Slow Motion Marching Stance Phase Training

This is an exercise that I often prescribe to runners during the early stages of the rehabilitation process once they are able to tolerate weight bearing through the involved region. Not only does this drill challenge the performer to maintain single leg balance in a wobble free manner, but it also starts to load the quadriceps eccentrically through a controlled range while progressing the leg over the foot (dorsiflexion). Care should be taken to assume an upright position while synchronizing the opposite arm and leg and avoiding gripping with the toes. I typically have folks perform 4, 15yd passes on firm level ground starting unshod (barefoot) before completing the exercises with shoes.