Gait Analysis

What is a GaitTest?

Before recommending running shoes, we want to know not only the distances you run, how often, or on what surfaces, but also to get to know your feet: how they move during running, what your foot’s landing support looks like, and your cadence. Only after performing the test will we recommend the running shoes that best suit you, and if we see that you need a consultation with an orthopedist or physiotherapist, we will refer you to trusted specialists.

Why is a Gait Test Necessary?

When choosing running shoes, you’ll encounter an overwhelming variety. Every foot and running style is different, and to run comfortably, you need to understand the differences between running shoes and know how to choose the right ones for you. Feet vary in size, geometric shape, proportions of their parts, and arch height – so what works for one person may not work for another.

Most people’s feet tend to overpronate. Ignoring this and continuing to run in unsuitable shoes can cause your legs to tire faster, increase the risk of injuries, and damage your knee and hip joints. The right shoes help control and correct overpronation if it is significantly pronounced.

Equally important is how you run. During the foot test, we discuss running technique at length, analyze how your feet strike the ground, and determine whether you run efficiently. Running may seem like a simple movement at first glance, but we often unconsciously adopt walking habits while running, which can lead to various pains and injuries. There is no single perfect running technique, but by identifying harmful movements, we will offer advice on how to make your running more beneficial for your body.

Benefits of the GaitTest

• You will rediscover your feet: learn about your arch height, pronation level, running style, and which type of shoe is best for you;
• You will receive valuable tips on how to improve your running technique and avoid related injuries;
• You will have the opportunity to try on new running shoes on a treadmill;
• You will find out your foot size and width;
• You will learn more about different types of running shoes and their differences;
• Bring any questions related to running – we’ll do our best to answer them.

Sportpoint consultants are professionals in their field, though not doctors. We want to help you choose the shoes that best suit your feet, but if after the test we determine that shoes alone are not enough – we will first refer you to specialists such as orthopedists and physiotherapists.

Gait Test Procedure

• Registration and running discussion;
• Discussion of your goals;
• Running on a treadmill;
• Reviewing video footage and providing feedback;
• Recommendation of 3 different pairs of running shoes;
• Treadmill trial of the running shoes;
• Identification of the best-suited running shoes.

IMPORTANT: We schedule our time and yours, so please register for the foot test.

What Does the Running Shoe Selection Look Like at the Sportpoint Store?

How Much Does the Gait Test Cost?

The Foot Test costs 15 EUR.

Tips Before Coming:

• If you have them, bring your current running shoes – they have a lot to tell about you;
• Don't forget your running socks, as they are needed for shoe measurements;
• Dress comfortably – you will need to run on the treadmill;
• Plan your time. We will need about half an hour with you – you’ll be measured for more than one pair;
• If possible, it’s better to come after a workout or later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen as they would be during running.

Interesting Facts:

• 25% of the bones in your body are in your feet.
• When you start moving, about 200 muscles begin to work.
• If you injure your toe’s nail, it takes 5–6 months for it to regrow.
• Running shoe manufacturers recommend replacing your pair after approximately 800 km, but this depends on your weight, running surface, technique, etc. Heavier runners may wear out the cushioning and stabilizing materials in their shoes faster than lighter runners. For example, if you run about 130 km per month, you should replace your running shoes every 4–6 months.
• Even at a slow pace, you burn 10 kcal per minute. This means that in half an hour of running, you’ll burn about half a chocolate bar.
• Running in cold weather is safer than in the heat – there’s a lower risk of dehydration.