What is Gait Analysis?
Gait analysis is the systematic study of human locomotion—how we walk and run. Using technology ranging from simple video to sophisticated AI-powered motion capture, gait analysis quantifies the biomechanics of movement to understand patterns, identify problems, and optimize performance.
While humans have observed walking patterns for centuries, modern gait analysis emerged from biomechanics research in the 20th century. Today, AI and computer vision have made detailed gait assessment accessible beyond elite sports laboratories, bringing this powerful tool to running shops, fitness centres, and rehabilitation clinics.
Why Gait Analysis Matters
Running and walking are complex motor patterns involving coordinated movements of hundreds of muscles, bones, and joints. Small deviations from optimal patterns can:
- Increase injury risk: 37-56% of recreational runners experience injuries annually, many related to biomechanical factors
- Reduce efficiency: Poor mechanics waste energy and limit performance
- Create asymmetry: Side-to-side differences increase stress on specific tissues
- Indicate underlying problems: Gait changes often signal injury, fatigue, or neurological conditions
Gait analysis provides the data needed to identify and address these issues before they become serious problems.
What Does Gait Analysis Measure?
Temporal Parameters
- Cadence: Steps per minute (typically 160-180 for efficient running)
- Stride length: Distance covered per stride
- Ground contact time: Duration foot is on the ground
- Flight time: Duration both feet are airborne (running only)
- Stride rate variability: Consistency of timing
Spatial Parameters
- Step width: Lateral distance between feet
- Foot strike pattern: Heel, midfoot, or forefoot contact
- Stride symmetry: Comparison between left and right
- Vertical oscillation: Up-and-down movement during running
Joint Kinematics
- Hip angles: Flexion, extension, adduction, abduction, rotation
- Knee angles: Flexion at contact and midstance, valgus/varus alignment
- Ankle angles: Dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, pronation/supination
- Trunk position: Forward lean, lateral tilt, rotation
Force and Pressure
- Impact forces: Peak forces at foot strike
- Loading rate: How quickly force is applied
- Pressure distribution: Where force is concentrated on the foot
- Propulsion: Force generated during push-off
How Modern Gait Analysis Works
Video-Based Analysis
The most accessible form uses standard or high-speed cameras to record movement. Software or trained analysts review footage to identify issues. Limitations include 2D perspective (missing depth information) and reliance on visual assessment.
Marker-Based Motion Capture
Reflective markers placed on key body points are tracked by multiple cameras to create precise 3D movement data. Gold standard for research but requires specialized equipment, trained operators, and significant setup time.
Markerless AI Motion Capture
Computer vision algorithms identify body segments from video without physical markers. Modern systems track 17+ skeletal points at 30fps or higher, providing laboratory-quality data without the complexity. This technology powers advanced systems like the Visbody Creator600.
Wearable Sensors
IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units) worn on shoes or body measure acceleration, rotation, and orientation during natural running. Useful for field-based analysis but less precise than optical systems for joint angles.
Pressure Systems
Force plates or in-shoe sensors measure ground reaction forces and pressure distribution. Critical for understanding impact loading and foot function.
Applications of Gait Analysis
Running Injury Prevention
Research identifies biomechanical risk factors for common injuries:
- IT band syndrome: Associated with hip adduction, internal rotation
- Patellofemoral pain: Linked to knee valgus, weak hip abductors
- Achilles tendinopathy: Related to excessive ankle motion, high loading rates
- Tibial stress fractures: Associated with high impact forces, narrow step width
- Plantar fasciitis: Connected to pronation patterns, tight calves
Identifying these factors allows targeted interventions before injuries develop.
Performance Enhancement
Elite athletes and recreational runners use gait analysis to:
- Optimize cadence and stride length for efficiency
- Reduce vertical oscillation (wasted energy)
- Improve propulsion and ground contact mechanics
- Correct asymmetries that limit performance
- Adapt technique for different distances or terrain
Rehabilitation
Gait analysis guides rehabilitation from:
- Lower limb surgeries (ACL reconstruction, joint replacement)
- Running injuries during return-to-sport progression
- Neurological conditions affecting movement
- Post-stroke recovery
Footwear Selection
Matching running shoes to individual gait patterns improves comfort and may reduce injury risk. Analysis identifies:
- Pronation/supination patterns
- Stability requirements
- Cushioning needs based on impact characteristics
- Drop (heel-toe differential) preferences
The Visbody Creator600: Next-Generation Gait Analysis
The Visbody Creator600 represents a new category of intelligent treadmill that integrates AI-powered gait analysis with innovative training technology.
Key Technology Features
- 17+ gait metrics at 30fps: Real-time tracking of skeletal points for comprehensive analysis
- Vertical-plane head-up technology: Unique design encourages natural, upright running posture
- AI invisible safety tether: Position monitoring with automatic emergency stop—no physical restraints needed
- Dynamic joint monitoring: Real-time force distribution analysis across major joints
- Virtual training environments: Immersive scenarios for engaged, effective training
Why Head-Up Running Matters
Traditional treadmill running encourages "head-down" posture to watch the belt, leading to:
- Poor spinal alignment
- Reduced respiratory capacity
- Unnatural gait patterns
- Neck and shoulder tension
The Creator600's vertical-plane display promotes natural, upright running with eyes forward—matching outdoor running biomechanics and improving both posture and performance.
Explore the Visbody Creator600 →
Getting a Gait Analysis in the UK
Where to Find Gait Analysis
- Running speciality shops: Basic video analysis, often free with shoe purchase
- Physiotherapy clinics: Clinical assessment, injury focus (£50-150)
- Sports performance centres: Comprehensive analysis with advanced technology (£75-200)
- University sports science labs: Research-grade equipment, detailed reports (£100-250)
- Podiatry clinics: Focus on foot function and orthotics (£75-150)
What to Expect
A typical gait analysis session includes:
- History taking: Injury history, training volume, goals
- Static assessment: Posture, flexibility, strength screening
- Dynamic assessment: Walking and running at various speeds
- Data analysis: Review of key metrics and comparisons to norms
- Recommendations: Specific interventions based on findings
- Follow-up plan: Exercises, footwear advice, re-assessment schedule
Making Changes Based on Gait Analysis
Technique Modifications
Gait retraining can address:
- Cadence: Increasing step rate by 5-10% reduces impact forces
- Foot strike: Transitioning strike pattern (with appropriate transition period)
- Hip drop: Strengthening hip abductors to improve stability
- Overstriding: Landing with foot closer to center of mass
Strength and Mobility Work
Common interventions include:
- Hip abductor strengthening (glute medius, minimus)
- Core stability exercises
- Ankle mobility work
- Single-leg stability training
- Calf strength and Achilles loading
Footwear and Orthotics
Based on gait analysis, recommendations may include:
- Motion control or stability shoes for excessive pronation
- Neutral shoes with appropriate cushioning
- Custom orthotics for specific foot function issues
- Changes in shoe drop or stack height
Conclusion
Gait analysis has evolved from a laboratory research tool to an accessible technology that benefits runners of all levels. Whether preventing injuries, enhancing performance, or guiding rehabilitation, understanding how you move is the foundation for moving better.
Modern AI-powered systems like the Visbody Creator600 make detailed gait analysis available in real-time, enabling continuous feedback and optimization rather than single-session snapshots. For facilities serving runners and athletes, these tools represent the future of movement assessment and training.