Runtech - Refine Your Run Part 1

It has been 2 years since I was involved with my team mate from 2ndSkin conducting running clinics. We collaborated with Garmin Malaysia in conducting these basic sharing/classes targeted at beginners. It is also an opportunity for Garmin Malaysia to showcase their newest products to the participants, where they will have a chance to use these during the clinics and decide what potentially suits them if they want to invest in a running GPS watch with smart function. 

Photo from Batch 8.2. Thanks Deo!

Last weekend, we managed to get Bodytech Kuala Lumpur to join us at the running clinic. Through an arrangement with Garmin and 2ndSkin, the principal of Bodytech KL was with us to share what they can do (as in services) to the participants. Specifically, for runners, they have the Runtech which focuses on runners. 

About Runtech™ by Bodytech Kuala Lumpur
Runtech™ has been developed to help runners identify and to improve their running form. By using video analyses and their knowledge on running dynamic. They can help beginner, recreational  , seasoned and competitive runners to understand their gaps and provide suggestion for improvement.

Selina and May Ooi providing the information on Runtech™

Last Saturday, myself and my team mate Azrul Deo received the opportunity to have our running analyzed by the team from Runtech™. We also observed two other participant that had their running video recorded as well, in the event they decided to engage Runtech™ to provide them the analysis. There was no obligation and the participants were offered a discount if they are interested. 

The video requirement can either be done at Bodytech or send in remotely to them by you

There are two variables in my opinion that may be material and effect the outcome of the analysis. First is the video recording, and the second is your perceived running form. As the services from Runtech allows you to film your own running video if you live too far away to meet up face-to-face, they prepared a guidance on how to take the video in this Youtube video

The requirement from Runtech™ during the Saturday session is for us to run to and fro at least 8-times on a straight line. A camera takes a side profile while you run and the front camera need you to run in a straight line. So, if you take your own video, I suggest you pick and choose a place without traffic (if you want to use the road line), or in a field where you can find markings. Perhaps even in a open air court may be good. As much as possible, no video indoor. You will also have to tuck in your shirt so they have a good look at how your hip moves (and as Shakira says, it doesn't lie).

You are out of line Stupe! 

Now, on your perceived running form; when you are fresh, your form will always be good - great posture, good arm swing with good leg lift and kick back, conscious landing and take off etc. But when you are tired and "want to get it done and over with", that is when you form will suffer, and you open up yourself to many possibilities of potential injuries. I am very conscious of that and in every clinic we conduct, the team (2ndSkin) will often emphasize on good posture and "be in the know" of your body position. So, what did me and Deo did?
We ran a few fast laps around the flat surface of the track and immediately went in to get our run recorded. In my case, I decided to test my 1-Mile timing. Personal best of 5:58 almost 2 years ago were at stake - actually, not much at stake as I know my personal fitness since. With a 7:00 to cover 1.65km (can I now claim it was slightly over a mile?), I know I have lost my fitness. 

Which now, present a great opportunity for me to know what I can improve on with the help of Bodytech and their Runtech™ program!

As I ran at least 8 laps, I was more conscious of my body placement and posture, my strides and even my landing, but as I was tired (I ran a HIIT of 7km earlier before the 1-Miler), i know my form is not as good. Perfect opportunity for these movements to be recorded (and it did).

Video done, what's next?

There was a sense of accomplishment as I lap around the two cameras knowing hope to beat the 5:58 timing may be in the near future. So, after filming and filling out the form for Runtech™, all I need to do now is wait for the report and how I can further improve my run. For those of you that know me, it took me a good 18months to unlearn and relearn running about 3 to 4 years ago. At this point of writing, I thought to myself how nice it would had been if Runtech™ were available 4 years back that I then can save myself from the process and focus on improvement immediately after the analyses! 

Thank you Selina and May Ooi

In the next part of the blog entry, I will share with you what are the findings for my improvement, tailored to my personal running style. I will also share more of the packages available under the Runtech™. However, if you require more information now, head over to their Facebook page here. Their main page which is known as Bodytech is right here on this link. Until then, keep running and never stop learning!