The 3Rs / Real Running Reminders
Running ability is programmed into the human DNA. For millions of years, we have run from danger and towards the things we seek. As humans, we innately know how to run -- we Run Real.
Real Running is not a new program, proprietary technique, or something we invented. Real Running is our honest, open solution to the confusion over terms like "barefoot", "minimal", "natural" and "free" styles of running.
At SKORA we view Real Running as running how nature intended -- efficient, effective and with ease.
As the foot strikes the ground, contact is made in the middle of the foot, not at the heel. Running with a whole-foot gait results in less impact energy and force shock transmitted through the body than compared to the heel strike gait favored by conventional running shoes (built with large amounts of cushioning, support and a thicker heel).
Real Running is not something your body needs to learn, but rather be reminded of. As a child we all Run Real, it is only as we grow up and get used to conventional running shoes we forget how to run naturally.
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ReconnectReconnect to your body |
RepositionReposition your body |
RhythmFind your Rhythm |
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The mind-body connection provides important feedback (proprioception). | The position of your body greatly affects your running form. | The rhythm of your stride is an important part of maintaining good form. |
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Keeping the feet closer to the running surface reconnects the sense of touch and facilitates a light landing that is consistent with a whole-foot gait. | Maintain an upright posture, aligning the hip to head. Land with your feet under your body, not in front. Keep your knees slightly bent, avoid landing with an outstretched, straight leg. | While every body and gait is different, a good stride rhythm is around 180 footstrikes per minute. |
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Awareness of how your feet connect with the running surface helps give your body greater control and efficiency. | A good running body position enables the legs and feet to naturally absorb impact energy and forces throughout the body. | A shorter stride length, encourages a whole-foot landing that allows your entire body to work as efficiently, and biomechanically correct as possible. |
Dear fellow runners and running shoe industry -
Within our industry there has in recent years been a revolution of runners returning to a more natural style of running. This resurgence has brought a spotlight to running and has been positive for the industry and runners. I welcome the recognition of this new outlook by traditional running shoe companies and the introduction of new brands such as ourselves, and look forward to more joining the revolution.
As a runner and CEO, however, I have my concerns. In spite of the positive growth of the industry and interest in this new segment, there is growing confusion in the minds of retailers and runners alike. The problems as I see it, are ones of marketing and design focus.
Concerning running form, I believe there is a consensus and many things we all agree on: Running in a way that respects our bodies is running as nature intended. As the foot strikes the ground it does so with the whole foot.
It is not about learning a new style or proprietary method of running, but rather relearning what our bodies already know. I would propose there is only one way to run, (we call it Real Running) and it is the way our bodies have been programmed to do so and is deep in our DNA. This is key. For the benefit of all runners, we must join together to educate the consumer and be consistent in our message.
Firstly, let us consider the marketing terms used to describe shoes designed for this style of running. Some call them "minimal", "barefoot-style", "natural", or "free". These are terms with which the consumer and mass media identifies, yet the problem is that there are no clear definitions of these terms. These labels exist often only as marketing labels and are applied as marketing departments see fit. There exist "minimal" shoes with rigid TPU shanks, "barefoot" shoes with 10mm heel to toe drop, and "natural" shoes designed to encourage heel strike.
We can differentiate in design, specifications, materials and features. We can argue if 8mm of cushioning is better than 9mm or 6.5oz is better than 7.2oz. But, for the benefit of all runners, let's agree on something -- let's use labels to inform, educate and communicate rather than obfuscate and confuse.
Natural, healthy running is based on some basic principles and we must be consistent in applying labels to products that promote this running form.
Secondly, and more importantly, I call for a true commitment to this healthy running revolution in design and product focus. If you, as I do, believe this is the only way to run that respects our bodies, let's show consensus and proudly demonstrate to the consumer the strength in our belief.
I firmly believe that all shoes should enable healthy, natural, midfoot running. It is not "niche", "category", or "marketing message". We must respect the consumer and owe them an open, honest approach.
How can we expect the consumer not to be confused when some brands tell them the "best" shoe for them is one with maximum cushioning and support, and yet offer another shoe that proudly proclaims that a "barefoot feel" is "best"? Let's end the hypocrisy, take a stand and show respect for runners. Healthy running is more than trend or the latest marketing bandwagon to join.
At SKORA, we are fully committed to our goals of ensuring better running for all. It is not an experiment, a niche category or just another SKU. All of our shoes respect running as nature intended. We hope you will join us in working toward a common goal of making ALL shoes ones that respect a more healthy, natural style of running.
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10 Real Differences