Gait Analysis &
Perfomance Testing
At Precision Performance & Physical Therapy, our performance services are designed for runners who want to train smarter, not just harder. We use evidence-informed testing and runner-specific analysis to help athletes understand how their body responds to training, where inefficiencies exist, and how to optimize performance while reducing injury risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
We can get you the data AND we know that performance is about more than just data. It is about strength, mobility, gait, nutrition, sleep, stress and more. We help you sift through everything so you know what to focus on.
What is VO₂ Threshold Testing for runners?
VO₂ threshold testing measures how efficiently your body uses oxygen at increasing running intensities and helps identify key training zones, including aerobic and anaerobic thresholds.
For runners, VO₂ threshold testing can:
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Improve training precision
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Help determine appropriate paces and intensities
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Reduce guesswork in workouts
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Support performance gains without unnecessary fatigue
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Decrease injury risk
Who should get VO₂ threshold testing?
VO₂ threshold testing is best suited for runners who have been training consistently and want more detailed, individualized data to guide their workouts and performance. The information you receive is only helpful if you know how to implement the changes. It’s not ideal for brand-new runners, as early improvements are better achieved through building consistency, improving movement efficiency, and developing strength rather than focusing on metabolic data. For newer runners or those returning after time away, we typically recommend starting with a Resilient Runner Package or a stand-alone running gait analysis, which focus on fundamentals and create a strong foundation before adding advanced performance testing.
What is resting metabolic rate (RMR) testing?
Resting metabolic rate (RMR) testing measures how many calories your body burns at rest to maintain basic physiological function.
For runners, RMR testing can:
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Provide insight into energy needs
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Support appropriate fueling strategies
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Help identify potential under-fueling
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Assist with performance and recovery planning
RMR testing helps runners understand their baseline energy needs so training and recovery are properly supported.
What is running gait analysis?
Running gait analysis is a detailed assessment of how you move while running, using video, movement testing, and clinical reasoning to understand how forces travel through your body. Gait analysis is about much more than just vertical acceleration rate, cadence and knee flexion angle.
At Precision, gait analysis looks at:
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Running mechanics and movement patterns
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Strength, mobility, and neuromuscular control
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Training history and workload changes
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Past injuries and current symptoms
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How technique, fatigue, and load interact
We don’t believe gait alone causes injury, but inefficient mechanics combined with training errors often do.
Gait analysis is a combination of art, science, clinical reasoning and knowledge. It helps identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce injury risk, and support long-term performance.
Why Runners Choose Precision for Gait Analysis
Our team treats runners all day, every day. We are unapologetically running nerds and proud of it.
When we’re not in the clinic, we:
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Teach physical therapists, physicians, and coaches
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Speak nationally at conferences
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Publish and write about running injuries and performance
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Podcast about running (More than Miles Podcast, Interdisciplinary Case Miles Podcast)
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Work with elite and recreational runners worldwide
We understand the complexity of biomechanics, but we also understand that running injuries are rarely just biomechanical.
Common Issue We See on Run Gait Analysis:
Certain movement patterns may contribute to pain or inefficiency, especially when combined with training errors, fatigue, or strength deficits.
These can include:
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Excessive hip drop or knee valgus
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Reduced knee flexion during loading
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Overstriding or braking mechanics
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Arm swing or trunk control issues
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Postural changes with fatigue
These patterns may be associated with:
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Knee, hip, or back pain
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Foot and ankle injuries
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Hamstring or calf issues
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Slower times and increased fatigue
Important: We never “correct” gait in isolation. Changes only matter if they improve performance, reduce symptoms, and fit your training goals.
What to Expect with a Run Gait Analysis
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Full review of your running history, injuries, and goals
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Assessment of strength, mobility, and motor control
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Running shoe assessment and guidance
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High-quality video gait analysis (treadmill or outdoor)
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Immediate visual and verbal feedback
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Education around training, load, and recovery
All About Run Gait Analysis.
Knee valgus, hip drop and dysfunctional arm swing can lead to knee, hip and back pain. It can also lead to foot and ankle dysfunction and slower times.
Poor posture, overstriding and decreased knee flexion at initial contact can create slower times, back pain and issues with your hamstring among other things!
