ATI Physical Therapy: GPS Watches Valuable in Identifying and Correcting Running Dynamics

The study looked at three components in a runner's gait: cadence, vertical oscillation (VO) and ground contact time (GTC) of the runner's foot. When compared to the gold standard of a motion capture system, the ATI Physical Therapy study found that the fitness watch provided a statistically valid and reliable clinical alternative to a laboratory set-up. Furthermore, when participants were asked to alter their running pattern, the watch was able to detect changes in cadence, VO, and GCT that were similar to the ones detected by the motion capture system.

"The validation of these watches opens the door for a cost-effective way for runners and physical therapists to improve running techniques, helping to avoid immediate injuries and correct issues that could prove to have long-term negative effects to runners," said Adams. "These watches also allow coaches and physical therapists to provide individualized feedback on running form and dynamics outside a laboratory setting where the majority of running takes place."

With the popularity of running worldwide comes a high number of musculoskeletal injuries. In many cases, the modification of a runner's gait has been considered an effective way to manage and minimize these types of injuries. Studies have shown that modifying cadence and VO can positively affect the impact running has on many of the joints in the legs, but before now required expensive laboratory analysis in a controlled (treadmill) environment.

"This study and its results allows us to take the lab outside, adapting a scientific approach in a real world environment and providing real-time feedback that allows modification to the runner's gait to be made on the spot," continued Adams.   

About the study
The study looked at 20 active runners between the ages of 20-55 and had to have run at least 60 minutes per week. Participants wore the Fenix 2 Garmin watch which was compared to the Vicon eight camera motion capture system and a force plate treadmill. This study provides a framework to test other watches and was approved by the University of Delaware Institutional Review Board. For complete study results please contact [email protected]. 

About ATI
ATI is a privately held, nationally recognized healthcare company, specializing in outpatient rehabilitation and adjacent healthcare services. With a focus on delivering a remarkable experience to every patient, every day, ATI has more than 500 locations from coast to coast. ATI was named "Best Physical Therapy Practice in the Nation" by ADVANCE magazine, and was one of the first physical therapy companies in the country to achieve URAC Core Accreditation, a mark of distinction that recognizes its commitment to quality healthcare. Based in Bolingbrook, Illinois, ATI gives back to communities across the country through the ATI Foundation, a non-profit established by ATI, which has provided more than $3 million in resources and funding to children with physical impairments. For more information on ATI Physical Therapy, and a complete list of clinic locations, services and the ATI Foundation, please visit ATIpt.com.

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SOURCE ATI Physical Therapy

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