August 13, 2012

Lawrence LeBlond for redOrbit.com Your Universe Online

When it comes to modern era distance running, experts have mixed opinions: some say humans are born to run while others say our bodies need careful cross training to stay healthy. Jay Dicharry, author of the new book Anatomy for Runners, believes running alone cannot make you a better runner.

Running is typically a one-dimensional sport, said Dicharry, a physical therapist and the director of Biomechanics at Rebound Physical Therapy in Bend, Oregon. Youre basically just moving forward. Youre not really developing as a true athlete.

Because many people do not take training into mind when running, nearly a third get hurt every single year. When they read fitness magazines, they say I can do that. So they go out and do it, and then they get hurt and wonder why, said Dicharry. If we prepare ourselves well do a better job.

In his book, Dicharry focuses on identifying weaknesses, offers detailed tools for gait analysis, offers tips on preventing injuries, and explains how to exercise in a correct manner that aids the running body.

While many books focus on the cardiovascular system (engine) in regards to the runner, Dicharrys book focuses on the biomechanical body (chassis).

Coaches get lots of information on how to train the heart and lungs. But we dont get enough on how to keep the body healthy, he said. The more stable the chassis, the more efficient you can be. The book focuses on whats wrong and how to fix it.

Robert Forster, an expert in sports physical therapy in Santa Monica, California, said the human body has evolved to run.

Our tree-dwelling ancestors had shorter legs, longer arms and shorter feet. The body actually changed to be effective at running. But we lost our ability to co-opt that economy of motion, Forster, told Reuters by telephone from London, where he had been working with the US Olympic Track and Field team.

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Anatomy Of Running Focuses On Biomechanics Of The Body