Until a little while ago, whenever I saw an athlete running with a heel strike, I couldn't help but call out to him and encourage him to change the way he puts his foot on the ground. But in the end, is this really necessary for every runner?
At Ochy, we live for movement, curiosity — and a little bit of experimentation. We’re always looking for ways to understand how our bodies move, and how even the smallest variables can make a big difference. So recently, we put one simple but powerful question to the test:
Can the shoes you wear actually change the way you run?
We weren’t in a lab. No electrodes, no white coats. Just a bit of sweat, a camera, and a handful of shoes.
The idea was simple: switch up the gear, and observe what happens to the mechanics.
And the outcome? Way more revealing than expected.
Each pair brought out unique nuances in form. Some made the stride smoother, others added a bit of instability. A certain pair increased hip movement. Another seemed to soften the impact on landing.
It was a clear reminder that your gear isn’t just about comfort or style — it can directly influence your biomechanics.
Even small changes in structure, drop, cushioning, or weight can alter how your body loads, stabilizes, and propels itself forward. And those changes? Over time, they can affect performance, injury risk, and overall efficiency.
This test isn’t just for biomechanics nerds — it’s for every runner who wants to get smarter about their movement. Here's your challenge:
💡 What works for one runner might not work for another. That’s the beauty of biomechanics — it’s personal. But with the right tools, you don’t have to guess.
Whether you're chasing performance, trying to stay injury-free, or just curious about how you move — this experiment can reveal a lot. And it’s fun!
📲 Fire up the Ochy app, swap those shoes, and see what changes.
You might just discover your stride in a whole new light.
Stay curious, stay in motion,
— The Ochy Team
P.S. If you take on the challenge, tag us on Instagram or send us your video — we’d love to see (and maybe feature!) your test!
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