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JOIN NOWIn-Store Natural Gait Analysis
Let our experts fit you in the right running shoes
The shoes you run or walk in make the biggest difference to your training. Our experts will assess your feet, lower-leg movement and stride, while discussing your goals and any concerns, taking as much time as is needed to find the pair that's perfect for you. Appointments are not necessary but are an option to avoid potentially queuing at busy times.
What is Natural Gait Analysis?
Natural Gait Analysis is a service we offer at Run and Become to match you with the perfect pair of running shoes. Every runner moves differently and running shoes are designed with a variety of support features to reflect these individual needs. Wearing the wrong type of support can increase your risk of discomfort or injury.
To find the best shoes for you, we assess your gait on the path outside our shop for a more authentic, real-world analysis – observing your movement on the surface you're most accustomed to. This allows us to accurately identify not only your foot strike but also how your entire body moves as you run. You also get the chance to test the shoes on a familiar surface.
What happens? Find out in the video...
How does the right pair of running shoes support me?
There are many aspects to the correct balance of support; the fit of the top part of the shoe (uppers), cushioning under your feet, and guidance to enable the best balance of your stride motion and the smoothest ride to minimise shock.
Do I need to know my type of foot strike?
Our Natural Gait Analysis will identify your foot strike. You can discover more here »
How often do I need a gait analysis?
Our body changes over the years, depending on our lifestyle. So the right running shoes one year may no longer be the best the next, if your lifestyle (or work-style) has changed. That's why it's important to have your gait analysed each time you replace your shoes.
Are treadmills and computers more accurate for gait analysis?
Since we opened in 1982 we've seen many different approaches to assessing body movement and foot strike during running-shoe fittings. We've experimented with them, but have never found anything more effective than analysing gait on a naturally firm and stationary surface.
Research has repeatedly shown that people run differently on a treadmill than on the road. On firm ground your legs create a propulsive force to accelerate your body forward: the runner moves while the ground stays still.
On a treadmill, the situation is reversed. Your body stays in the same position (in the forwards-backwards plane) while the belt moves underneath you. Instead of propelling your body forward your leg muscles work to re-position your feet and maintain stability. This change in mechanics means treadmill gait does not always reflect your natural running style.
Additionally, people who aren’t used to treadmills often need time to adjust to the different dynamics, which further alters their gait.
Because most people use their running shoes outdoors – or a mix of outdoors and gym – we base our fittings on gait analysis performed on a hard surface. If you’re looking for running shoes specifically for treadmill or gym use, we can factor that in as well.
Do I need an appointment or can I just pop in?
You are welcome to pop in when it’s most convenient for you – this is what the majority of our customers choose. However, we offer appointments for those who wish to avoid potentially queuing at busy times. Please allow 40 minutes for your fitting.
How often should I change my running shoes?
We recommend replacing your running shoes every 300-500 miles or within a year, whichever comes first. If you are a heavy heel-striker you’ll probably want to change shoes around 300 miles; if you're very light on your feet you’ll get more mileage out of them. Body weight doesn’t have that much effect – we've seen heavy-set rugby players who are super light on their feet and petite builds who strike the ground strongly.
If you're unsure, pop in with your shoes and we'll take a check.
Tips for Buying Running Shoes
Confused about running shoes? Trainers are your most important piece of running kit. Specialists at Run and Become can help find the perfect match for you.
The Best Way to Clean Your Running Shoes
Putting your running shoes in the washing machine is a recipe for disaster! Check out this short video with safe, simple and effective cleaning techniques.
How do I know my foot strike when running?
Knowing your foot strike and gait is crucial when choosing running shoes. Find out if you're neutral, overpronating or supinating, and what to do next.
What to do if your feet turn out while running
Splayed feet? Duck feet? If you're out-toeing during your walk or run, don’t worry – you’re not alone!
