Question about using your arms when running?

Question

At the beginning of the season i was yelled at for not using my arms much. Now i use them alot. Then my indoor track coach tell me that i should not use them as much because it drains my energy, and keep them closer to my hips. now it feels like im barely moving my arms, and I ran slower. He is a nice guy and i dont want to come off as rude if hes wrong...but im not sure if he is or not. I watch the olympics and the runners use their arms as much as i do (5k's)

Answer 1

You gotta know when to use your arms a lot verses when not too. Remember, the faster you move your arms, the faster your legs go. But that also takes more energy. Listen to your coach, tell him your dilemma. Talk with the assistant coaches also, get their feedback. It will all come together. Good luck.

Answer 2

You should move your arms as much is comfortable. As long as they are not flailing out to the sides and your not severely exagerating the motion, keep doing what your doing.

In indoor track, runner shorter strides tend to have an advantage, and some runners shorten up their arm motion around the tight indoor turns. That is probably where your coach is coming from.

But you should not drastically change your form just because you are running indoors.

Answer 3

Good question !! And I am sorry you have this delimma.

But unfortunately you don't tell us what distance you run. Fact is, the shorter the race, the more you need to use your upper body strength. This upper body strength is summed thru the arms and shoulders. So the shorter the race, the more you need your arms. This holds true up to about the mile, after which, it depends more on running ability and other factors.

As to the political situation, YOU should decide what your running syle is and how you can generate the best speed. Sure, it's good to get points of view and try to adjust when warranted, but if you run faster using your arms, then I'd use my arms.

Good Luck

Answer 4

Your arms are used to counteract your leg movements. If you don't use them at all, while running, you spend energy keeping your body straight. Amount of movement is slightly different for each person. So you have to find a point where it is most comfortable for you, and you get your best time and distance.

Answer 5

well if you keep your arms perfectly stiff..they will cramp up on you.

Your arms should kind of flow fluidly with the rest of your body.Like a natural movement, you shouldn't be exerting effort to move them or keep them still.