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Running Form Analysis

Running Form Analysis Specialist Q&A

If you’re new to the sport or are training for a race, we would love to answer any additional questions you have about running form analysis. We have convenient locations to serve you in Walnut Creek, CA, and Brentwood, CA. For more information, call us now.

Running Form Analysis Specialist Near Me in Walnut Creek, CA and Brentwood, CA
Running Form Analysis Specialist Near Me in Walnut Creek, CA and Brentwood, CA

Table of Contents:

How do you analyze running form?
How do I analyze my running gait?
How can I improve my running form?
Why is running form important?

The highly-trained doctors at Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates believe that everyone deserves to have the knowledge and information needed to ensure proper foot and ankle health. One of the most common stressors that lead to foot and ankle injuries is running. Running is an incredible sport that has numerous health benefits such as improving cardiovascular endurance and building strength.

That being said, incorrect running form can cause long-lasting damage to the foot and ankle. Because we don’t want you to ever have to give up your love of running, our specialized doctors offer running form analysis. Whether you’re new to the sport or are a seasoned runner, getting your form checked can save you from future injuries down the road. So what exactly is running form analysis and what can a running form analysis specialist do for you?

How do you analyze running form?


Running form analysis allows specialists to understand and learn about their clients’ running form using advanced video technology. Being able to slow down the video will give both the runner and the specialist insight into running stance, stride, mechanical movements, and motor patterns. This collected data can help runners improve their speed and prevent possible injuries.
 
Many small bad habits can go unnoticed without a running form analysis. This can eventually lead to a knee injury, ankle injury, and foot injury. Getting a professional analysis can test your symmetry, body movements, strength, posture, and balance.

How do I analyze my running gait?


A running form analysis, or a running gait analysis, allows you to see the mechanics of your running and can let you, your coach, and your doctor know why you may be suffering from a recurring injury. The video will be shot with many angles including a side view, frontal view, and back view. Your specialist will make note of any joint or muscle instability, incorrect foot placement, ankle bending, and all other movements. In most cases, very simple tweaks can lead to huge improvements.

How can I improve my running form?


Improving running form is a fantastic goal to have! Unfortunately, when you start to fix one problem, you can start to overcompensate in other areas. This can lead to a difficult cycle of fixing one issue and then having a new one come up over and over and over again. This is why physical therapists recommend focusing on one small change at a time.
 
The two biggest problems runners can have in their form are overstriding and arm swinging. Some ways to fix overstriding include increasing your cadence, purchasing the proper running shoe, being mindful of foot placement, practicing running drills, and improving your hamstring strength. After fixing this issue, pay attention to your arm swings. If you’re swinging too aggressively or unnaturally you can twist your upper body forcing your lower body to overcompensate.
 
These issues may take a lot of time to perfect, but once you have your stride down pat, you will see tremendous growth in your running gait. The best way to fix your running form is to see a professional coach, trainer, physical therapist, or specialist.

Why is running form important?


Improper running form can cause long-term injuries, muscle imbalances, and unnecessary fatigue. The benefits of having proper form include:
 
– Reduced injury risk
– Faster muscle recovery
– Improved running efficiency
– Faster running speed
– Less stress on your body
– Higher endurance
 
If getting your running form officially assessed sounds like something you might be interested in, take a look online at physical therapists and specialized sports podiatrists. This could change your running game completely especially if you’re new to the sport or are training for a race. Book an appointment online or call during our office hours to chat about coming in for an appointment at one of our locations. We serve patients from Walnut Creek CA, Brentwood CA, Concord CA, Pleasant Hill CA, Antioch CA, Danville CA, Pittsburg CA, Alamo CA, and Oakley CA.