Run Smarter With a Running Gait Analysis
Every runner has a unique stride. But how well does your body handle the demands of each mile? Whether you’re working through a running-related injury, returning to training, or looking for ways to improve your performance, running analysis in South Ogden, UT and Ogden Athletic Club can provide valuable insight into how you move. At Bridge Physical Therapy, our Level 1 and Level 2 certified running gait analyst can assess your running mechanics and use those findings to develop an individualized plan that supports your goals.
Look Beyond the Miles to Learn How You Run
Our running analysis uses a systematic, evidence-informed approach to running gait analysis. Rather than simply watching you run and offering general advice, our certified running gait analyst evaluates your movement, running mechanics, mobility, strength, and motor control.
The goal isn’t to create a perfect running form. Each runner moves differently, and those differences are not automatically problems. Instead, your assessment helps identify movement patterns and physical factors that may be relevant to your symptoms, training demands, or performance goals.
At Bridge Physical Therapy, you will work with a physical therapist who has completed both Level 1 and Level 2 RunDNA training. This advanced education provides additional tools for assessing runners, analyzing gait, addressing more complex running-related concerns, and developing individualized strength and movement programs.
Could a Running Gait Analysis Help You?
You don’t have to be injured or an elite athlete to benefit from a closer look at your running mechanics. A running analysis can provide useful information for recreational runners, competitive athletes, and people working toward a return to running.
You may want to consider an assessment if you:
- Experience pain or discomfort during or after running
- Have dealt with recurring running-related injuries
- Are returning to running after an injury or extended break
- Feel that your running stride has changed
- Want to understand your running mechanics better
- Are increasing your mileage, speed, or training demands
- Want individualized exercises based on your movement patterns
- Participate in a sport that requires significant running
- Want to improve your strength, control, or running capacity
Your findings can help your physical therapist determine whether certain aspects of your movement or training should be incorporated into your care plan.
What Happens During a Running Analysis Assessment?
Your visit begins with a medical consultation and comprehensive evaluation by a physical therapist, before any treadmill or gait testing. We’ll review your medical history, running history, current training, previous injuries, symptoms, and goals, and assess whether other physical concerns may be contributing to your running mechanics. This provides important context for the running analysis and helps your therapist develop an appropriate care plan.
The assessment itself generally includes several components:
Runner Readiness Testing
Your running mechanics are observed and analyzed to identify patterns relevant to your symptoms or goals.
Running Gait Analysis
Your running mechanics are observed and analyzed to identify patterns relevant to your symptoms or goals.
Strength and Movement Assessment
Depending on your needs, additional testing may examine your strength and ability to perform and control movements, or perform running-related tasks.
Personalized Recommendations
Your therapist will explain what they found and, when appropriate, recommend exercises, running drills, gait retraining strategies, or changes to your training.
Most importantly, the information gathered during your assessment has a purpose. It helps your physical therapist create a plan based on how you move, rather than relying on generic running advice.
Meet your Running Specialist
Briell Beardslee
PTA | Certified Personal Trainer | TRX Certified | RunDNA Level 1 & 2 Trained
Briell brings a combination of clinical experience and a personal passion for endurance sports to Bridge Physical Therapy. As a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant, certified personal trainer, and active triathlete, she understands the physical demands of running and the importance of proper movement mechanics. With experience in sports medicine and advanced RunDNA training, Briell helps runners better understand their movement patterns, address potential limitations, and work toward their running goals.
Put Better Information Behind Every Step
Running should help you stay active while having fun. If pain, recurring injuries, or questions about your running mechanics are holding you back, it may be time to take a closer look.
At Bridge Physical Therapy, our RunDNA-trained physical therapist can help you understand your movement and identify practical strategies for moving forward. Contact us today to schedule your running analysis in South Ogden, UT and Ogden Athletic Club and discover what your running stride can tell you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Running Analysis
Do I need to be an experienced runner to have a running analysis?
No. A running gait analysis can be useful for runners with different levels of experience and fitness. Your assessment and recommendations will be based on your current abilities, training demands, and individual goals.
Should I bring my running shoes to my assessment?
Yes. Bringing the shoes you typically run in can give your physical therapist additional context about your usual training setup. You may also want to wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to run and complete movement tests. If you rotate between different running shoes, ask whether your physical therapist would like you to bring more than one pair.
Will I need to change the way I run?
Not necessarily. Differences in running form don’t automatically need to be corrected. Your physical therapist will consider your gait alongside your symptoms, physical assessment, training demands, and goals before determining whether gait retraining or other strategies may be useful.
Is Running Analysis covered by insurance?
Running analysis may be covered by insurance, depending on your plan and medical needs. Our team will review your coverage and determine whether your assessment qualifies for insurance billing. If insurance coverage isn’t available, a self-pay option may be offered based on your individual situation.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!