Running with blades – piece of cake?

Published on February 23, 2026

It’s not surprising that you can run with blades since, after all, they’re like a spring that propels you forward! Anyone who’s seen blade babe Marlou van Rhijn in action may think it’s a piece of cake. But we’re here to tell you that it’s anything but.

Imagine having stilts with springs mounted under your shoes. You are then asked to go for a short run. It’s not as easy as it looks! First of all, you have to refind your balance. Running also requires quite a bit of strength, balance and muscle control.

And running on a blade also creates a considerable force on the runner’s residual limb. This can lead to muscle and other pain, as well as blisters, especially in the beginning. As with every other sport, running on blades requires training and more training!

Blades: Just do it

Fortunately, there’s good news! With enough training and perseverance, lots of people can learn to run on blades. This is possible with both a lower leg amputation and a thigh amputation and with both a single and double amputation. Are you and your residual limb in good physical shape (and form)? Then running on blades may very well be right for you. Talk to your O&P professional to get his or her advice.

Want to work on your health?Start today with the free app Fitness for Amputees.

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