Started running and hearing terms like pronation or overpronation? As seasoned runners know, understanding your foot's natural movement is key to injury prevention and optimal performance.
Pronation is the inward roll of your foot upon landing, which absorbs shock and distributes impact forces during walking or running.
Underpronation
Your heel strikes the ground at a steeper outward angle, forcing your lower legs to handle more shock. Common in those with high arches.
Neutral pronation
The foot lands on the outer heel and rolls inward just enough to cushion impact. This ideal pattern minimizes injury risk.
Overpronation
Prevalent with low arches or flat feet, the foot rolls inward excessively, shifting weight too far to the inner side.
How to identify your pronation
Examine wear on your old running shoes: outer sole wear signals underpronation; inner wear points to overpronation. A specialist running store can analyze your gait and recommend the best shoes.
