RunwithKat Show

Running is A Skill

• Katherine Campbell • Episode 86

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As a physical therapist, I often find that there is a debate when it comes to running… That is, is running a learned skill or is it something that we innately pick up and do well right away? So, in this episode I have Dr. TJ Martino here to discuss just that. And, if it is a skill, how can runners improve and refine that skill to become a better runner. 

Episode Outline

00:00
Introduction: Is Running a Learned Skill or an Innate Ability?

06:39
Challenging Yourself and the Benefits of Running

11:19
The Developmental Sequence of Movement and Coordination in Running

25:37
Long-Term Athletic Development: Play, Practice, and Training

30:04
Refining Running Skills: Beyond Running Form

31:59
Positive self-talk and starting the process

34:03
Starting with biomechanics and key performance indicators

37:24
Importance of warm-up drills and assessments

48:07
The role of coaching and individualized approaches

57:10
Run your own race: Focus on your journey


About Dr. TJ Martino, PT, DPT, CSCS

Dr. Martino is a licensed physical therapist, sports performance coach, and owner of EVO Health + Performance in Freehold, New Jersey.

A New Jersey native, Dr. Martino received his bachelor’s degree from Monmouth University and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Seton Hall University. He has certifications through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Functional Movement Systems (FMS), USA Track and Field, USA Weightlifting, and the International Youth Conditioning Association (IYCA).

He was previously an adjunct professor at Kean University where he taught in both the Bachelors and Masters of Exercise Science program.

With over 15 years of experience in the fitness industry, he has had the opportunity to work in various settings with active adults, high school, collegiate, Olympic- and professional-level athletes; and, acting as the team physical therapist in professional soccer with NJ Sky Blue FC (2017-2019).

He often draws from his experience as a fitness professional, promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouraging patients to have an active role in their treatment to ensure long-lasting results.

Throughout the rehab process, he applies principles of the Postural Restoration Institute, Functional Movement Systems, and general principles of sports performance to uncover the underlying cause of pain, movement dysfunction, or impaired performance. He systematically addresses these issues by restoring variability, building capacity and safely progressing patients from ‘injured to indestructible.’

In his free time, TJ enjoys an active lifestyle of strength training, running (all the miles), hiking, and spending time outdoors with his family.

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