Whether you’re lacing up for your first 5K or training for your tenth marathon, running is more than just putting one foot in front of the other. It’s a repetitive, high-impact movement that requires your body to work in harmony. But even the most experienced runners can fall into habits or movement patterns that put them at risk of injury, or hold them back from their true performance potential.
That’s where a Gait Scan comes in.
At Activate Physio, we believe that understanding how your body moves is one of the most important steps toward running better, running longer, and running injury-free. A Gait Scan gives us insight into the unique mechanics of your stride, allowing us to tailor treatment, prevention strategies, and performance programs specifically for you.
So what exactly is a Gait Scan—and why should every runner consider one? Let’s dive in.
What is a Gait Scan?
A Gait Scan is a computerized analysis that examines how you walk or run. It helps us assess the way your feet contact the ground, how your weight is distributed throughout your stride, and whether your movement patterns are efficient—or potentially harmful.
Using a pressure-sensitive mat or in-shoe sensor, the scan collects thousands of data points in just seconds. These data help us assess:
– Pressure distribution under your feet
– Timing and coordination of each phase of your step
– Any imbalances, such as overpronation (foot rolls in too much) or supination (foot rolls out too much)
– Asymmetries between your left and right side
It’s a bit like an X-ray for your walking or running form, but without the radiation. This technology allows us to uncover things you might not even be aware of, from subtle instabilities to inefficient mechanics that could lead to injury over time.
Why Your Gait Matters
Your gait is more than just your foot hitting the ground—it’s a full-body movement that affects your ankles, knees, hips, lower back, and posture. A small issue with how your foot strikes the ground can have a ripple effect all the way up the kinetic chain.
Here are a few common problems that can stem from poor gait mechanics:
– Plantar fasciitis (pain in the heel or arch of the foot)
– Shin splints
– Achilles tendinopathy
– Runner’s knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome
– ITB syndrome (pain along the outer thigh or knee)
– Hip and lower back pain
Many of these issues are preventable—or at least manageable—with the right insights from a gait scan. Identifying and correcting faulty movement early on can mean the difference between consistent progress and recurring injury.
Gait Scans at Any Stage of Your Running Journey
You don’t need to be injured to benefit from a gait scan. In fact, one of the best times to get a gait assessment is when everything feels fine. It allows you to build a strong foundation and prevent injuries before they start.
Here’s how a gait scan supports you at every stage:
Beginner Runners:
Starting out can be exciting—but also risky. Your body is still adapting to new stresses, and poor habits can sneak in early. A gait scan can help you establish correct movement patterns and reduce the risk of developing overuse injuries.
Intermediate Runners:
As your mileage increases, so does the wear and tear on your body. If you’re starting to feel persistent tightness, soreness, or small niggles, a gait scan can reveal if your biomechanics are to blame—and guide you toward effective solutions.
Advanced Runners & Athletes:
When you’re pushing for a personal best or running high weekly mileage, even the smallest inefficiencies can cost you speed—or cause injury. A gait scan helps identify subtle imbalances that could be hindering your performance or recovery.
Think of it like a wheel alignment for your car. Even if the car drives fine now, if it’s slightly off-center, it will wear down faster and less evenly. Your body deserves that same proactive care.
From Gait Scan to Personalised Treatment
At Activate Physio, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Your body, goals, and running style are completely unique—and so should be your care plan.
Your gait scan results serve as a powerful tool in designing a tailored treatment or performance program. Here’s how we use the data:
Custom orthotic prescription (if needed) to help correct foot mechanics
– Footwear advice to ensure you’re in the right running shoes for your gait type
– Strength and mobility programs to target any muscle imbalances or instability
– Running technique coaching, including cadence, foot strike, and posture
– Injury rehabilitation built on your specific biomechanical needs
We don’t just assess your feet—we look at your entire movement chain. Because often, what shows up in the feet is the result of compensation somewhere else in the body.
Why Choose Activate Physio for Your Gait Scan?
At Activate Physio, we bring together clinical expertise, advanced technology, and a genuine passion for helping people move better. Whether you’re an occasional jogger, a dedicated marathoner, or someone simply looking to walk pain-free, we’re here to help.
We take the time to explain your gait scan results in plain English. No confusing terminology—just clear, friendly guidance on what’s happening, why it matters, and what we can do about it together.
Let’s Get You Moving Better
Running should feel strong, smooth, and enjoyable—not painful or frustrating. With a gait scan at Activate Physio, you’re taking a smart step toward protecting your body and unlocking your full potential as a runner.
Ready to take that step?
Book your Gait Scan with our friendly team at Activate Physio today. We’re here to help you run smarter, recover faster, and go further.