Running Technique Coaching
Are you looking to improve your running? Perhaps you are aiming for a new PB, are taking on a new distance, or just want to avoid injury and keep enjoying your runs!
Using The Running School® methodology, you will be coached by a Certified Running Technique Specialist to Move Better, Run Better and then Run Faster. Wondering what this looks like? Scroll down to see!
Click the video to watch
What does it involve?
Initial Assessment
We start with a Biomechanical Movement Analysis (BMA) and Functional Movement Assessment FMA) to review how you are moving and running currently, and identify areas where we can  improve.
Strength, Activation, Mobility
Alongside your homework runs and DMS, you may be given strength, activation and mobility exercises to do. Â These will be introduced in your sessions and will be tailored to your individual objectives.
Dynamic Movement Skills
To run better, we need to move better, and so we work on Dynamic Movement Skills (DMS) to improve coordination, agility and quickness. Â These feature in every session and also homework!
Homework!
In between sessions you will be given a structured plan to follow with homework runs, DMS, and any agreed exercises. Â Frequency will be determined by your schedule and goals
Running Technique Coaching
To introduce the new technique you will be coached on a treadmill initially, using accelerated learning methods to grasp the new movement patterns. Â As you progress we refine your technique as it becomes natural.
Progress Review
At the end of your first 6 sessions we will redo your BMA to review your progress - highlighting achievements and noting any areas we can still work on to progress further.
Our Services
Success Stories
Helen
A relatively new runner, Helen had struggled with ankle sprains, right hip pain and swelling in the past along with some plantar fascia discomfort. She was spending a lot of time on the ground, which meant her body and joints were dealing with increased braking forces and running often felt hard. Along with implementing a stronger leg cycle and arm swing, we focused on Helen’s dynamic movement skills and posterior chain activation and she now looks a completely different runner - strong and confident with a half marathon under her belt and training for her first triathlon!
Joe
Before starting to train for his first marathon in London, Joe came for coaching to address some hip flexor and groin pain he’d been experiencing before starting to up his running volume. We focused on his running economy addressing the overstride and low heel lift to spend more ‘free time' in the air and implemented a more efficient arm swing. Joe’s homework was integrated with a full training plan to increase mileage and intensity strategically, he’s looking forward to running London and enjoying his first marathon!
Rachael
Rachael started Running Technique coaching before training for her 3rd marathon in Paris. She’d previously suffered with hip stiffness and plantar fasciitis and wanted running to feel good so she could fully enjoy the events she was doing. We noticed an overstride and some pelvic instability, which was contributing to the legs crossing over and hip drop on both sides - both of which were putting extra pressure on the hips and knees. Addressing the heel cycle and arm swing helped to address this, and Rachael had a wonderful run in Paris - and is now training for Chicago!
Richard
"Before coaching I had done a few ultramarathons (mid-life crisis) but knees were suffering. Main aim was to be able to keep running and minimise risk of serious injury. Vic is a great coach - friendly and sympathetic, but sets high standards - and I made more progress than I had anticipated."
Richard completed the Long Mynd Hike (50 miles) shortly after completing coaching, and is now back to training for even longer distances!
Cassie
A Hyrox athlete wanting to improve (and enjoy!) her running, Cassie came to coaching with discomfort around her back and feeling that her running was holding her Hyrox event performance back. She already did plenty of strength training, so we identified some hip mobility and glute activation exercises that along with a stronger heel cycle would help her to run more strongly and for it to feel easier! In events since Cassie’s running has been a highlight and she’s even been enjoying some longer trail runs too!
Sam
"We jumped at the chance for Sam to fine tune his technique as he needs all the speed he can get playing for Newtown AFC. I was so impressed with the sessions, they were individualised, focused and produced a stunning result in 6 sessions. The difference in Sam's technique is clear to see. He scored a hat-trick in each of his last 2 matches and I really feel that the course has uplevelled his running and dynamic movement skills. Thanks Vic!" - Liz (parent)
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Will it improve my performance in other sports?The Running School® methodology has benefitted triathletes, footballers, tennis players... and many other sportspeople too. We focus on dynamic movement skills alongside the running technique, helping to build agility and multi-directional speed. Sessions and homework are tailored to your individual schedule and goals.
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I've been injured. Are the sessions suitable for me?You will need to be cleared as ready to run by your physio/doctor, however as the technique is coached in short intervals this is a great way to return to running safely. As we complete a full movement analysis before starting, we can also identify opportunities to improve strength and mobility to support your injury resilience for future!
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Do you coach children?Yes! Running Technique coaching can start at age 6 upwards, and helps to develop the coordination and agility needed to build confidence and capability in other sports, as well as building speed for junior athletes. Sessions can be individual or in groups and are designed to be fun, with interactive games and balance!