Loyola University Health System is launching an innovative new Running Clinic that will help runners avoid injury, improve their stride and boost race times.
During the one-hour, one-on-one clinic, the runner will receive:
-- Digital video analyses. The runner will be videotaped on a treadmill, from the front, back and side. A specialized software program will provide a frame-by-frame analysis of each. It will show, for example, whether a runner's feet are striking the ground correctly or whether the pelvis is rocking too much. The runner will be given a DVD copy.
-- Biomechanical assessment of strength, flexibility and mobility (range of motion).
-- Nutritional counseling, including recommendations on how many calories to consume and how to avoid drinking too much or too little water during long runs.
-- Recommendations on the best running shoes (and orthotic shoe inserts, if necessary), based on the runner's foot type and stride.
"Our clinic is designed to help runners of all ages, from casual joggers to high-mileage marathon runners," said Debra Popovich, manager of outpatient rehab services.
The clinic is conducted by advanced practice physical therapist John Ragonese, an orthopaedic clinical specialist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. Ragonese also is a runner who competes in Olympic-distance triathlons.
The running clinic will be offered monthly from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.:
July 16 -- Loyola Center for Health at Burr Ridge, 6800 N. Frontage Rd., Burr Ridge.
Aug. 6 -- Loyola Center for Rehabilitation on Roosevelt, 1219 W. Roosevelt Rd., Maywood.
Sept. 10 -- Loyola Center for Health at Burr Ridge.
The cost is $150.
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