What Is a Running Assessment?

A running assessment is a detailed evaluation of your running mechanics, movement patterns, and physical capabilities. At Novar Sports Physio, we use a science-based, athlete-centred approach combining clinical expertise with advanced video technology to identify what’s holding you back — and how to improve it.

Unlike a quick treadmill check, our comprehensive running assessment looks at your biomechanics, strength, control, and technique to build a complete picture of how you move.

Who Is It For?

Our Running Assessment is perfect for:

• Runners with recurring injuries (shin splints, ITB syndrome, plantar fasciitis, etc.)

• Athletes aiming to improve performance or running efficiency

• Beginners wanting to start running safely

• Triathletes, track athletes, and endurance runners

• Anyone returning to running after surgery or injury

Whether you’re training for your first 5K or your next ultramarathon, we tailor the assessment to meet your goals.

What’s Included in a Running Assessment

1. Treadmill-Based Running Analysis

We start by watching you run. Using high-speed treadmill video analysis, we assess your running mechanics from multiple angles.
We look at:

• Foot strike pattern (heel, midfoot, or forefoot)

• Step length and cadence

• Knee and hip alignment

• Pelvic and trunk stability

• Arm swing coordination

Slow-motion playback helps us spot subtle movement issues that can cause inefficiency or injury. Small adjustments in posture, stride, or cadence can make a big difference in comfort and performance.

2. Strength and Power Testing

Running efficiently depends on how strong and balanced your body is. Using handheld dynamometry and professional testing equipment, we assess:

• Hip, glute, hamstring, quadriceps, and calf strength

• Explosive power and force output

• Muscle imbalances or asymmetries

• Core and trunk stability

These results provide objective data to guide targeted training and prevent overload injuries.

3. Neuromuscular Control Assessment

Strength means little without control. We evaluate how well your brain and body coordinate movement through:

• Balance and proprioception testing

• Single-leg control drills

• Jumping and landing technique

• Coordination and timing

This helps us identify gaps in control that contribute to injuries or inefficient running mechanics.

4. Personalised Feedback and Action Plan

After your assessment, you’ll receive:

• A detailed report outlining your running analysis, strength profile, and key findings

• Video footage with expert commentary and recommendations

• A customised plan with exercises, mobility work, and technique tips

• Guidance on footwear, training load, and recovery

We’ll help you make the right changes to improve performance and prevent future injuries.