The key to getting faster times when running is to have good running form. A good running form will help you use less energy, which will in turn result in faster times and reduced injuries!

The Importance of Good Running Form

Running form is an important part of running and can help you run faster and more efficiently. Proper running form can prevent injuries and can make you capable of running longer distances with less wear on your body.

READ: 8 Tips to Prevent Injuries When You Are Running

There are a number of ways that you can improve your running form. We have listed some of them below.

1. Don't overthink it

While it is true that good form should be simple and efficient, there is no need to overcomplicate things. Most importantly, focus on keeping your body in line as you run – this will help you achieve the most efficient running form.

2. Keep your core engaged

When you focus on keeping your core engaged while running, you'll help increase speed and efficiency. Engaging your core muscles will stabilize your spine and pelvis, allowing you to move more quickly through the ground. Stay focused on achieving good form through these simple tips, and soon you'll be able to run faster than ever before!

3. Stay connected to the ground

To improve your running form and speed, you must stay connected to the ground. By keeping your feet rooted to the ground, you will be able to run faster and with more control while minimizing the risk of injuries. Feel your feet landing directly underneath you and now over striding. Having someone videotape you and review your running form can be very beneficial.

4. Keep your arms and legs straight

Keeping your arms and legs straight will help you maintain your balance and avoid injuries. Additionally, running in a straight line will help you avoid unnecessary energy expenditures.

5. Use your abs and glutes to power yourself forward

When you run, your legs power your body forward. However, you can run faster if you use your abs and glutes to help power yourself forward. Abs work to stabilize your spine and keep you upright, while glutes provide the bulk and power to push off the ground. When working together, these muscles can help propel you forward with greater speed and efficiency.

6. Land with a mid-foot strike

Landing with a mid-foot strike is the most efficient way to run. Mid-foot strikers use less energy and cover more ground than other runners because they are able to use their entire foot.

Running on the balls of your feet allows you to move more weight through your heel, which gives you a faster pace. Additionally, landing with a bit of a heel strike engages your quadriceps and calf muscles, which helps you maintain your momentum.

And make sure to check the Ultimate Guide to Running Shoes to make sure you've got the best fit for your feet and mileage.

7. Keep your eyes level with the horizon (don't look down)

Running with your eyes level with the horizon allows you to focus on your running. When you look down, you unconsciously tilt your pelvis and shoulders forward, which makes you run slower. Keeping your eyes level with the horizon helps keep everything in balance and ensures that you are running at your best.

8. Take shorter strides

One of the most common mistakes people make when running is taking too long strides. When you take a long stride, you are essentially putting more energy into each footstep than necessary, which can slow you down significantly. Instead, try to take shorter strides that use more of your body weight and less energy. 

A great way to understand your running cadence (steps per minute/SPM). For most runners being in the cadence range of 170 - 180 SPM improves your running economy. This will help you run faster with less effort and ultimately improve your fitness level.

Form and Function

When running, your body is designed to move as far and as fast as possible. However, if your form is flawed, your body will not be able to deliver the power and speed you need to run a successful race. By following the tips in this article, you can improve your running form and get faster times.