Runningmonkeys

Here is a quick illustration that I found by chance.

Stand with your back to a wall (a strong, not easily damaged wall or at least someone Else’s wall).  Lift one foot off the ground and place it on the wall a bit below knee height.

Now take your foot off the wall and sharply send it back with all of the force striking on your heel.  Do this a few more times steadily increasing the amount of force that your heel takes as it hits the wall.  This simulates heel striking. 

Remember the amount of force that you used, and do exactly the same but this time hit the wall with the ball of your foot.  Feel the difference?  You can really afford to wack into the wall, if you choose, without feeling anywhere near as much shock as when you hit with your heel.

What you have just proved is that your ankle can absorb the stresses that would otherwise be sent straight up your leg to do its damage.  Is it any wonder that forefoot running reduces injuries?