Running Analysis at Breathe In Motion: How It Can Prevent Injuries and Improve Your Times
With the running season in full swing here in Wisconsin, gait (or running) analysis is a hot topic. But what exactly is a running analysis and how can it benefit you? Let’s dive in!!
What is a gait analysis?
A gait analysis, also known as a running analysis, is a specialized assessment conducted by your Doctor of Physical Therapy to evaluate your running form. Through this analysis, your therapist can identify subtle changes in your mechanics that could either enhance your speed or help prevent potential injuries.
At Breathe in Motion, your gait analysis involves running on a treadmill while your therapist records you from multiple angles. The speed and incline of your run will be adjusted based on the specific goals of the analysis.
Who is a Gait Analysis For?
Any runner! A common misconception is that running analyses are only for runners who are injured. However, a healthy runner can gain significant advantages as well. Improper technique can lead to issues down the road if not addressed. By undergoing a running analysis, you can proactively prevent running injuries. Furthermore, refinding your running form can directly lead to improved speed and efficiency.
How Can a Running Analysis Prevent Injures?
Running form can be a key piece of the puzzle when it comes to understanding the root cause of an injury. Running analysis can help pinpoint:
Imbalances in muscle strength or flexibility
Faulty movement patterns increasing stress on joints
How your foot contacts the ground and the length of your stride to optimize impact and propulsion
How Can a Gait Analysis Improve Times?
By undergoing a running analysis, you will gain a deeper understanding of how your body moves. Your therapist can identify inefficient movement patterns that might be hindering your performance. By correcting these, you will improve your running speed technique, resulting in increased times and preventing injures. Additionally, if muscle imbalances are affecting your gait, your physical therapist will help to pinpoint these through the running analysis and guide a targeted treatment plan to fix this, ultimately helping you to shave seconds off your personal best.
Schedule your running evaluation today and take the first step towards optimizing your performance and preventing injuries!