Running Gait Analysis

Project
By: Lilli Deleon, Griffin Hartshorn,
Christine Jimenez, Jalen Parks, and
Julian Read
Abstract
In our experiment, we analyzed Julian’s Running Gait. In this, we cut down his
running into six phases: initial contact, midstance, take off, initial swing, mid swing,
and terminal swing. When analyzing each phase, we will measure his body lean,
Center of gravity, body angle in drive phase, alignment of ASIS, pelvic tilt angle, hip
extension, knee flexion, tibial Rotation, valgus and varus angle, ankle Dorsiflexion,
and position of the foot. With the measurements we found, we will compare those
measurements to the average measurements to see if there are any discrepancies.
If there are discrepancies, we will explain the possible injuries and complications
Julian will face when running. We will explain certain exercises and techniques
which will prevent injuries and improve Julian’s Running performance in the future.
Introduction
● The gait cycle is a constant cycle of six phases: heel strike, foot flat,
mid-stance, heel-off, toe-off, and mid-swing.
● When running or walking, analyzing an athlete's gait is critical to observe
in order to prevent potential injury.
● The purpose of this project is to learn and analyze the biomechanics of
running gait in an athlete. We will explain running gait and its importance
for an athlete’s performance and health.
Running Video
● http://www.hudl.com/technique/video/view/OvAeTNHm
○ Side View of Julian Running with shoes

● http://www.hudl.com/technique/video/view/2b31dd45
○ Side View of Julian Running without shoes

● http://www.hudl.com/technique/video/view/yrDWeKmC
○ Anterior and Posterior View of Julian Running with shoes

● http://www.hudl.com/technique/video/view/CA55P8bG
○ Anterior and Posterior View of Julian Running without shoes
Pictures with Shoes and without Shoes
Initial Contact Phase
Mid-Stance Phase
Take Off Phase
Initial Swing Phase
Mid-Swing Phase
Terminal Swing Phase
Body Lean Angle
Measured from the
greater trochanter
against a vertical line

6° w/o shoes

13˚ w/ shoes
Center of Gravity
Measured from the
landing foot before the
mid-stance against a
vertical line based at the
greater trochanter

6° w/o shoes

14˚ w/ shoes
Body Angle in Drive Phase
Measured from the greater
trochanter to the right ear
against a vertical line from
the greater trochanter

21° w/o shoes

15˚ w/ shoes
Alignment of ASIS
Front View
Pelvic Tilt Angle with and without Shoes
Hip Extension
Measured from femur to
femur during the drive
phase or takeoff

97°/91°
Knee Flexion
Measured from the foot to the
greater trochanter, with a
fulcrum at the knee

During the initial swing or while

both feet are off the ground

65° w/o shoes

85˚ w/ shoes
Tibial Rotation
Measured at the tibia against the
direct line of the Achilles

During Drive Phase

175° /176°
Ankle Dorsiflexion

Angle of dorsiflexion in
midstance with shoes

Rt: 2° Lt: 1°
Measurements- average and discrepancies
- We recorded Julian’s running gait for 20 yards: front,, back, and both sides
- Body lean is at 6° and should be closer to 0°
- This will allow him to gain more momentum
- All tilt angles were within the ideal range (with and without shoes)
- Valgus angles were 180° and 179° which is perfect
- Less at risk for an MCL or ACL strain
Major differences
- Julian’s right and left angle of dorsiflexion are way below the
average measurements
- Important to remember: he is a forefoot-runner
- Knee flexion: 56°: Left 72° :Right
- This high knee flexion angle can cause high muscle stress
and constraints
Average Velocity
- Velocity - the speed of something in a
given direction
- Calculated with equation: Distance =
Rate x Time
- 8 yds. = Rate x 1 second
- Rate = 7.32 meters per second
Ground Reaction Force
- Ground Reaction Force- force exerted by
the ground on a body in contact with it
- Calculated with formula : GRF =
Force(average)/ body weight
- GRF= 2.5N/76.2 kg
- GRF= .0328 N/kg
Tibial Torque
- Tibial Torque- inward twisting of the shin bone
- Calculated with formula: Torque = GRF/Stride
Distance
- Torque= .0328 N/kg /2.134m
- Torque= .0154 N/ kg x m
SO WE CONCLUDE
● One major issue Julian has while running is crossing his foot while in the mid-stance
phase.
● This could be a sign weak glutes so in improving his performance, he should do glute
exercises.
● Some exercises include theraband bridges, resistance band monster walks, and doing
side planks with a resistance band above the patella and abducting the legs.
● Julian also has an excessive anterior body lean while running.
● This will cause Julian to overuse his lower back and glute muscles.
● This can also be a sign of a weak core.
● Julian will have to do core strengthening exercises such as planks and sit ups.
● Also someone can verbally correct Julian while running which can help him have the
muscle memory to prevent forward lean.