388 | Best Exercises to Prevent Running Injuries

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy , explore running injuries and prevention strategies. They highlight the importance of foot strength, especially the use of Vivo Barefoot shoes, and discuss the benefits of structured exercise programs. A key study is reviewed, showing that hip and core strength training significantly reduces running injuries compared to foot and ankle training. The episode underscores the complexity of injury prevention, advocating for a holistic approach that includes cross-training, core awareness, and professional guidance. Ideal for women runners, this episode offers practical tips for a safer, more effective running routine. VivoBarefoot Discount: We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing ⁠VivoBareoot shoes⁠ to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "TOB20" to get 20% off your ⁠VivoBarefoot Shoes⁠! **Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund. Free Week + Hoiday Discount on the Jen Health Membership: Time to start the New Year out right! We are giving our listeners their first month for only $15!! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout! We think you’ll love: Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel See the full Show Notes and Resources here: https://jen.health/podcast/388 What You'll Learn in This Episode: 2:00 Importance of Injury Prevention 3:00 Running Injury Statistics 4:10 Explanation of the top down (hip and core) versus bottom up (foot and ankle) approaches in injury prevention. 5:40 Study Overview: Hip and Core vs. Foot and Ankle 7:30 Complexity of Injury Prevention 9:20 Results showing the hip and core program significantly reduced injury rates compared to foot/ankle and control groups. 11:40 Need for a Comprehensive Plan 14:00 Cross-Training Benefits 15:30 Plyometrics and Running 16:17 Postpartum Running Considerations 17:34 Supervised Sessions in Injury Prevention Study