Symmetry of Gait

We capture data such as speed, distance, heart rate, power, etc. with tremendous zeal, and now wearables have provided us with further metrics to support our quest for improved movement quality and performance. One such metric is symmetry. Symmetry may vary considerably intra joint and limb and comparatively amongst individuals depending on the parameters of interest. Gross outcome measures such as ground contact time, stride length, loading, loading rates, etc., don’t elucidate asymmetrical etiologies, yet may have tremendous value in gait evaluation, injury risk reduction and performance enhancement. Some level of asymmetry between limbs is expected given we aren’t entirely symmetrical beings.  

A recent study published in Human Movement Science investigated running experience as it related to symmetry of various gait parameters. Researchers reported generally lower asymmetry in competitive runners versus less experienced runners (Mo et al., 2020). Previous research has found an asymmetric gait increases mechanical and metabolic demands (Beck et al., 2018; Ellis et al., 2013) suggesting recreational runners work on reducing bilateral asymmetry to improve their running economy.

 Asymmetry may be obvious when injured, but less so when ‘healthy’. One hugely advantageous aspect of wearables is the possibility of longitudinal data capture. By measuring and tracking your symmetry across variables over time you may not only be able to track progress returning from injury, but possibly averting injury altogether.