Overstriding can lead to maladaptive forces on the body.

It essentially forces the body into an unnecessary “braking” motion before then trying to re-propel the body forward.

9 Ways to Reduce Overstriding

Increase your cadence (steps per minute). This fixes many things.
Consciously focus on your foot landing under your pelvis.
Think about lengthening your stride behind you.
Run up hills. You can't overstride when going up an incline.
Add a forward lean. Think about doing it at the ankles. Like you're falling forward and have to catch yourself at each step.
Strengthen everything. Can't go wrong getting strong.
Run barefoot or with minimalist shoes (proceed with caution)
Practice running drills like the A-Skip
Get assessed by a physical therapist (it might just be an isolated limitation somewhere specific, like hip flexor tightness, that is impairing your ability to not over stride)

What to Do

The easiest fix would be trying to consciously correct it (above 2, 3, 5).

The next place to go would be cadence. It's a little laborous mentally, but it really can make a significant impact (as long as you don't increase it by >10%).

Another place to try if the previous ones don't work is the external fixes (4, 6, 7).

But probably the best is the last one. Even if it's just one visit for assessment, it can make a big impact. Sometimes it's as easy as resolving one inpairment to open your running form up to allow it to run without overstriding.

Give us a call, email, or text if you need this. We're happy to help!