After first picking up in popularity in the 80s, Running Backwards, or retro running as it’s sometimes called, has got runners talking again this year.
With a 50% increase in monthly global search volumes, there clearly is a renewed interest in this unique type of running. I believe part of this is due to Kara Goucher’s recent announcement that she may no longer be able to run. Others with dystonia found they could run backwards! So now I think we’re all pondering it.
But what really is running backwards?
Can it help you become a better runner? Or is it just a fad that will run its course and fade away?
While backward running has a small following currently, many studies show that it can be a highly rewarding activity for runners to practice.
In this article, you’re going to learn all there is to running backwards, and we’ll touch upon its impact on your joints as well as the top benefits you can gain from trying out this latest running trend.
Ready? Let’s get started!
What is Running Backwards?
Running backwards is exactly what it sounds like. Running backwards instead of forwards like its traditionally done. It’s commonly called retro running, reverse running or backward running. If you want a fancy term backwards running can can be called retro…
