RUN CLUB BLOG: RUNNING ASSESSMENT

Have you ever felt like you’ve hit a roadblock with your running goals or simply unsure of whether you’re running with the correct technique?

Have you experienced pain related to your running that’s limiting you from going further?

Whether you’re a veteran or just starting your running journey, the good news is a Running Assessment with your local physios here at Hartwell Physio can provide you the answers you need to optimise your function toward achieving your goals!

A Running Assessment involves a video analysis of your running technique to help you identify inefficient movement patterns. Your physio initially will ask questions about previous injuries and current/past training which may influence your performance. They will then implement specific strategies and find which works best for you to optimise your running and reduce your risk of injury. They may also give you advice on footwear or orthotics as they directly impact how you run.

Assessing your technique is not only important for optimal running, but it also helps prevent injuries that can develop as a result of poor biomechanics.

Injuries such as shin splints or patellofemoral pain are a few common injuries that are related to poor running technique or overload. Injuries sustained here can cause issues further up or down the chain such as hip, ankle or foot injuries as a result of poor technique. A Running Assessment will help you highlight areas that require more attention which may involve working on strength, joint mobility/flexibility or motor control to achieve the correct running patterns.

Following an injury, it’s important that you allow your body the time to adapt to your activity levels. Your physio will guide you on when it is appropriate to return to running using specific measures or tests to determine your muscle and joints capacity for load. They may provide you with a modified running program at the beginning, to ensure that you’re returning to running with optimal technique at a pace that your body is able to manage. A Running Assessment combined with gradual increase in duration/intensity of your runs will be the key to injury prevention and getting you back on your feet to crossing that finish line!

Join Hartwell Physio Run Club HERE.

Your local Camberwell Physio.