Whether you’re a first time runner or seasoned pro, Physio Molly is here at Function101 to help you with all your running needs! A running assessment can be one of the most valuable tools for improving performance, preventing injury, and getting the most out of your training.
So, what actually happens during a running assessment with a physiotherapist, and what should you expect from the process?
🩺 Step 1: Understanding Your Running History and Goals
Your session usually starts with a conversation. Your physiotherapist will ask about:
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Your training routine (how often, how far, what surfaces you run on)
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Any current or past injuries
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Your shoes and how long you’ve had them
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Your goals — whether that’s running pain-free, improving speed, or preparing for a race
This helps your physio understand your unique needs and identify potential risk factors before you even step on the treadmill.
🦵 Step 2: Physical Assessment
Next comes a musculoskeletal assessment. This may include:
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Checking joint mobility (hips, knees, ankles)
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Testing muscle strength and flexibility
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Assessing balance and core stability
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Many running injuries stem from weakness or tightness in certain muscle groups — such as glutes, calves, or hamstrings — so your physio will look for any imbalances that could affect your running form.
🏃♀️ Step 3: Gait Analysis
Here’s the fun part — you’ll be asked to run while your physio is analysing your gait from different angles (usually side and back views).
Your physio will analyze your running gait by looking at:
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Foot strike pattern (heel, midfoot, forefoot)
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Stride length and cadence
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Pelvic and knee alignment
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Arm swing and posture
This detailed breakdown helps reveal subtle movement patterns that may contribute to pain or inefficiency.
🧠 Step 4: Review and Recommendations
After the analysis, your physio will walk you through the findings. Based on the results, you’ll get:
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Form correction tips (like adjusting cadence or stride)
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Targeted exercises to strengthen weak areas or improve flexibility
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Footwear advice — sometimes the wrong shoes are half the problem
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A personalized plan to help you run more efficiently and comfortably
🏋️ Step 5: Follow-Up and Progress
Running assessments aren’t just a one-time event — they’re part of an ongoing process. Many runners benefit from periodic reassessments to track improvement, refine technique, and stay injury-free as training intensifies.
💡 Physio Tip: Prevention Is Better Than Rehab
Even if you’re not currently injured, a running assessment can help you catch potential problems early. Small tweaks to form or strength training can make a big difference in your performance and longevity as a runner.
✅ Ready to Run Smarter?
If you’ve been struggling with pain while running — or simply want to improve your efficiency — book a Running Assessment with our physio Molly today.
We’ll help you understand your body, optimize your movement, and keep you running strong and pain-free.
