What I learned in Vegas: Biomechanics

(With my roommate Christian & 2 time Olympian J.C. from Lebanon)

Tip Number V: Biomechanics  Why are biomechanics important?  Why do drills?  That's an easy answer...because the goal is to run faster!!  If you could run faster with less effort, why wouldn't you?  Here are two things to keep in mind. 1st = Any improvement you make in the first four weeks is due to neromuscular connections/improvement.  Drills reteach your body how to function at it's optimal economy if done correctly.  2nd = When the going gets tough, say in a race, the body resorts back to what it knows.  By teaching your body what you want it to do day in and day out correctly, your brain will tell your muscles what to do when fatigue sets in.

Other things to keep in mind:

1. Your running economy will improve naturally with training.  The best thing for running is...running!
2. Work on keeping a neutral pelvic tilt.  Dynamic drills, hip mobility drills, hurdle drills, good posture and yoga will help stabilize and improve your pelvic strength and flexibility.
3. Keep the foot dorsiflexed during drills.  (Keep the toe pointed up during all dynamic drills.)
4. Drive back with the elbows while running.  For every action there is a reaction and driving the elbows back will help with your knee lift.