Movement Variability for Runners with Dr. Jesse Riley
It's obvious that running is a very uni-planar movement that rarely, if ever, consists of lateral or rotational movements. Yes, a variety of muscles are functioning simultaneously to propel the body and stabilize it's position. But, compared to field sports there is no variability. This can often become a problem which contributes to poor performance, chronic overuse injuries, limitations in flexibility/mobility, and specific muscular imbalances.
So, what's the solution?
Moving in multiple planes of motion is essential for runners. In fact, it should be part of their daily routine, whether being in the dynamic warm-up or functional training program.
When runners implement more movement variability, it helps create a versatile and resilient foundation. This is due to targeting various muscles that are often under-utilized and/or weak from only moving in the sagittal plane.
What you need to realize is that our body responds to the stimulus placed upon it. If we only train one way, our body will strengthen and reinforce that one activity.
This is good to a certain point...
Once we lose balance within the kinetic chain, our movement quality and performance quickly suffer. It's only a matter of time until we notice a decrease in performance and some nagging ache or pain.
I had the chance to speak with local chiropractor and movement specialist, Dr. Riley. It was great to get his take on movement variability for runners, as well as run him through some multi-planar movements.