jdlundberg

I've been doing a fair bit of research about proper running technique, and each article I read leaves me more confused than the last. Some say that heel striking is a no-no; others say that heel-striking is okay as long as you don't overstride. I've been working on proper technique since I'm a beginner runner and don't want to develop bad habits early on. I heel strike, but I don't feel like I overstride. I need to get some footage or something of me running to confirm that, but I'll occasionally glance down to see how my stride is, and it looks like I'm landing with my body pretty much over my foot. So, I guess my question is, what have you all learned from experience/coaching/etc.? Does foot-strike really make a huge difference as long as you're not overstriding? If so, how have you worked to switch from a heel-strike to a midfoot- or forefoot-strike? I've tried forcing a midfoot-strike when I run, but it really doesn't feel natural at all.

Hi everyone, my name is Jonathan, and I admit it, I am a couch potato. Most of my time is normally spent watching Netflix with my wonderful new wife, and I work in IT Security, so most of my work day also includes sitting in front of a computer screen. I'm what the medical field refers to as obese. I'm 28 years old, 6'3", and 317 lbs. Just last week for Thanksgiving, my wife and I went to visit her family and we had a Turkey Bowl (American football game in honor of the holiday, for those outside of the US). I couldn't keep up like I used to back in my prime. I was struggling, and I decided it was time to take control of my life back. I was going to wait until the New Year to start, but I knew I wouldn't do it if I waited a whole month the start. So here I am. Looking forward to this journey!