Few jobs outside of being a professional athlete require running…which is one of the many reasons RunDNA loves working with the military – these folks have to run!
Unfortunately, running injury rates are high and costly for the military. $5.2 billion is spent annually on musculoskeletal injuries and the Air Force spends $43 million a year for running related injuries from the knee down at Basic Military Training.
RunDNA teamed up with the United States Air National Guard and ACRWEX to pilot use of the Helix 3D Gait Analysis System and RunDNA App to reduce injuries and boost performance. We’re committed to building faster troops. Early results with the Air National Guard (ANG) showed an average of 90 seconds improvement for the 1.5 mile run test and no reported injuries. Test sites have been identified across the country that will integrate RunDNA technology to assess effectiveness for reducing injuries and boosting performance on the 1.5-mile run.
One unit, the 173rd in Oregon wrote about how they have already started to incorporate the tech for their Airmen. Here is a video showing first-hand the impact that the RunDNA Systematic Approach has had on a group of runners, and their appreciation for the personalized training plans (informed by Helix 3D analysis) delivered right to their phones every day (via the RunDNA App).
Most recreational or novice runners might be hesitant to use technology to enhance performance and reduce injury. Both elite and recreational runners often think, “the only way to get better at running is by running more”.
Key factors that actually improve running performance are:
- Gait analysis and retraining
- Getting the right training load for the runner
- Incorporating strength training and plyometrics
- Personalization of the entire plan
- An accessible and easy way for the runner know their daily work out and track their progress
