The Soft Knee

The sport of racewalking has two rules. One pertains to maintaining foot contact and the other focuses on knees. This exercise helps adhere to the requirement that, "the athlete's leading leg be straightened as the foot makes contact with the ground. It must remain straightened until the leg passes under the body." (www.usatf.org/disciplines/race-walking)
Landing on the heel with a straight knee involves strength in the anterior tibialis (shins) and quadriceps (thigh muscles), as well as flexibility in the hamstrings (back of thighs) and calves.
If you are trying to racewalk and have been told that you have a "soft knee", that means that your knee does not look completely straight when you make contact with your foot.
If you've tried traditional drills and exercises and the problem persists, check to make sure you are properly dorsiflexing your foot. Here are some additional exercises to try:
Toes-feet-feet-toes: • Got weak shins? Not i...
Seated foot flex: • Walk like a profession...
For more information about improving your flexibility, Race Walking skills, or to learn more about Coach Carmen and Reshod Walking Shoes, visit www.reshod.com