Video analysis of pronation on foot strike
Gait analysis is included in all coaching packages, and is also available separately.
Gait analysis or running form analysis is the process of assessing your body’s mechanics as you run. We can use this to recommend the best running shoe type for you and allow you to test different styles of running shoes. We can also make recommendations for other improvements to your running technique to reduce injury risk and improve performance.
Increased pronation from a less supportive shoe (second image) for the same runner
The gait analysis process starts by finding out about you as a runner, the type of running you do or want to do, the races you have planned and goals you hope to achieve. We will also ask about your injury history and any other issues you have had in the past. Looking at your foot arch type, your walking style, wear on your existing shoes and an assessment of your balance also helps to build a picture of your individual biomechanics.
We then get you running on the treadmill (wearing your existing shoes if you are planning to test some alternatives) and make an initial assessment of your running form. We will use video analysis to determine if and how your foot rolls inward upon impact (pronation). If this is within a normal range, then a neutral running shoe is generally best for you. In some cases, as the foot lands, it rolls inwards in an excessive or uncontrolled way (overpronation). This may also be associated with instability in the knee and hips, which can cause pain and is associated with a wide range of common injuries in the foot, knee and up to the hip and back.
Video analysis of running form
If you have an issue with overpronation, running shoe manufacturers provide shoes with a range of methods and degrees of support. It is useful to try out a variety of shoes to see how they help your running biomechanics on the treadmill. As the testing is all indoors, you can order potentially suitable shoes online and test them with us to decide which are best, before returning the others.
As well as looking for overpronation, we will also analyse your running form including head carriage, arm position and tracking, torso and hip alignment, foot strike, knee tracking etc. We will also look for changes as your pace increases from steady run pace up to race (10k/5k) pace. Recommendations can then be made for improvements in your running form to reduce injury risk and improve your economy and speed. We can suggest strength and conditioning work and run drills to improve your running.
Gait analysis service
Consultation on history and goals, including issues/pain
Physiology and flexibility/range of motion assessment
Analysis of foot strike and pronation type
Shoe comparison (if required)
Assessment of running form at steady and race pace
Full report summarising assessment findings and recommendations
Follow up visit if required
£40 (included in all coaching packages)
Typically takes about an hour, depending on number of shoes being tested
