Gait Analysis

A gait analysis is designed to give runners information about their running style by assessing their movements, to do this it identifies any abnormalities in the gait cycle. Once the analysis is complete, this information will allow the runner to select the right shoes for their particular style. In addition to this, runners can identify some potential issues or risks and work on exercises to try and mitigate these. The primary focus of a gait analysis is to look at pronation, though in some cases you may also hear the term supination.

In the most simple terms, supination is the opposite of pronation. Pronation refers to the inward rolling of the foot when making contact with the ground. This movement and angle of pronation is unique to you and it can be thought of as the way that you absorb shock from the impact of striking the ground.

Supination on the other hand refers to the foot rolling outward when contact with the ground is made. If you experience supination, this can mean that the ankle and toes have excessive strain placed upon them which may result in spraining. The different types of running techniques, including pronation and supination can be broken down further into the following categories:

Neutral: A neutral running gait is quite common, and it means that the foot lands on the outer edge before rolling inwards. As such, ground contact is spread more evenly around the arches, helping to keep the knees and hips in better alignment as you stride.
Excess overpronation: This type of gait means that the way you run will cause the arches to flatten more than they should. This puts strain on the muscles and tendons, resulting in an increased risk of leg and foot injuries.
Excess supination: Sometimes known as underpronation, this type of gait is the least common. It means that the foot excessively rolls outwards instead of inwards when you run, placing strain on the outer foot, and it can mean that shock absorption when you strike the ground is not as effective.

At Start Fitness, a gait analysis starts with a physical assessment of the foot to look at the arches, toes and ankles to get an idea of pronation. We will also look at the knee to see how it rolls when your foot moves. In addition to this, we’ll also need to ask you about any previous injuries, goals, or upcoming running events that may influence our recommendations and allow us to offer a more tailored experience.

For the next step, we may ask you to do several barefoot walks and runs. During this stage we’ll be watching your feet, ankles, and legs, to see what your gait is like when you strike the ground in your running posture. This will further help us to determine if you have a neutral gait, supination, or pronation.

From here, we will recommend a shoe that supports the foot and keeps it straight. All of our staff are trained to complete this analysis, so you’ll be assessed by a knowledgeable and experienced member of the team. You’ll have the opportunity to try on different pairs of running shoes, recommended by our experts based on your needs, until we can find a pair that works best for you.

If you prefer, we’ll be able to offer further advice on different aspects of the shoe, such as levels of cushioning, support, and terrain suitability. All you need to do is let us know your preferences and any specific requirements that you may have.

If you’re serious about running and especially if it’s a new hobby for you, we would strongly recommend getting a gait analysis. This will help you to select an appropriate pair of trainers that can help support the foot and ankle, as well as improve and accommodate your running technique. By getting a gait analysis and investing in the right pair of shoes, you’ll be able to help prevent injuries in the long term and eliminate common short term problems such as shin splints.

At Start Fitness, our gait analysis service is free of cost. This means your initial assessment as well as thorough and helpful advice from our trained staff members will be given to you free of charge to help you on your running journey. That being said, if you have a defined budget for a pair of running shoes, please let us know so we can better tailor our recommendations at the end of your gait analysis.

The appointment does not take long, and we can usually complete your analysis and find a suitable pair of shoes within 15 minutes. Sometimes the analysis may take longer if you wish to try on multiple pairs of shoes, but generally the process is very quick and efficient.

No, you don’t need to book an appointment for your gait analysis. You can simply turn up at our store, and there is no need to bring anything with you. Just make sure that you’re dressed in clothing that you’d feel comfortable running in.

If you’re ready to get your gait analysis done, you can come along to one of our city centre stores located in Durham or Newcastle. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer online assessments, as to do your analysis accurately, we need to be able to do a physical examination. However, if you are already aware of your gait type, you can browse through and order a suitable pair of running shoes online. Shop by neutral, wide fitting, or explore the full collection to purchase the best pair for you if you already have the information that you need.