Everybody has a different running technique and a gait analysis will give you important information about the way you run in order to enhance your performance. A gait analysis will use a video recording to determine the degree of pronation and find the right type of shoe to compliment the runner’s style. It plays a crucial part in preventing long-term injuries so it’s a very beneficial thing to do for your body.
What is pronation?
Pronation is the way in which your foot rolls inwards when you step on the floor. You will either have overpronation, underpronation or neutral pronation. Overpronation is the most common type to have and means the foot rolls inwards excessively. Underpronation is the opposite, sometimes referred to as supination, meaning the foot rolls outwards and leads to the lower leg taking the transmission of shock. Neutral pronation means the foot lands on the outer edge and then rolls inwards promoting a good distribution of weight.
The goal of a gait analysis is to determine which type of pronation you have and to help you find a shoe that counterbalances this to help reduce the risk of injury and improve your running experience.
What will a gait analysis involve?
When you go to a running shop for a gait analysis it will usually be determined through a recording of you running. Many shops will have a treadmill and camera to record your feet from behind. This footage will then be slowed down so that you can see exactly how you run. You can discuss what kind of running you do and what you will use the shoes for and the expert will then advise you on which shoes are best for you.
Stores will usually offer a gait analysis free of charge so it’s worth going in and finding out how you can improve your running.
Why is gait analysis important?
Gait analysis will help prevent your body from having to compensate when you run. It avoids an imbalance where large muscles such as your hamstrings, glutes and quads do less work than they’re supposed to and smaller muscles begin to strain from taking most of the impact. If you’re an experienced runner and already know which shoes work for you without causing injury, then you may not need a gait analysis. However, if you’re new to running or regularly experience injuries, a gait analysis is a great way to understand your running style and improve your performance. Going into the shop for a gait analysis will also allow you to try on different shoes to pick a pair you find really comfortable.
How often should you have your gait analysed?
It’s beneficial to get your gait analysed when you first start running, after this, it is then recommended to get an analysis once a year as your gait may change the more you run.
How often should you get new running shoes?
It is advised to replace your running shoes every 300-500 miles, which equates to every four to six months for somebody that runs 20 miles a week, but once a year for someone that runs 10 miles a week.
VeloRunner is a cycling and running shop in Stone, Staffordshire, offering free gait analysis to receive expert advice on your running technique and advise you on the best shoe to optimise your running performance. Contact us today to begin your journey to a better run.