Coming from the flatlands, I had to learn to run uphill. Sharpening that skill, I improved all my running. You can, too, with or without hills. Next time you’re running, count the times your right foot strikes the ground in 20 seconds. Multiply by three and you’ll have your stride rate per minute. (One stride equals two steps, so your steps per min

For runners, one of the most important components of strength is the ability of joints and tissues to absorb the forces created from thousands of foot strikes every time we run.