Episode 2 - 5 Things I Wish All Runners Knew About Their Feet

Episode Summary:

In this episode, coinciding with the launch of the new program Foot and Ankle Fundamentals for Runners (now called The Foot Fix), the focus is on understanding the critical role your feet play in your running mechanics. If you've been struggling with persistent foot issues like plantar fasciitis, numbness, burning, tight calves, or even unresolved hip and pelvic floor pain, this episode is for you. The host explains how addressing the underlying causes of these symptoms through proper foot and ankle movement can lead to lasting relief and improved running performance.

Throughout the episode, you'll learn the top five things every runner should know about their feet, including the importance of pronation and supination, rotational mechanics, and the role of footwear. The discussion emphasizes that while the right shoe is important, it is not a cure-all—training your feet to move well is key to supporting the rest of your body and avoiding injuries.

Key Takeaways:

• Pronation and Supination as Actions: These are dynamic actions, not just static positions, essential for effective running mechanics. Proper pronation and supination allow your foot to adapt to the ground and push off efficiently.
• Rotational Mechanics: Pronation and supination are actually rotations in the foot. True pronation involves internal rotation and lengthening of the foot, while supination involves external rotation and shortening of the foot.
• The “Overpronation” Misconception: Overpronation is often a sign that the foot is not truly pronating. Understanding true pronation is crucial for preventing related injuries and improving running form.
• The Whole Body Connection: Foot movement is interconnected with the rest of your body. Issues like plantar fasciitis or "sleepy glutes" may be resolved by addressing how your feet move and interact with the rest of your biomechanics.
• Shoe Selection is Important but Not Everything: The right shoe can help, but it won't solve all your problems. Focus on shoes that allow your foot to function naturally, and don't rely solely on footwear to address running issues.

If you're ready to stop managing symptoms and start addressing the root cause, check out the Foot & Ankle Fundamentals for Runners program in the resources below.

Time Stamps:

[00:00] - Introduction of Foot & Ankle Fundamentals for Runners

[03:34] - Pronation and Supination as Actions

[05:37] - Rotational Mechanics

[07:21] - The “Overpronation” Misconception

[09:45] - The Whole Body Connection

[13:15] - Shoe Selection

[21:26] - Wrap-Up & Closing Thoughts

Resources Mentioned:

• The Foot Fix: Ditch those frustrating foot symptom flare ups for good by addressing the underlying cause! 

Quotes:

“Your feet were made to sense the ground and move. Instead of just putting them in the air quotes, right shoe and telling them to STFU, let's actually train them to move well, handle the load of running, support the rest of your body as they do.”

“...things like plantar fasciitis and Achilles issues are not just foot and ankle problems. They are full body problems.”

Follow Along Between Episodes on Instagram and if you enjoyed this episode please give a share and tag me in your stories!