Alexandra Sports, the Hampshire-based running, fitness and walking specialist talk to us about what they do best
When you visit one of our stores we will establish your needs to enable us to carry out the best type of biomechanical assessment that would be specifically suited to you. If you are a runner or walker or just have feet issues we are here to help you. We offer two types of assessment: the first is suitable for runners and walkers, the second is a new revolutionary wireless sensor technology for the more intermediate/advanced runners.
What is a biomechanical assessment?
A biomechanical assessment is the assessment of the mechanics of a biological system; normally with the view of improving or enhancing such mechanics as to produce favourable results. In the context of our industry the biological system is the human body and we are generally assessing the lower limb (below the hip) biomechanics; whilst noting any significant interactions with the rest of the body.
The favourable results we are seeking is helping you to select the ideal footwear for your biomechanics to help avoid injury and promote a better running or walking style so that you get the most enjoyment out of your running/walking as possible. When you get it just right, you will often run/walk without even thinking about your body, your mechanics will flow and you will relax and enjoy the run/walk. However, get it wrong and even a short run/walk can result in injuries or pain.
Do I really need a biomechanical assessment?
The biomechanical assessment has been developed to ensure that we can help you can choose the ideal shoe for your feet, helping to reduce the possibility of injury. Whilst it may sound long-winded, we understand that some of our customers like to comprehend in full detail how their body interacts with footwear while they run/walk; while others prefer to just be guided by us.
Either way you are the customer and we are here to ensure that you leave happy in the knowledge that you have the right shoes for you. We also recognize that choosing products is more than just a case of selecting what is practically correct; it can be an emotional decision. So if you prefer to simply choose your own shoes or even pick what you prefer the look of we will still be happy to help.
Our assessments
All our assessments are free when purchasing footwear.
Our Standard service is suitable for runners & walkers & is performed by experienced personable staff. The process will take about 30 mins and will include a fitting service. We also hold a record of your assessment in store for future reference, no appointment is necessary. If you would prefer to just have the assessment there is a £20 charge that is refundable against shoes if you do decide to buy in the future.
Our Premium service is more suitable to runners of an intermediate/advanced level. Again the assessment is performed by experienced personable staff. This process will take around 45 minutes & it is by appointment only. You will need to wear your running kit & complete some paper work including a disclaimer form. The assessment will produce hard scientific data which will take into consideration nine different variables including ground reaction forces, initial peak acceleration, asymmetry, cadence & ground contact time. You will be provided with compression socks (which you get to keep) these will insure the wireless sensors that are connected to your shins stay in place whilst running. You will be given a traffic light print out with all your data that can be print, emailed or send via SMS. We also keep a detailed record on our system for future reference. If you are just wishing to have the assessment there will be a £35.00 charge which can be refundable against shoes if you do decide to buy in the future.
Both stores also offer a large range of off the shelf and heat molded custom insoles along with a podiatry service for the more complicated feet.
