Fitter Radio Episode 481 - Dr Kim Hebert-Losier: Unlocking Your Running Potential – Biomechanics and Super Shoes.

Dr Kim Hébert-Losier trained as a physiotherapist in Canada in 2006 and worked as a musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapist before undertaking research on clinical testing procedures and calf muscle function in New Zealand. Kim then undertook research in human movement science and sports performance in Sweden, USA and Malaysia before returning to New Zealand where she is now employed as a Senior Lecturer in Health, Sport and Human Performance. Kim is one of the founding members of the sport science team based at the University of Waikato Adams Centre for High Performance.

With Kim's extensive background in physiotherapy, research and sports science, she offers valuable perspectives on the relationships between running technique, efficiency, and technology. We discuss the Volodalen score, a system that analyzes running technique by examining key aspects such as vertical oscillation, arm movement, pelvis position, stride length and foot strike patterns.

We dive into the world of cadence and 'super shoes' as we discuss their impact on running economy and the pros and cons of using specialised footwear. Gain insight into how smartwatches can help monitor your cadence and how a properly adjusted step rate can benefit your joints without sacrificing efficiency.

Lastly Kim also shared her thoughts on the potential of biomechanical analysis to predict running injuries and the crucial role of load management in injury prevention.

LINKS:

More about Dr Kim Hébert-Losier at https://profiles.waikato.ac.nz/kim.hebert-losier

Follow Dr Kim Hébert-Losier on Twitter at https://twitter.com/kimhebertlosier

Aerial and Terrestrial Patterns: A Novel Approach to Analyzing Human Running study at https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282219786_Aerial_and_Terrestrial_Patterns_A_Novel_Approach_to_Analyzing_Human_Running

Advancements in Running Shoe Technology and Their Effects on Running Economy and Performance - a Current Concepts Overview Study at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35993160/