How To Test Your Running Gait

How to Test Your Running Gait

May 29, 2011 | By Nicole Waldo

Run better from your head to your toes. Perfecting your running gait allows you to enhance your performance. Having your running gait tested is important to look at the mechanics of how you move. If your running form is off, it can lead to injury and wasted energy. Many people have their gait checked because of repeated injuries and if their performance is lacking. After getting the results, practice good form to improve your running efficiency.

Step 1

Run in your bare feet while a trained professional watches you. He will watch you run from your back, front and sides, and provide you with results when you have finished.

Step 2

Look ahead naturally. If you are looking down, it will negatively affect your posture.

Step 3

Relax your upper body. Keep your shoulders low and loose. Your shoulders should not dip from side to side.

Step 4

Keep hands in unclenched fists. Swing arms forward and back between your waist and lower chest level. Bend your elbows at 90 degrees. Your arms should not cross in front of your body.

Step 5

Run tall. Keep your torso upright. Lean slightly forward. If the position of your head and shoulders is off, your torso will be off too.

Step 6

Bring your knee up slightly. Run with a quick leg turnover and a short stride. This facilitates a fluid movement. Land your feet directly under your body. Flex your knee when your foot hits the ground.

Step 7

Hit the ground lightly with each step. Land between your heel and the middle of your foot. Quickly roll forward to your toes. When your feet hit the ground, they should not roll to the left or right.