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VivAugust 6, 2025 at 5:41am
Hi I’m a walker (mainly county parks uneven ground )not a runner, would gait analysis be beneficial for me Also do you sell trainers to suit walkers ReplyTERESAMay 27, 2025 at 1:10pm
I have just returned from visiting Run and Become Victoria and had superb service from the delightful Queenta! She went above and beyond to make sure I got the best fitting pair of trainers. I am SO impressed at her dedication and expertise. Thank you so much Queenta! I thoroughly recommend the service at Run and Become and the utterly dedicated staff. A big thank you to you all, Warmest wishes, Teresa ReplyRachel BarnettSeptember 7, 2024 at 1:35pm
Hi , I’m looking to get a gait analysis but already have a pair of running shoes. Can I just get a gait analysis done ReplyGrahamMarch 27, 2024 at 5:34pm
Hi there, Are you committed to making a purchase on the day of the gait analysis, or can you buy at a later date? Many thanks, Graham ReplyAnnMarch 28, 2024 at 5:06pm
Hi Graham,
Many thanks for your comment. I suggest to wait until you're ready to purchase to come in for a gait analysis. It's in your best interest, as the process takes time, and our staff who are trained will also value your time in choosing to visit us. Also to note, our stock comes and goes like hot cakes! So the ideal shoes you tried on in-store may not be there at the end of the day.
All the best, Ann
ReplyElla JennerJanuary 14, 2024 at 11:36am
Couldn’t recommend this shop and the ladies enough!!! I was fairly new to running and they helped me find a pair of trainers that I absolutely love and find so comfortable! They didn’t rush you at all and took there time to help me find the right pair. THANK YOU ReplyTanya SJune 30, 2023 at 5:44pm
Huge thank you to Larina at the London store! This is the second time I have received an in-store gait analysis (last one was seven years ago) and both times the advice and recommendations were absolutely fantastic. I went in for both road and trail shoes, and I was guided through the session and presented with multiple options to try on and test. There was ample time allocated for the appointment, and I never felt rushed or pressured. Highly recommend making use of this wonderful service. Thank you Larina, and everyone at Run & Become :) ReplyEmma EatwellJuly 18, 2021 at 12:43pm
Had an appointment for gate analysis in the Cardiff store with Caitlin, she was very friendly, knowledgeable & gave excellent service. I went in for a pair of running trainers & came away with two, feeling very excited to try them out! Thank you :) ReplyRobert PowellJuly 9, 2021 at 1:28pm
Great,
ReplyThat was a wonderful explanation.
I will be popping in to the London store tomorrow afternoon and get this done.
Thank you.
Robert
TheoApril 16, 2021 at 8:39am
Had a great experience in the store and even during COVID times they were still able to give me all the attention I needed and definitely picked the right pair of shoes for me. Could not have asked for more professional and friendly staff! ReplyNina FeldmanMarch 3, 2021 at 5:50pm
The service I received was really great. I had an online/phone gait analysis and then bought two pairs of shoes as I wasn’t sure of my size. I was able to send the pair that didn’t fit back easily and quickly received a refund. And I am very happy with my new running shoes. I would recommend Run and Become wholeheartedly. ReplyKonstantinos VarvagiannisDecember 9, 2020 at 12:55pm
Hello,I would like to know the cost of the gait analysis and the cost of the insoles as well if it is possiple.
Thank you!
Kind regards
Konstantinos Varvagiannis Reply
Dipika SmithDecember 10, 2020 at 3:07pm
Hi Konstantinos,
The gait analysis is a complimentary service when purchasing shoes from us. We do not stock orthotic insoles.
Kind Regards,
ReplyDipika
Patrick JarvisSeptember 17, 2020 at 2:27pm
Hi,I haven't had gait analysis before, but I've recently been suffering from shin splints and knee pains, so I'm looking to pop in soon. Would you advise wearing something less restrictive, or are normal trousers fine?
