On the technical side...

I'm interested but I don't really understand how this works...

Once you're in contact GP he'll go over the details with you. Basically you will use your own video equipment to film a few of short clips of your running form. Next you'll pick one of several options for submitting your video to Coach GP. To get you started, please click on the following link:

Guidelines for video filming and submission
 

What if I can't figure it out?:

We are pretty certain that you will but if you can't there are two options. One involves putting you in direct contact with the webmaster for this site. Our 'webbie' is very experienced with the creation, saving and emailing of files. The second would simply take the form of a full refund if you are unable to send the file or GP is unable to view it.
 
 
 

 

For several years GP has used video analysis to help runners assess potential weaknesses in their running form. Thanks to today's updated video technology it is now as easy as submitting your own video clips for you to receive GP's detailed analysis of your running mechanics.

On the basis of these assessments runners can make adjustments that will help them improve their running efficiency, economy and speed. GP provides video analyses for runners and triathletes of all levels, the potential improvements are available to all, not just to the elite.

What form does this analysis take?

  1. Once GP has reviewed your videos, you will receive an in-depth written report as to any and all weaknesses in your biomechanical running form.
  2. A comprehensive and detailed set of recommendations as to exactly how you should proceed in order to improve your running form.
     

What kind of 'running mechanics are we talking about?

** Reducing your contact time with the ground by 100th of a second with each strike of the foot, can reduce your 10k time (depending upon pace, by up to one minute).

** Proper running mechanics can have a major effect on reduced energy expenditure. Example, if one reduces vertical oscillation by mere centimeters, we can reduce wasted energy over a 5k race to the equivalent of the energy it takes to climb a five storey building.

** Proper running mechanics by improving ones efficiency helps maintain a lower heart rate, this in turn reduces fatigue and the effects of fatigue such as blood acidity levels, build up of lactic acid, changes in mineral levels, core temperature increase and subsequent increase in blood dispersion to the skin surface to assist in cooling, leaving less blood plasma available to the working muscles.

** Proper running mechanics can reduce impact forces, placing less stress on the articulated joints moving from smaller to larger as the forces make their way up through the line of the body.

** One of the key components of proper running technique is the optimal use of the arms and their direct relationship to how they assist the body in moving across the ground with as much power efficiency and economy as possible. Carry them too high and lose power, placing undue stress on the shoulders and trapezius muscles. Carry them too low and increase inertia, losing both economy and optimal efficiency.


Rates
 

To inquire about Coach GP's video analysis service and fees please contact us. The charge for a full running analysis and report is $199.

 

 

 

 

Pace Calculator    

 

 

$199. 00 includes detailed written report, analysis and recommendations. If you follow GP's recommendations for a minimum of 4 weeks after which you resubmit your video, GP will reanalyze your running form via a free telephone consultation.

Note: If you are local to Brielle, NJ and surrounding areas, Coach GP will come and shoot your video for you, no extra charge!

 

Can you give me any concrete examples of how I might benefit from video analysis?

GP has had great success with making adjustments to runner's mechanics. Three examples are:

Jim Duffe
Jim's arms were held way too far out in front of his body. Imagine being in a pool of waste deep water and thrusting your arms forward - it would in effect thrust you backwards. This was the case with Jim. By changing his arm-carriage we improved his foot strike and his five mile race time subsequently improved by some three minutes.

S. Ludeking
Also held his arms too far out in front and additionally, was not securing enough drive off, as he was running with too 'seated' a posture. By changing his arm drive, we created more flight time, subsequently, producing a better foot strike position, ultimately achieving a significant reduction in both his 5k and his 5 mile race times.

Linda Piff
We worked on Linda's posture and arm drive. The net effect - much better ground mechanics with less time spent on the ground at the point of foot contact. Improved mechanics allowed her natural speed to flourish. Linda was transformed from an average marathoner to a world class sprinter in her age group, resulting in two National Masters Age group titles.

We would like to stress that these improvements apply to all runners. They not only help you improve your times, they can help you stave of many of the running injuries we all dread. Just send in your video and we'll get to work - with optimal efficiency of course!

 


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Running Buzz Website Editor: Tom Schaefer