Final answer:
Transitioning from heel strike to forefoot strike during running changes the way forces are distributed on the foot, potentially reducing impact-related injuries such as stress fractures by making better use of the foot's natural arches for shock absorption.
Step-by-step explanation:
The transition of a heel strike runner to a forefoot strike can provide an advantage in terms of the way forces are absorbed by the body during running. When running, weight puts a tremendous amount of pressure and force on the foot. For a heel strike runner, this force is initially concentrated on the heel and can be more jarring. A forefoot strike, on the other hand, allows the foot's arches to more effectively absorb this force. The arch naturally flattens and rebounds with each step, providing a springy effect and helping to distribute body weight more evenly across the foot. This running style may help in reducing the likelihood of injuries such as stress fractures, as it can lessen the impact on the bones and joints of the lower limbs by distributing forces more effectively throughout the foot's structure.