running... hand question

[vengeance05]

I'm just getting into running to try and work up my stamina for the 1.5 mile run. One of the local track coaches here tells all her runners to run with their hands open because it allegedly promotes blood circulation which conserves energy. She says that by balling your hands into fists you are making more blood stay in the hand and that will reduce your energy in long distance running.

I have seen runners using both techniques, and I am just getting into running so I have no personal knowledge if the method works or not. I have the tendency to make fists while running. My question is should I try and force myself to change the way my hands are positioned/is there a real benefit to having open hands? Or is it just mental and would I therefore run better in the way that seems more natural to me?

[LAPDguy]

Originally posted by vengeance05
My question is should I try and force myself to change the way my hands are positioned/is there a real benefit to having open hands? Or is it just mental and would I therefore run better in the way that seems more natural to me?
The track coach is right on the money with the open hand approach. When you tighten your fist up you're also creating more "tension" when you run. It's harder to run long distances if you feel more of this stress. Running isn't like lifting weights where you work yourself up into an adrenaline frenzy. The more relaxed you are when you run the longer and faster you can go. The only time this isn't true is when you're running short sprints which require quick bursts of adrenaline and stamina.

I know most people have a natural tendency to ball up their fists when they run. The best way to do it is to run loose with your hands up in front and back straight with good posture.

[Junkyard Dawg]

An alternative to running with your hands in a karate chop position is to lightly close you hands and place your thumbs between your first two fingers. My high school track coach used to advocate this method. He also encouraged us to use our arms to propel us forward.

[Mongo]

Originally posted by Junkyard Dawg
...in a karate chop position...

I was gonna say, wasn't the 'open hand running' technique first started by the Ninja's in the early 80's? :D

I don't run like I'm cutting wind with my hand, but my hands are open...just totally relaxed, but not to the point that they're flopping around. Go with what feels good.