Running Cadence? What is it and how it affects running performance and Recovery!

Cadence refers to the number of steps you take per minute while running. A higher cadence generally means your foot spends less time on the ground with each stride, reducing the stress and load on your muscles, joints, and ligaments. Conversely, a lower cadence increases the time your foot spends on the ground, leading to greater stress on the muscles that propel you forward. Over time, this can elevate your risk of soft tissue injuries if not properly managed.

Common Injuries Associated with Low Cadence 

1. Tendinopathy: This condition is characterized by the repeated strain and inflammation of a tendon, often caused by overuse, poor technique, or improper footwear. Achilles tendinopathy is particularly common among runners due to the significant pressure absorbed by the Achilles tendon during both acceleration and deceleration phases of running.
2. Plantar Fasciitis: One of the most common causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia—a fibrous tissue along the bottom of the foot. The condition is typically worsened by high-impact activities like running, which place substantial pressure on the fascia.