Is running on concrete bad? – ENERTOR®

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Is running on concrete bad?


There’s plenty of running surfaces to choose from, but most people are surrounded by the urban environment and that means concrete is the primary running surface. The question we hear a lot is, is running on concrete bad? Runners are often concerned about knee pain, but is concrete the culprit?

What happens when you run on concrete

Whenever you run you place downward pressure on your knees and ankles. This pressure is met by the surface you’re running on. Hard surfaces cannot absorb the pressure easily and so they reflect that energy back up into your joints. Concrete is one of the hardest surfaces to run on, which means most of the energy of your footfall is reflected back into your body with each step.

When you run on softer surfaces like grass or rubberised running tracks, the shock is distributed more easily so there is less pressure on your body. Is running on concrete bad in comparison? Softer surfaces may return less energy, but they do come with other risks, such as uneven or wet surfaces, making your footfall less reliable and more prone to slips and falls.

How can you avoid injuries from running on concrete

The best way to reduce the chance of injury from running on concrete is to invest in the best quality running shoes you can afford. Make sure they have plenty of cushioning and support. This extra padding will help absorb the shock and diffuse it before it goes to your joints. You can also try to switch up your running routine to include a variety of surfaces. For example, try running on the grass next to a concrete path, cut across a park or spend some time on a local sports track. Running on compressed soil such as paths found on nature trails can also be quite comfortable (as well as scenic).

Final thoughts

Is running on concrete bad? It’s not inherently bad for you as long as you take the right precautions. Varying your routine will help to encourage your body to adjust to different surfaces and tensions which will strengthen your body overall.

About Enertor Advanced Technology Insoles – Enertor insoles are designed to prevent a number of common running injuries and provide more comfort. Designed by leading podiatrists to reduce your risk of injury, the unique design features support your foot throughout training.  Enertor insoles are enhanced by PX1 impact protection technology, which means they can provide more shock absorption than any other insole.  Our expertise, combined with the patented PX1 shock absorption technology, enables Enertor to deliver the most advanced injury prevention insoles on the market today.

Enertor insoles are available to buy from our online shop.

Whilst Enertor has over 18 years Orthotics experience, our blog content is provided for informational purposes only and it is not a substitute for your own doctor’s medical advice. Enertor advises anyone with an injury to seek their own medical advice – and do not make any health or medical related decisions based solely on information found on this site.

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