Is running at a normal speed but quietly better for my bones?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the practice of running quietly, particularly focusing on the technique of landing on the balls of the feet and its potential effects on bone health. Participants explore various aspects of running styles, shoe types, and the implications of these practices on physical well-being.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their experience running quietly on a treadmill, noting that it made their calves sore and questions whether this is beneficial for their bones.
  • Another participant suggests consulting a gym instructor for proper running techniques and mentions that their energy transfer might be better for bone health.
  • A suggestion is made to look into "toe running," which involves landing on the balls of the feet, although concerns about the marketing of related shoes are raised.
  • Discussion includes a reference to a video on running shoes and mentions that "natural shoes" may feel more comfortable but do not have individual toe compartments.
  • Another participant notes the need for adaptation when switching to new running shoes, warning that failure to do so could lead to damage or stress on various parts of the body.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various viewpoints on the benefits and drawbacks of different running techniques and shoe types, indicating that multiple competing views remain without a clear consensus on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the need for adaptation to new running styles and shoes, suggesting that existing habits may influence the effectiveness and safety of new techniques.

treehouse
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I've been trying this out to distract people less. Yesterday I took it to a treadmill. It was nearly silent compared to the thuds I'm used to hearing with each footstep. At first I found it easiest to achieve this effect by stepping pretty much only with the balls of my feet. Then I found that I could bring my foot down beginning with the balls but smoothly coming down further later in the step to achieve even greater silence. It made my calves sore.

Is this good for my bones?
 
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treehouse said:
I've been trying this out to distract people less. Yesterday I took it to a treadmill. It was nearly silent compared to the thuds I'm used to hearing with each footstep. At first I found it easiest to achieve this effect by stepping pretty much only with the balls of my feet. Then I found that I could bring my foot down beginning with the balls but smoothly coming down further later in the step to achieve even greater silence. It made my calves sore.

Is this good for my bones?
Do you belong to a gym? Ask an instructor what the correct way to run on a treadmill is. They an also observe you and point out any mistakes you are making.
 
Evo said:
Do you belong to a gym? Ask an instructor what the correct way to run on a treadmill is. They an also observe you and point out any mistakes you are making.

That's a good idea. I think it may be that my energy isn't transferred all at once, which is probably better for my bones.
 
You might consider looking into "toe running", which is sort of a fad now. In fact, I think we had a thread on it here...I'll look into that. It sounds like that's what you're doing, by landing on the ball of your feet.

But "toe running" involves a new kind of shoe that is supposed to replicate running in bare feet. In my opinion, the info you find on it is rife with marketing BS - I have no idea if any of it is valid. So, caveat emptor as you do your research :biggrin:!

Everyone I know who has tried it says that at first, it really makes your calf muscles sore - just like you mentioned!Edit- here's that thread I mentioned:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=519494
 
A video on running shoes.

http://news.yahoo.com/video/health-15749655/top-tips-for-the-perfect-running-shoes-26532139.html#crsl=%252Fvideo%252Fhealth-15749655%252Fexpress-medical-centers-on-the-rise-26534910.html

These "natural shoes" do not appear have the individual toes, but just molded around toes, they might feel more natural, asd your toes aren't spalyed apart.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I recall seeing the thread about toe-running on this forum. I've had several people tell me that for running in straight lines the shoes are great but need an adaptation.

You're body is used to the traditional running shoes and you will have to run short distances or even wear them around the house in order to get used to them.

Failing to do so will cause damage or stress on parts of the foot, knees and hips. If i find the thread again I'll link it!

Found the thread I read earlier this week. https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=519494
 
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