Difference That a Running Surface Can Make
Health & Fitness October 19th, 2009
When it comes to the type of surface that runs on the most important element is the amount of shock absorption that the land offers.
Now simply because something is super shock absorber does’nt make it the most ideal tread. For instance, several people like to run on the beaches, as it is a very smooth surface, but it also takes much more energy to run on sand, as they sink into the sand while running.
Most traditional surface materials for running are the sidewalks and asphalt streets. If you’ve the option, the asphalt streets are actually a better choice as they’re softer compared to the impact of concrete sidewalks. It may not be able to feel the difference when running on the two, but over long distances, your body will certainly be able to feel the difference.
In addition to the material that a running surface is formed of, other factor that makes a difference while running is if the terrain you run on is slanted or banked. Running on a banked surface in single direction or another is normal as several roads and pathways in Houston are designed this way to assist them drain properly. The issue with running on a banked surface is that you get an uneven distribution of force and work that’s put onto each leg.
If you know you’re running on an incline then one thing to remember is make sure you are running on a return path of execution and not a circular path. If you’re running in a circle, then the same leg is always having more weight and do more work than the other leg. At the end of your run, your legs have taken in the same workout that minimize the risk of injury. Make a conscious effort to run on a flat surface that has the best shock absorption is important to consider each race.