Racewalking Rules and Technique

Rules: Racewalkers must keep one foot on the ground at all times. They must keep their knees straight from the movement the heel of the advancing leg hits the ground until that leg passes directly under the body. Racewalkers must not shuffle, jog or run.

OBVIOUS VIOLATIONS OF RACEWALKING STANDARDS WILL RESULT IN TIME PENALTIES.
NUMEROUS RACE JUDGES WILL BE PRESENT TO RECORD VIOLATIONS.
This is a measured, sanctioned race.


Technique: To get an idea of what racewalking feels like, simply stand in place with your feet together and your arms held by your sides with the elbows bent 90 degrees. Now pump your knees forward and back while keeping your feet flat on the ground with your weight on your heels. Each time you pull your knee back your leg will straighten under your body just as it will when you're racewalking. Now all you need to do is add some stride length by stepping forward a bit with either foot each time you pump your knees. Just be sure to land on your heels, otherwise your knees will probably bend when your foot hits the ground. Concentrate on taking short quick steps rather than long slow strides. If you do that, you'll have an easier time keeping your knees straight, and you'll expend much less energy.


RACEWALKING CLINIC: This is optional!! To help race walkers improve their race walking skills we are offering a racewalking clinic on race day, May 19th at 5:00 at the state capital front lawn. Look for a sign near the tents. For further information feel free to email Mike Feulner: mfeulner@aol.com.