1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Running & Jogging

10 Common Running Mistakes to Avoid

By Christine Luff, About.com

Updated September 08, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

5 of 10

Running Mistake #5: Bad Upper Body Form

The problem: Some runners swing their arms side-to-side, which makes you more likely to slouch and not breathe as efficiently. Some beginners have a tendency to hold their hands way up by their chest, especially as they get tired. You'll actually get more tired by holding your arms that way and you'll start to feel tightness and tension in your shoulders and neck.

The solution: Try to keep your hands at waist level, right about where they might lightly brush your hip. Your arms should be at a 90 degree angle, with your elbows at your sides.

Imagine a vertical line splitting your body in half -- your hands should not cross it. Keep your posture straight and erect. Your head should be up, your back straight, and shoulders level. When you're tired at the end of your run, it's common to slump over a little, which can lead to neck, shoulder, and lower-back pain. When you feel yourself slouching, poke your chest out.

More: Tips for Proper Running Form
How to Avoid Tension When Running
Video: Proper Running Form

Reclaim the morning and your sanity with these easy recipes, tips, and timesaving ideas.

Explore Running & Jogging
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Running & Jogging
  4. Running for Beginners
  5. Common Running Mistakes - Bad Upper Body Form

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.