Whether you’re chasing a new personal best, preparing for your first 10K, or simply running to stay fit and clear your mind how you run matters.
Running is one of the most natural forms of movement, but it's also one of the most common sources of injury. From shin splints to knee pain to recurring plantar fasciitis, many runners find themselves sidelined by issues that are often preventable.
At Vancity Physio, we believe in empowering athletes recreational or competitive with the tools they need to move better and stay injury-free. That’s why we’re proud to offer Comprehensive Running Assessments led by our highly skilled Physiotherapist Sam, who specializes in running mechanics, movement analysis, and injury prevention.
🏃♂️ What is a Running Assessment?
A Running Assessment is a one-on-one physiotherapy session that evaluates your running technique, biomechanics, strength, flexibility, and movement patterns. The goal is to identify inefficiencies, detect potential injury risks, and create a plan to help you run more effectively.
Think of it as a tune-up for your body giving you personalized insights that can enhance performance, reduce pain, and keep you running longer.
💡 Why Does Running Form Matter?
Running may seem simple just put on your shoes and go but efficient, pain-free running actually depends on a complex chain of movement across your entire body.
Poor mechanics, muscle imbalances, and joint restrictions can quietly lead to:
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Overuse injuries (e.g., IT band syndrome, patellofemoral pain, Achilles tendinopathy)
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Decreased performance and increased fatigue
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Recurring pain despite rest or rehab
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Compensation patterns that affect other joints over time
By addressing these issues before they turn into injuries, or by solving the root cause of existing pain, a running assessment can have a dramatic impact on both your short- and long-term goals.
👋 Meet Sam – Your Running-Specialized Physiotherapist
Physiotherapist Sam brings a passion for movement and years of clinical experience helping runners stay strong, efficient, and injury-free.
With a background in sports physiotherapy and a deep understanding of biomechanics, Sam uses evidence-based techniques to assess your body as a system not just isolated symptoms. He’s worked with a wide range of runners, from weekend joggers to competitive racers, and his approach is always individualized and results-driven.
What sets Sam apart:
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Expert in gait analysis and functional movement screening
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Experience with rehabilitating running injuries
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Deep knowledge of training loads and performance optimization
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Skilled in educating runners on technique, footwear, and form adjustments
🧪 What to Expect During Your Running Assessment
Your 60-minute session with Sam includes:
✅ 1. Detailed History & Goal Setting
You’ll start with a conversation about your running habits, injury history, goals (e.g., pain reduction, faster race time), and current training load. This gives context for the assessment.
✅ 2. Full-Body Movement Screen
Sam will assess joint mobility, muscle strength, control, and flexibility particularly around key running areas like the hips, knees, ankles, and core.
✅ 3. Video Gait Analysis
Using high-speed video, Sam will record and analyze your running form on a treadmill from multiple angles. This allows him to break down:
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Stride length
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Cadence (steps per minute)
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Foot strike pattern (heel, midfoot, forefoot)
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Pelvic and trunk control
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Arm swing and postural alignment
✅ 4. Technique Review & Feedback
Sam will walk you through the findings using clear, easy-to-understand visuals. You’ll get immediate feedback on what you’re doing well and what could be improved.
✅ 5. Customized Treatment & Exercise Plan
Based on your results, you’ll receive a personalized home program to address any weaknesses or imbalances. This may include:
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Strength training
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Mobility drills
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Running technique cues
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Training modifications
If necessary, further sessions can be booked to monitor progress, adjust your plan, or include hands-on therapy.
🎯 Who Can Benefit from a Running Assessment?
This assessment is ideal for runners of all levels, including:
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🏃 New Runners: Learn proper form and avoid developing bad habits early on
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💥 Injured Runners: Identify the underlying cause of chronic or recurring pain
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🎽 Competitive Athletes: Improve stride efficiency, speed, and recovery
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👟 Returning to Running: Post-injury or post-partum, get back safely and confidently
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🧍♀️ Everyday Movers: Even if you just run for general fitness, better movement is always worth investing in
🗓️ Book Your Running Assessment Today
Invest in your stride, your health, and your longevity as a runner. Whether you’re training for a race or running for fun, Sam’s Running Assessment at Vancity Physio is your opportunity to move better, feel better, and run stronger.
📍 Vancity Physio – Vancouver’s Trusted Movement Specialists
🗓️ Now booking Running Assessments with Physiotherapist Sam
📞 Call us at 604-398-5584
🌐 Or book online: https://vancityphysio.janeapp.com/locations/vancity-physio-fairview-clinic/book
🙌 Ready to Run Smarter?
Don’t let pain or poor form hold you back. With expert insight, personalized care, and actionable strategies, you’ll leave your session with Sam feeling empowered and ready to take your running to the next level.
Your best run is ahead of you let’s get there together!
