What factors can affect how I run?
Running is an asymmetrical activity. It is asymmetrical in that one leg is in contact with the ground while the opposite leg is off the ground. Several factors influence the quality of left and right stance phase running performance. They are muscle physiology, postural asymmetries (foot structure, leg lengths, spinal curvature and shoulder height) body mass, fitness level (endurance, muscle strength), previous injury, running environment, and shoe type. Postural asymmetry is one factor that determines how a person uses the right and left sides of their bodies during daily activities. These imbalances can affect running form. Observable patterns of asymmetries can be observed through video analysis.
During right and left middle stance phases of running, this runner demonstrates breakdown in the frontal plane, his waistline is dropping. He achieves leveling of his waistline at terminal stance through compensation in his spine and at his right shoulder girdle.
Asymmetry can be observed in this runner during right and left terminal stance phase of running. During Right terminal stance the runner is better position to make contact with her left foot. Her left knee and leg are positioned out in front of the pelvis, her pelvis is rotating to the right and her abdominal region is more upright and stable. During left terminal stance the runner’s abdominal pelvis is still rotated to the right, we can see both stripes are more visible in this picture compared to the other side. During left stance the runner’s right leg muscles and joints are not positioned optimally for right foot initial contact with the ground.