Knee pain is the number one injury that sidelines runners. Specifically, most runners experience nagging pain in the front of their knees. With the high prevalence of this condition, these study findings are very exciting.

Runners who lean forward about 25 degrees at the trunk while running had a significant decrease in stress over the patellofemoral joint (knee cap). This was compared to runners who ran with a vertical trunk or a slight backwards lean.

If you are struggling with knee pain and running try this:

1. Lean forward from your ankles and “fall” into the start of your run.
2. Focus on landing with your feet underneath or slightly behind your body with each step. If your feet land way out in front of you, you are not leaning forward.
3. When running, think about pushing the ground behind you with each step. This will help you stay in that forward position.