Does foot strike matter when running?

Heel, Mid-foot or Forefoot Strike? Which is the right way...

I have long found that the debate around foot strike is a mute conversation. Firstly, I don't believe that there is one specific way that everyone should run following a prescribed set of metrics.

Secondly, there are more important things to take into account in regards to running technique. Foot contact with the ground has got so much attention as it is an easily observed point of reference not that it is a definitive marker for injury or poor performance. In an article I read this last week it revealed the findings of a meta-analysis (review of multiple research studies) that found no clear reason for runners to change their running technique in the absence of injury. In a 2018 study the IAAF found that 67% of men and 57% of women running the marathon heel strike. These are elite runners! (IAAF study)
What we need to take into account is that when we change technique we don't get rid of forces acting on the body we just move them around! Striking the ground with different parts of the foot will only shift the focus of energy and strain to opposing areas. In all cases, the best way to protect against injury or improve performance is to specify your strength and conditioning program to match your technique and fitness level.
Here is a link to the article I read: Trainright footstrike