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The best way to teach correct athletic running technique to children is also the best way to teach an adult. You simply need to film a short clip of the child running in a straight line. You will need to make sure you are able to see first a profile of the running technique (from the side). Next you will need to film the child running straight toward the camera from about 50 meters away until they reach the camera.

Once you have watched the subject run and also viewed the film, it is time to show the child the film. Ask the child what he or she sees on the film and what looks correct versus incorrect. You may be surprised by the commentary provided by the child. Since you never get to see yourself run, most runners aren't aware of minor inefficiencies in their technique until soreness or an injury occurs.
Once you are watching the film, you need to watch for a few basic characteristics:
1) Steady, even stride
2) Straight feet
3) Direct, vertical movement of the knees
4) Smooth, limited movement of the arms
5) Elbows tucked in line with wrists
6) Steady breathing
7) Relaxed, but not wobbly head and neck

If you happen to notice several of these items are wrong, it is critical that you only address ONE issue at a time. Each time you make a change in a person's stride, it will have an impact on other components of the technique, so it is important to isolate changes by making them one at a time.

Armed with this information, you should be ready for an initial evaluation of any runner's technique.

Learn more about this author, Trip Todd.
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