Are Your Legs Different Lengths?

From early in the development process, the body's two halves develop independently. As they develop, usually they will be very similar and almost identical. But since they are independent, each individual has eyes that are different sizes, nostrils that are different sizes and ears that are different sizes. This difference can also be seen in different size feet and legs. In many individuals this may be without problems, but in a runner this matters.

Which foot is larger?
- When fitting shoes, ensure that you know which foot is larger and fit that foot especially. A shoe that is too small (even for one foot) will predispose a runner to more injuries from loss of toenails, to ingrown toenails, to blisters and even stress fractures. Check your feet and fit both feet to the shoes, especially the larger foot.

Which leg is longer?
- If the leg length difference is only minor, you will often not notice any difference and can continue to run without difficulty.
- If one leg is longer, it is important to understand this and modify your training as necessary. Do you need a heel lift to even the legs and reduce the pronation force on the shorter leg? Do you need to switch sides of the road you run on so the longer leg is on the down side of the road? Is the pain you currently have when running due to the leg length difference.

Although these differences are normal, injury and pain can be the result of not recognizing even the smallest foot or leg length differences.

For additional information on leg length differences, visit Dr Gibson's blog at www.UtahRunDoc.Blogspot.com or his website at www.UtahFootDoc.com.

Training for a Half Marathon

Half marathons are a very popular length race to run. For those runners who are well trained, hard-core athletes the half marathon has its appeal because it can help train them for a full marathon. Many training schedules include a half marathon as one of its long runs in order to help get an athlete in prime condition for a marathon. In fact some marathons will even take half marathon times for qualification for a starting corral.

For other runners who are maybe just getting into running, very young or very old, or people who don't have as much time to train, a half marathon has an appeal for an entirely different reason. For the beginners a half marathon is seen as a reachable goal. Many new runners may be overwhelmed by how far a marathon is, but the option of running a half marathon seems to be a much more feasible, yet still respectable goal. For those people who fall into the category of being very young or very old, a half marathon is a popular option to prevent them from getting injured by attempting to run a full marathon.

Whether you are the well trained athlete, the beginner, or on either end of the age spectrum there are some things about training for and racing a half marathon that apply to all runners. First, always pick a training schedule that is right for your experience level. There are many free training programs out there that range from beginner to expert. It is important to use these schedules in order to know that you are not over working your body too quickly and making sure you get the right amount of rest that your body requires to replenish its essential chemicals. Second, it is important to always stretch before and after each run to help prevent injuries from occurring. Third, remember that the more that you run the more you must eat and drink to compensate for the extra calories and sweat you’re burning. Lastly, make sure you have a good pair of running shoes that give you the right stability and support you need to sustain the number of miles you will run throughout your training and race.

Half marathons are a great length because they allow people of all running abilities to participate. As long as the runner follows a training schedule, stretches, and takes care of their feet they will have a healthy and successful race.