Health and Physical Education Program hosts running clinic with Dr. Mackenzie Jones

MURRAY, Ky. – The Murray State University’s Health and Physical Education (HPE) program within the College of Education and Human Services hosted Dr. Mackenzie Jones from SoledOut Performance and Physical Therapy on Oct. 14. 

The 45-minute clinic provided students with the opportunity to learn about the key motions involved in the running stride.

During the session, Jones said students practiced basic running exercises and technique drills commonly taught to athletes. 

"Students will walk away with a basic understanding of how to identify movement patterns in running that contribute to injury, speed and endurance," Jones said.

Dr. Kim Vigil, HPE program coordinator, explained that students are introduced to anatomical movements and basic biomechanical principles at the beginning of HPE 275. 

"The goal of this running clinic is to deepen students' understanding of concepts through an application-based lens," Vigil said. "This clinic reinforces content while encouraging students to apply movement principles to sports and physical activity. Ultimately, students become better equipped to ensure safe movement and physical activity practices while maximizing performance in their future careers."

Jones noted that he decided to offer a running clinic because many sports, such as basketball and soccer, involve running. 

"However, running technique is often a misunderstood or ignored aspect of sports training," Jones said. "We wanted to share a simple approach to learning the skill of running."

Trevor Terrell, a sophomore health and physical education student shared what he learned during the running clinic. 

“I learned that most people have the wrong idea of the ideal running position,” Terrell said. 

Haven Ford, a sophomore health and physical education student, also gained valuable information from Jones and his clinic. 

“[I learned] landing on your heel and your ankle is in dorsi and is less efficient and can cause injury,” Ford said. “It is important to run your ankle in line with your hip.” 

Jones expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share his knowledge with HPE students.

 “I have a passion for helping others improve their health, especially in the area of running injury prevention," Jones said. "Running is an activity that requires little to no equipment. It is also an effective way to improve fitness, relieve stress and enhance sports performance.”

Jones said it’s important to teach these skills to show how certain movements can potentially lead to injury. 

“I believe it is vital for our future health and fitness professionals to understand how incorrect movement patterns contribute to injury risk,” Jones said. “We know there’s an inherent risk involved in all sports, but we all have to work together to ensure the safety of all athletes that are involved.”  

For more information about the Health and Physical Education program, visit bit.ly/3YsgWna.