Running tip number 5 is for runners who are just getting started. Coach Tadris Parker has personally tested this recommendation and a hundred other health tips commonly shared in the running and fitness world. Listen to the audio clip below to hear his take on this one piece of health advice: “Adopt a relaxed running posture.” Learn all about this at Keep Calm and Run To The Best You!

“When running, let your jaw hang loose, don’t bunch up your shoulders close to your ears, and occasionally shake out your hands and arms to stay relaxed.” —Dave Martin, Ph.D., exercise physiologist

Tip 5. Adopt a relaxed running posture (running)

There are two types of runners. First, we have the ones who use running to decompress and relax and clear their heads. Then, there’s the type who treats running like a physically intense sport. Your philosophy on running will be reflected in your form, and so will your personality.

Let’s talk about personality for a minute. How do you carry yourself in everyday life? Some people are more loose and laid back, very casual, and you can see this as they comfortably walk and stand. If that’s you, maybe you need to straighten your spine and pick up your head as you run. On the other hand, if you are more tightly wound and your body is usually tense, take care to relax your muscles and uncurl your fists. Check yourself every so often because you’ll be inclined to tighten up again throughout your run.

Evaluate your running posture

If you’re not sure which type of runner you are, analyze your shadow on the ground next time you’re running parallel to the sunshine. Or, ask someone to record a video of you jogging a lap. Do your best to run naturally for this purpose and do not correct yourself until you’ve captured your authentic, natural form. It’s helpful to know whether you’re holding a relaxed posture or if you’re tensed up and stiff. Pay attention to how your feet strike the ground and whether you’re leaning back or falling forward. Take note of your hands and how you’re supporting your arms. Consider how you’re breathing and pacing yourself. Collect all of the “data”!

Last year, Coach Tadris Parker invited a physical therapist, Christina Juliano, to evaluate our Run/Walk Club members. She gave them tips to improve their running. Sometimes, a minor adjustment is all it takes to improve speed and increase endurance. You can benefit so much from studying your own form. The posture and pacing you have adopted over time may be working against you. There’s only one way to find out. If you don’t know what you’re looking for or how to self-adjust, ask a professional to observe you.

If you’re thinking about hiring a running coach, first check out what Katie G. had to say. Katie trained under Coach Tadris for over 3 years as a member of Keep Calm And Run To The Best You. (Here is a short video interview with Katie G.)

Why does posture matter?

This running tip from Dr. Dave. Martin is a dependable piece of advice. He was hailed as the “marathon physiology expert” of his day, paying close attention to the human body and its response to running under a variety of conditions, in particular, the impact of hydration and breathing technique. In his 2007 interview with Runner’s World magazine, he explained the importance of form:

“A lot of athletes will talk to me about minimizing slowing down at the end of a race,” says Martin. “I tell them it’s the same thing as doing a VO2 max test on the treadmill — quicken your stride, lower your shoulders, think form — really just instructions to relax. You’ll use less oxygen if you’re running smoother, so you can run faster.” 

For more info about breathing and how to avoid getting into oxygen debt, here’s an oldie but goodie we pulled from the Keep Calm and Run To The Best You archives: Episode #83 Stay On Pace (How to pace yourself when running)

Self-awareness is key

Beyond his marathon achievements, Dave Martin was a five-time men’s senior Team USA leader at the IAAF World Cross Country Championships. Dr. Dave Martin passed away at the age of 78 after a battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was quoted as saying “Runner, know thyself.” This simple phrase is a reminder to be self aware, and consider the posture you have when running. Listen to your body and be wise to adapt when necessary. Being mindful is something that Coach Tadris Parker preaches about every single week, whether it’s to train people on running, intermittent fasting, or weight loss. Work hard at being self-aware and do what it takes, runner, to really “know thyself.” No matter what kind of day you’re having, remember to keep calm and run with a relaxed posture!

At Keep Calm and Run To The Best You, we are actively helping people from all walks of life to get healthier and happier in the body they’ve got! We’ve collected advice from professionals, combed through archives, and gathered insights from our group members. Click here to see the rest of our 101 health tips about running, intermittent fasting, and weight loss.

Train for your next running event

Coach Tadris Parker trains athletes at all levels for local or virtual running events.

Email coachtadris@gmail.com with questions about our Run/Walk Club, running events, or health programs.

If you’re serious about running or walking to improve your overall health, join our Run/Walk club and let’s do this together!

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