Footstrike patterns

Footstrike patterns describe how your foot hits the ground when running. There are mainly three types: heel strike, where the heel makes contact first; midfoot strike, where the middle of the foot touches down simultaneously; and forefoot strike, where the ball of the foot hits first. Each pattern affects impact forces, running efficiency, and injury risk differently. Heel striking is common among recreational runners, while midfoot and forefoot strikes are often seen in sprinters or barefoot runners. Understanding your footstrike can help optimize technique and reduce injury.