Many thanks,
Patrick. Reply
Dipika SmithSeptember 21, 2020 at 2:56pm
Hi Patrick, It's great if we can see your ankles and calf muscles. So just rolling up the trousers a little works perfectly. We look forward to seeing you in store. Kind Regards, Dipika ReplyMarianne HotzSeptember 5, 2020 at 8:39am
Hi,My daughter started running cross country 4weeks ago for her high school here in US. We purchased Brooks Adrenalin from our local running store but she has been experiencing lots of ankle/feet/shin pain that forces her to stop running daily. I would so appreciate you to do a gait analysis for her.
Thank you,
Mom Reply
Dipika SmithSeptember 5, 2020 at 5:18pm
Hi Marianne,
Sorry to hear about the pain your daughter is going through. We have three shops in the UK but nothing in the US I'm afraid. We do offer a complimentary gait analysis online when purchasing shoes from us. In case you are interested in this service, kindly see the full details here.
Kind Regards,
Dipika
ReplyRodneyAugust 8, 2020 at 9:09am
Hi,Just wondering what if you do a full body gait analysis? Reply
Marina PekhovichAugust 11, 2020 at 11:03am
Hello Rodney,
ReplyThank you very much for your enquiry.
We analyse the gait in relation to fitting runners with the best suitable running shoes: we observe the landing, how the knees and arches work during the running movement. We also check problems caused by injuries or anatomical imbalances, etc. and help to correct these (as much as possible) with the right shoes. In addition, we try to find shoes to suit your running goals (i.e beginners, 5k and 10k racing, marathon, ultras, etc.).
From such an observation, we can offer more insight on whether the landing technique is working well, suggesting improvements and possibly strengthening certain areas of the body. It is possible to see how anatomical imbalance can affect your running, but we do not offer a detailed full body analysis in this respect.
In case you need to know in detail the causes of certan anatomy-related issues in the body or more information as to your running posture or specific exercises for improvement, we could recommend seeing a physio or a running coach. Please kindly see our Sports Clinic (Physiotherapy and Technique coaching).
Thank you so much!
Kindest Regards
Marina
Run and Become Team
Dee RutterDecember 3, 2019 at 3:54pm
Hi - I've recently had bunion surgery on both feet, having been a runner (triathlete) but not now run for almost a year. I'm almost ready to start again but realise my running gait will no doubt have changed - now that my big toes are straight and I probably need to have a gait analysis done and purchase some new shoes.As some background, it was my knees that were causing my problems with running and led me eventually to having the bunion surgery. My knees are still a little sore but probably not helped by the fact that I'm still wearing my old running shoes.
Have you had any specific experience with post bunion op runners?
I'll pop into your Victoria store, in the next few weeks but in the meantime would be interested in your thoughts.
Thanks, Dee
Reply
Dipika SmithDecember 6, 2019 at 5:27pm
Hi Dee,Sorry to hear that you've been put through it with surgery. Definitely we have good experience with bunions and will be more than happy to go through everything with you in person when you visit the shop.
In the mean time, it my be that a slightly wider shoe would be a good option so that your toes have ample space to be happy. This, married with the correct support should be a winner.
We look forward to seeing you in store soon.
Kind Regards,
Dipika Reply
Dee RutterDecember 10, 2019 at 3:48pm
Hi DipikaThanks for your response - I'm hoping to pop in and see you on Saturday morning this week.
Regards
Dee Reply
Roy frostSeptember 1, 2019 at 3:25pm
Your web site help me no end , I have had a set of trainers ( Brooks ) which was said are my trainers for me , fit nice and feels comfortable , but when running hurt my ankles , i need to pop in to you for your expert advice , Thank you , see you soonReply
Dipika SmithSeptember 2, 2019 at 1:31pm
Hi Roy,
ReplyThank you for reaching out.
Brooks are a great brand and have a good selection of different styles of running shoes. However, your comfort is of utmost importance and so matching each runner to the perfect shoe is what we specialise in.
We very much look forward to welcoming you when you visit our store :)
Dipika