For the A-skip, skip with high knees. As you bring your leg down, finish with a slight pawing motion as you pull backwards. This pawing motion is often neglected, but is a key element of a powerful stride. Use the same arm motion during this drill as you use while running. More running drills: … [Read more...] about Video: A Skip
Drills
Video: B Skip
The B skip is nearly identical to the A skip, but first extends the leg forward. This extension of the leg dynamically stretches the hamstring and then allows you to really emphasize the backward pawing motion as your foot lands on the ground and pulls through. Get into the rhythm of the A and B skips by listening to the pattern of sound your feet make as they contact and scuff … [Read more...] about Video: B Skip
Video: Butt Kick Drill
The butt kick drill further conditions and coordinates the glutes and hamstrings for a strong running stride. Pull your heels up directly beneath you, keeping the knee, heel and toe up throughout the drill. Use the same arm motion during this drill as you use while running. More running drills: … [Read more...] about Video: Butt Kick Drill
Video: High Knee Drill
The high knee drill works the loading phase of the run. The key to performing the drill correctly is to focus on driving the foot down and letting it spring back up off the ground (rather than lifting the knees). Use the same arm motion during this drill as you use while running. More running drills: … [Read more...] about Video: High Knee Drill
Video: Straight Leg Run
The straight leg run is like the straight leg walk used during your dynamic warm up, only this time you are running. The straight leg run reinforces the important pawing motion practiced in the A-skip and B-skip. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed. Avoid the temptation to lean backwards—in other words, keep your upper body perpendicular to the ground as you run with … [Read more...] about Video: Straight Leg Run