Foot Mapping & Gait Analysis

Gait analysis provides runners with essential information about their running style. This is important however long they have been running, as only through knowing their running style will they be able to select the right shoes. The right running shoes are important as they can maximise both running performance and potential, as well as minimising the risk of injury, such as painful shins and joints.

The major focus of gait analysis is to measure the degree of pronation. Pronation is the natural inward roll of the foot as the outside part of the heel strikes the ground. This roll acts as a shock absorber for the leg and body, optimally distributing the force of the impact of the heel hitting the ground. Overpronation is when the feet roll inward too much and underpronation (or supination) is where the feet don’t roll inward enough. Gait analysis matches the runner’s degree of pronation with the correct shoe type, with the aims of counter-balancing over or underpronation, helping reduce the risk of injury and improving running efficiency.

Video gait analysis is simple. It involves running for a few minutes on a treadmill while a video is made of the runner’s feet. This footage is then slowed down and analysed in detail by an ASICS professional who will explain the findings. Runners can then try a variety of shoes selecting cushioning, structured cushioning or maximum support options according to the results.

As well as helping runners to find the right shoe through assessing the moment of the foot, video gait analysis also looks at the leg and body’s movement and efficiency to see if the analysis can help the runner further. By slowing the video down and viewing the different running stages in detail, ASICS representatives can help identify certain movements which may be triggering injuries or affecting running efficiency. If appropriate, the ASICS representative can also make product suggestions to help overcome any issues identified.

3D Foot Mapping is the most advanced version of video gait analysis which, in addition to video, uses both lasers and micro cameras to create a highly detailed 3D image of the foot. A range of information obtained from the scan, such as arch height and the alignment of the achilles with the leg, is assessed to source the perfect running shoe and could even help runners get to the root of any recurrent injuries. Runners can also choose to have their data stored in a huge database for their future reference, which also contributes to ASICS research for future running shoes. 3D foot mapping is unique to ASICS and available to customers via Running Clinics or the ASICS London store which is the only store that has the 3D foot mapping equipment in permanent residence.

Once a runner understands their running style, gait and which type of shoe they need, they’re ready to look at the wide range of shoe styles available. Visit your local retailer or the online product catalogue to find out more.

Further advice

ASICS Running Clinics Pro Team can offer advice on training - click the links below to see their advice.

	ASICS Running Clinics Why should I attend an ASICS Running Clinic? Why should I have my Running Gait analysed? How do I know which ASICS Shoe is right for me?			Podiatrist Selecting the Right Running Shoe for your Needs