I think my stride is messing me up?

Question

I watched a video of myself running, and I realized that I have a bigger and slower stride than most people, but it is not too noticable.... I am pretty fast but do you think my stride is messing me up? Taking lots of strides makes me so frustrated, but if need be I will change it... should I?

My question is:
I am already fast but could I get faster by changing it?

In track I do the 800 and the Mile the most often, and sometimes the 3200, and in xc i do 5000 meters

Answer 1

It really depends on what distance you are running. I'm assuming you're a short distance/mid distance runner. Traditional assumptions are that people with a shorter stride are faster. But it is extremely hard to revamp your natural running stride. It may also hurt you because you'll be concentrating on your stride as opposed to race strategy. I would recommend working on a faster turnover rate as opposed to your stride length. Resistance training would be the key. Try running in a pool and increasing your forward and back kick. Or also running with a sled/small parachute will also help leg strength. Remember, people always say that individuals are doing things wrong but they may still run fast. Past critics had always told Michael Johnson, he couldn't run fast because of his upright running style. He still holds the world records for the 200m and 400m.

Good luck!

Answer 2

If you are running sprints a 100/200M stride frequency is important. Speed is all about quick turnover and efficient movement.
Overspeed Running can give gains for Maximum speed. If you can train your brain to get used to a higher cadence you will have it without too much problem. Overspeed can be done by running down a very slight slope, running with an assisting wind or by being towed over 40m.
Down Hill Sprints (Over speed training)
Down hill speed and agility drills help to develop leg speed and co-ordination. This is sometimes referred to as over-speed training. Keep the distance short (10-15 meters) and make sure the hill is only slight.
An alternative method of over-speed training is to use elastic cords. An Over-Speed Trainer consists of a pulley system to provide a smooth build up of speed. It enables the sprinter to move at a rate greater than 100% of their usual top speed. It can also be used to provide resistance much like uphill sprints.

Also
To optimize speed over 100m means conserving ability by decreasing cadence early in the race.
Big straighter arm swings and big full extension pushing steps for as far as possible decrease cadence early and allow athletes to maintain higher cadences later in the race. increase stride frequency even further and allow stride length to shorten to minimize overstriding. You may have noticed some sprinters look to be running faster at the end, it is the increased cadence that you have noticed not the loss of stride length.

Plus you need to build up your glutes

Answer 3

If your stride is long thats the best for you because where you run long distance if you take shorter strides you use more energy and depending on how long your stride is means you can out stride your comp. But test what stride works for you. but in long distance the longer the stride the better.

Answer 4

The best thing you can do to wreck your stride is to try and change it!

Let your run be natural! Your longer stride just "eats up" the distance. Don't try to run like anyone else. Jim Ryun's coach tried to break him of that head wobble thing....thank God he didn't manage to do it.