Runners - What do you do with your arms?

[plgrn]

I'm a newbie to running (as if that wasn't obvious by the question!) and can't figure out what to do with my arms while I'm running. I've been keeping my wrists at hip level with a slight bend to the elbow, but they sure do swing around a lot. I read on coolrunning.com that your arms shouldn't swing forward past your bellybutton! I think it would be exhausting for me to keep them from swinging.

What do you runners do with your arms

 

[scuba diver]

Do what is natural for you. Let them swing.

The best is to make sure your upper body is relaxed. Don't tense up.

And when your arms swing, try to avoid swing across your body. When they swing forward they keep you moving that way.

Just get out there and keep moving!

 

[Oofies]

GOOD FOR YOU!!!
I let my arms do whatever makes me more relaxed in my run- the only part I have to 'remember' is to RELAX, otherwise I get very sore though my shoulders.

By the way- if it hurts, don't do it. The least painful way to 'start running' is to walk and walk and walk, and when you get bored and impatient with walking- start running. I say that I run because I am too lazy to walk- it takes too long!

Good luck, and get good shoes!

 

[AKASnowWhite]

I say that I run because I am too lazy to walk- it takes too long!

That's funny! I say I'm too impatient to walk - for the same reason - it's just takes to long! I just wanna get done!

As for your arms - my suggestion would be to first do what's comfortable to you. You are running for exercise, yes? If you were running for efficiency, and trying to increase your speed and endurance you'd need to focus on proper form and not "over-using" your arms. All that swinging, and criss-crossing of your arms in front of your body does take up a lot of your energy! But for now, I say, do what feels good!