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Alexander Technique Tips on Running

November 1, 2009

By Karen DeHart, The Alexander Technique with Karen DeHart LLC

The Alexander Technique, a method for improving posture and ease of movement, can enhance the training and enjoyment of runners. The Technique enlivens the way you think, the way you move, and the way you feel. It teaches awareness in activity and repose and affirms the unity of mind and body. This can mean having a freer neck, a more relaxed back, and loosened limbs. For the runner, it can reduce stress and allow more space to breathe.

Here are some specific Alexander Technique thoughts for runners:

  • Look up! Let your eyes focus softly on the landscape around you. See the world, enjoy the view. Looking down at the ground when you run pulls your head off balance and makes you work harder.  Looking up contributes to length and helps to keep you in the moment.  The more present you are, the more you can adapt to both internal and external stimuli.
  • Put your earbuds in your pocket and listen to the sounds of the world around you.  It’s easier to run when your senses are engaged in what you are doing.
  • Let your neck be free so that the weight of your head can rebalance forward and upward, leading your back into length and width.  Allow yourself to expand as you run; don’t pull yourself down.
  • Let your ankle be free and release the back of your knee to allow the thigh to swing the leg forward into movement.

You may wish to schedule a few lessons to learn how your posture can support freedom and buoyancy in running and all of your activities.

*Great reading for runners: Master the Art of Running Raise your Performance with the Alexander Technique, by Malcolm Balk and Andrew Shields

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