Runeasi: Running Assessment UPGRADE!
We are super excited to include the Runeasi in our running assessments, the first ever scientifically validated biomechanics wearable on the market that allows you to measure the impact while running and detects how the body responds to it!
As a runner, you know how crucial it is to optimize performance while minimizing the risk of injury. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a weekend jogger, understanding your body's mechanics and limitations can make all the difference. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Runeasi, the cutting-edge technology that’s transforming how runners train, recover, and perform.
At BPT, we’ve recently integrated Runeasi into our services, and the results have been nothing short of remarkable. In this blog, we’ll explain how Runeasi works, what a typical session looks like, and how BPT’s physical therapist, KC Bruch, has personally used it to enhance her own running performance.
What is Runeasi?
Runeasi is an advanced 3D gait analysis system used by top running sports medicine clinicians around the world. It leverages biofeedback technology to provide a comprehensive understanding of your running mechanics. Our new technology allows us to provide real-time feedback and make personalized recommendations to help you improve your running form, increase efficiency, and reduce the likelihood of injury. Whether you’re looking to shave seconds off your personal best or simply run pain-free, we will offer actionable insights to help you achieve your goals!
How does an assessment work?
At BPT, we have started using Runeasi as part of a full running assessment that includes video data analysis, specific testing, and Runeasi’s advanced 3D gait analysis. This comprehensive approach gives us a complete picture of your running form and helps us tailor a plan to address your unique performance needs.
Here’s what you can expect during a running analysis session:
Initial Setup:
You’ll wear a lightweight sensor belt equipped with the Runeasi sensor. This sensor connects via Bluetooth to an iPad, providing real-time biofeedback during your run.Data Collection:
As you run on a treadmill, or outdoors, we will perform a video analysis, filming multiple angles and use Runeasi’s software to analyze your movement in real time, breaking down your running quality into three key components:Impact Loading: Measures how much vertical movement you have while running, combining both the magnitude and duration of each step.
Impact magnitude reflects the load your body experiences with each step.
Impact duration shows how quickly the load travels up the leg through your body, indicating how well you absorb impact. A longer duration suggests better force absorption.
Research by Burke et al. (2022) shows that recently injured runners tend to have higher impact magnitude and shorter impact duration compared to non-injured runners.
Dynamic Stability: Measures side-to-side movement while running. Efficient runners minimize energy loss that doesn’t contribute to forward propulsion.
Studies by Schutte et al. (2015 and 2018) have shown that small changes in dynamic stability can lead to increased running fatigue and reduced efficiency.
Pla et al. (2021) also found that poor dynamic stability is a risk factor for developing overuse injuries.
Symmetry: Compares impact loading and dynamic stability between your right and left legs.
Asymmetries can indicate movement compensations, which often persist long after an injury (White et al. 2013 & Thomson et al. 2018). These compensations can contribute to chronic injuries or the development of new ones.
Real-Time Biofeedback:
One of our new software's most powerful features is its ability to provide real-time biofeedback. This allows us to monitor changes in your running parameters instantly and personalize the use of running cues during your session. Real-time feedback makes gait retraining more effective and efficient.Running “Report Card”:
After the session, we generate a detailed running “report card.” This report provides a percentage score that represents your running efficiency and injury risk compared to the general population. It also highlights your weakest link and identifies specific areas for improvement.Actionable Insights:
Based on the data, we create tailored recommendations, such as exercises to correct muscle imbalances, improve force absorption and propulsion, adjustments to your running form, or footwear suggestions. These insights are designed to help you run smarter, not harder.
My Personal Experience with Runeasi - KC Bruch PT, DPT, CSCS
Returning to running after a break is always a mix of excitement and caution, especially when you’re nursing an injury. For me, that injury was a nagging Achilles tendon issue on my right side. I was eager to get back into my routine, but I knew I needed to be smart about it. That’s when I decided to put our new technology to the test—and it completely transformed the way I run.
My assessment revealed that while I had good dynamic stability, my impact loading was poor and uneven, particularly on my right side. This made perfect sense given my Achilles struggles. Even though my calf and Achilles were strong, the stiffness in my tendon wasn’t where it needed to be to handle the demands of running.
I incorporated targeted force absorption drills to help improve tendon stiffness. Within just a few weeks, I noticed an improvement in my running efficiency and a reduction in my tendon pain. The best part? I felt more confident knowing I was running in a way that minimized injury risk
( that’s the PT in me speaking :) )!
Here’s a snapshot of my initial running assessment performed at various speed intervals:
CLIENT STORY…
An experienced runner came to the clinic with a recurring issue: sharp pain in their knee that consistently appeared around the 40-minute mark during runs. They had tried various solutions—stretching, changing shoes, and foam rolling, strength training—but nothing resolved the problem. As their physical therapist, I knew we needed a deeper understanding of what was happening at the 40-minute mark. I had the patient strap on the Runeasi device and I asked the patient to go for a long run before their PT session. The patient stepped outside for a 40-minute run, and when they returned, we immediately reviewed the data together. Around the 35-minute mark, the data revealed two critical changes: a significant decrease in dynamic stability and a reduction in cadence as fatigue set in. Their stride length increased, and their ability to control movement under load diminished. This combination of reduced cadence and loss of stability coincided with their onset of knee pain.
The Runeasi device is a game-changer because it provides immediate, objective insights into running mechanics during actual running conditions. We can have patients use the device prior to our sessions as it doesn't require us to always be with the patient when collecting the data. Runeasi captures real-time data that pinpoints exactly when and how form breaks down.
Together, we developed a plan to address their specific issues: Maintaining dynamic stability under fatigue through dynamic stability drills and reformatting their running training program to help build endurance while minimizing knee pain.
Why Runners Should Try Runeasi:
Injury Prevention: By identifying and addressing biomechanical issues early, Runeasi helps you avoid common running injuries like shin splints, IT band syndrome, and plantar fasciitis.
Performance Optimization: Fine-tune your running form to maximize efficiency and speed.
Personalized Training: Get tailored advice that’s specific to your body and running style.
Data-Driven Progress: Track your improvements over time with objective metrics.
CONCLUSION:
We’re excited to offer this innovative technology to our clients. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, training for a race, or simply looking to run better, we are confident we can help you achieve your goals!