Why Heel Striking and Pushing Off Are Not the Answer

In this episode of the RunRx Podcast, Coach Caroline and Coach Valerie unpack a common piece of movement advice that does not line up with the RunRx method: reaching with the heel, pushing off with the back foot, and driving through the big toe. Valerie explains why that advice may make sense in a rehab setting, but does not match how she teaches running and walking as natural movement patterns. She breaks down the difference between physical therapy, chiropractic care, and running technique, and why each has a different job in helping the body move well.

Valerie also explains the core of the RunRx approach: running and walking should minimize active muscle contraction and reduce unnecessary load, not add more pushing, reaching, and forcing the foot into the ground. She describes how the primary force of movement is gravity, followed by ground reaction force and muscle elasticity, and why lifting up and pulling the foot up is a more natural way to move than trying to create motion through effort and push-off. The conversation also touches on why the Pose method reduces stress on the knee and full body by 53%, and why so many runners still get stuck in movement habits that keep them in pain.

The biggest takeaway: test movement in the right pattern, then let your physio or chiropractor help with the muscle and bone side of recovery. RunRx teaches running and walking as skills, with conscious language, natural motion, and less strain on the joints. If you have been told to push, reach, or force your foot placement, this episode will help you rethink what efficient movement really looks like.

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