Why on-field running training is essential during rehabilitation
Walking and running seem like natural movements, but after surgery or injury, that is often no longer the case. At Fysioplein We regularly observe that athletes unconsciously adapt their way of moving. Therefore, within longer treatment trajectories, we utilize running training on the field: a practical and sport-specific approach to help someone move safely and strongly again.
What do we mean by running training on the field?
By field running training, we mean the targeted training and improvement of the gait pattern in a realistic sports environment. Instead of practicing only indoors or on a treadmill, we go outside. Here, we simulate situations relevant to the patient's sport, such as accelerating, decelerating, and changing direction.
The major advantage of this is that we look not only at whether someone can move, but especially at how someone moves under athletic load.
Why is this important after surgery?
After knee, ankle, or hip surgery, for example, an altered movement pattern often develops. Due to pain, loss of strength, or uncertainty, a person walks or runs differently. This can manifest as a misalignment, shorter strides, or less control during push-off and landing.
During daily activities, this is sometimes barely noticeable, but as soon as the intensity increases, such as on the sports field, these abnormalities become clearly visible. If these compensations persist, it can lead to new complaints or an increased risk of injury.
By training on the field, we can identify these deviations in a realistic setting and address them in a targeted manner.
What do we look at during this training?
During the running training on the field, we analyze various aspects of movement:
- Posture and control: Does the body remain stable during movement, or does someone collapse, for example, at the hip or knee?
- Pace rhythm and symmetry: Are the left and right sides equally loaded and is the tempo fluid?
- Landing and take-off: How does the foot land on the ground, and how powerful and controlled is the push-off?
- Stability of the hip, knee, and ankle: Is there sufficient control to absorb the tax?
- Coordination in sports movements: How does movement proceed during acceleration, deceleration, and turning?
Based on this analysis, we develop a personalized program combining exercises with movement on the field.
Targeted progression to sports level
An important part of this approach is the build-up. We often start with simple, straight movements at low intensity. We then expand this to more complex forms, such as rapid changes of direction and higher speeds.
Through this gradual build-up, the body becomes accustomed to the load required to be able to exercise again. This reduces the risk of relapse and ensures a more sustainable recovery.
More confidence in movement
In addition to physical recovery, confidence plays a major role. Many athletes are hesitant after an injury or surgery. By practicing on the field in a controlled setting, they notice that their bodies are capable of bearing weight again. This helps them move with more confidence and less fear.
Ready to see how Snowflake works?
Field running training is a valuable part of rehabilitation for athletes. By training in a realistic environment and focusing on technique, stability, and control, we help not only to regain movement but to do so in a safe and efficient manner. In this way, we ensure that individuals can return to their sport strong and with confidence.
