FAQs - Running Gait Analysis

• Can you really assess my running properly without seeing me in person?

  Yes. High-quality smartphone video can provide us with a detailed view of your running mechanics. By reviewing your footage in slow motion and from different angles, we can assess key aspects of your running technique and movement.

  The advantage of the virtual clinic is that we can assess you running in your usual outdoor environment and at the speeds you actually train at.

• Will you tell me how to change my running technique?

  Not necessarily. There is no single ‘perfect’ running technique that every runner needs to achieve. We will look at your running in the context of your goals, training and injury history and only recommend changes where we think they are likely to be beneficial.

• Do I need a treadmill?

  No. We specifically assess your running outdoors, which often provides a more representative picture of your normal running mechanics.

• What equipment do I need?

  Just a smartphone capable of recording video and someone to film you (or a stable tripod/phone stand).

• Can a Virtual Running Clinic help if I have an injury?

  Yes, in many cases. If you are able to run, analysing your running mechanics can provide useful information about factors that may be contributing to your symptoms. We can then discuss appropriate modifications to your running, exercises and training.

  If you are currently unable to run, or your injury requires a more detailed physical assessment, we may recommend an in-person physiotherapy assessment instead.

• Can this help with an existing injury?

  Yes. The assessment can help identify running-related factors that may be contributing to symptoms, although we may also recommend a full physiotherapy assessment if needed.

• Is gait analysis useful after injury?

  Absolutely. Running gait analysis can be particularly helpful when returning to running after injury. It allows us to assess how your body is moving following rehabilitation and identify any remaining strength deficits, compensations or loading issues.

  At Podium Physiotherapy, we regularly help runners in Wimbledon and Raynes Park safely return to training after injuries such as Achilles tendinopathy, shin splints, runner’s knee and stress-related injuries.

• Is the Virtual Running Clinic suitable if I don't have an injury?

  Absolutely. You don’t need to be injured to benefit from a running assessment. The Virtual Running Clinic is also suitable for runners who want to improve their running efficiency, understand their running mechanics, prepare for a race or identify areas to work on as part of their training.