I have been working on the c25k program and am now into my 25 minute runs. Tonight I was running a little later than usual(the sun had actually set) when another runner passed me in my neighborhood. Then I noticed she ran backwards downhill. I do remember reading somewhere that every mile or so when training, it is good to run backwards for a short while, but I cannot remember where. So does anyone throw backwards running into their running routine, and if so, what are the benefits? Thanks!

Here is an artcile from Runner's World on running backwards:
http://askcoachjenny.runnersworld.co...ny-bennie.html

I've only done it a couple of times, just not part of my regular running routine.

I have visions of me tripping while running backwards and rolling downhill like a cartoon snowball.

Tyler- I read the article you provided up with above and I am definitely going to start incorporating it into my workouts.

also, some people with knee issues - like my dh - run backwards downhill to protect the knee.

Funny - I've been meaning to do it at the end of my runs for my hamstrings and kept forgetting and today I did and came in here and it has it's own thread. I wasnt going down hill though so you didnt see me!

Thanks for the help. I may start adding it when I graduate myself from c25k. I don't know about downhill, that seems scary to me!