What Is the Difference Between Falling and Leaning?

Could elite runners like Kipchoge really be falling, not leaning, when they run? Tune in and find out!

Timestamps of big takeaways

[00:22] Opening With a Flub

Coach Caroline hilariously fumbles the question, mixing up "running and leaning" with "falling and leaning" - but don't worry, Coach Valerie's got her back!

[00:39] Falling or Running? It’s Both!

Learn why running can be described as "free falling" and how this mindset makes running more enjoyable. We also discuss the fundamental difference between falling and leaning.

[01:15] The Three Elements: Pose, Fall, Pull

When you're in the running pose, you're balanced, then fall out of balance, and pull your foot to regain balance.

[02:58] Breaking Your Balance Habits

It feels unnatural at first - you spend all day resisting falling, so intentionally getting out of balance for running requires a mental shift.

[03:54] The Role of Your Head Position

Your head is the heaviest part of your body. So, keeping your ears, shoulders, and hips in line is critical. The fall happens from your center of mass.

[05:31] Impact and Injuries

Speed and distance often trigger injuries — it's all about balance. When you're out of balance, you spend too much time on the ground, increasing impact.

[07:14] The Ball on Table Analogy

Picture your body as a ball on a tilted table — you don't need to bend forward or back, just stay aligned and let gravity do the work at any speed you choose.

[08:54] The Science of Fall Angles

We discuss the fascinating range of fall angles: from Usain Bolt's 21 degrees to Kipchoge's 18.4 degrees for marathon pace.

[10:26] Measuring Your Progress

A gait analysis can reveal your current fall angle and ground contact time, helping you track improvements in your running technique over time.

[11:50] Membership and Pricing Details

Here we break down the value of RunRX membership. Wanna run pain free? Join us!

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