Physical Therapists Using Clinical Analysis To Discuss The Art And Science Behind Running and The Stuff We Put On Our Feet

Wednesday, June 19, 2019

Running Performance: Foot and Ankle Intrinsic Muscle Training

Zola Budd
Image from Liberal Dictionary of Zola Budd, known for racing and training barefoot.
She likely has/had good foot intrinsic muscle function doing all miles like that.

A great deal of focus in the rehab and performance world has been on core stability.  Core training is commonly prescribed or utilized to improve proximal stability, reduce supposedly abnormal movements of the spine and pelvis and a variety of other reasons.  I would go so far as to call this quite the fad in the fitness industry, as often the absurdness of the exercises can cause more issues than solutions (Sahrmann, 2010).  As anyone with a decent understanding of kinesiology will know, the key is balancing the movements from the larger extrinsic muscles with the stabilizing forces of the small intrinsic muscles.  For the longest time, core stability was considered to be the most important aspect of performance and contribution of the extrinsic muscles was largely downplayed.  Everything is important.  Balancing out the forces is key.  We know understand that everything is important.  Core stability is important to create a stable proximal foundation for the extrinsic muscles to generate appropriate force and movement.

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

361 FANTOM Multiple Tester Review


Matt:  The 361 Spinject remains one of my favorite simple neutral trainers.  A great fitting upper, a slightly wider base and a firm but responsive QU!KFOAM sole made for a versatile lightweight trainer that kept me going for miles on trails and road.  The Fantom is not an evolution of that shoe.  Per 361 it is a new shoe that replaces Spinject moving forward (although the spirit moves on).  The Fantom is 361's newest simple neutral trainer.  QU!KFOAM pods in the heel and forefoot remain with an all new knit mesh upper that provides a snug and breathable fit.  In a world of complex shoes, the Fantom is worth discussing.

Saturday, June 8, 2019

Brooks Ravenna 10 Review

The Brooks Ravenna 10 has gone through a major update.  After years of being fairly similar, the last two versions and been drastic overhauls.  From version 8 to 9, the Ravenna transformed into a fairly standard moderate stability shoe into a true lightweight stability shoe that could handle mileage and uptempo runs with ease.  The latest version sees a continuation of this trend.  A snugger fit, new stability system and a quick nimble ride continue the trend of being one of the top lightweight stability trainers on the market.


Monday, June 3, 2019

Hoka One One Evo Rehi Review

The Hoka One One Evo Rehi is the continued evolution of Hoka's road racing line.  From only the Tracer to now the Evo Carbon Rocket, Evo Rehi and (technically) the Carbon X (REVIEW).  Consistent with having multiple models that are different and similar at the same time, the Rocket and Rehi are both the choice for faster races and workouts, but have completely different rides.  The Rehi is the cushioned, flexible and super light Hoka ride, the likes of which are completely new to the market.  The ride and fit are very unique, and are certainly worth discussing and checking out.

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