Proprioception is your body’s ability to sense its movement and position in space.Β The lost sixth sense.

Imagine running blindfolded. Or withΒ numb feet. (done and done!)

Most of your sensory information during a run comes from proprioception.

Your visual and auditory senses will help you guide yourΒ run, but 70% of what you need to know (where to land, how much force to use, when to push forward,Β etc.) comes from your feet. SEVENTY percent.

That is why what is on your feet is so important:Β it isΒ the one thing between the world and your brain. It could really dumb your senses down a lot.

What do you think you would do better with, a blindfold or numb feet? WouldΒ you want to test it out?

boy_blindfolded_running

or

images

 

More on Running Biomechanics

Running Biomechanics Sessions

4 responses to “Running Biomechanics Tips – What is Proprioception and why is it important?”

  1. njpaleo Avatar

    That’s a BIG shoe! Sometimes I’ve felt as if I’m running with numb feet when it’s REALLY cold outside, and I run in the dark a lot….hmmmmm……

    Like

    1. emaiuolo Avatar

      yes, and it’s a bit scary, isn’t it? Have you noticed how your stride adjusts when you run in complete darkness? if not, try closing your eyes on the next straight stretch. you’ll see!

      Like

  2. runcoachg Avatar
    runcoachg

    This topic speaks to my inner dork… On the very surface, if runners were more aware of their proprioceptive feedback they would most likely be faster and face less injuries.

    Like

Leave a comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.