In distance running technique, what is the effect of minimizing upper body movement?

• A. It reduces energy waste and improves efficiency.
• B. It increases oxygen consumption.
• C. It slows pace by restricting arm drive.
• D. It causes excessive fatigue in legs.

Answer: (A)

Minimizing upper body movement tests running economy—the idea that reducing unnecessary motion lowers the metabolic cost of running. When the arms and upper body swing excessively, extra muscular work is required, increasing oxygen use for the same pace. A relaxed, controlled arm swing keeps balance and rhythm without wasting energy, so the overall energy expenditure drops and efficiency improves. That’s why the best outcome is reduced energy waste and better efficiency. The other ideas don’t fit because adding energy cost would raise oxygen use, overly restricting arm motion can disrupt rhythm rather than help pace, and simply reducing upper body movement doesn’t inherently cause more leg fatigue.