The Modern Running Assessment with Kinetic PT

This episode of the Root Cause Medicine Podcast explores the Modern Running Assessment, an evidence-informed, data-driven framework for evaluating runners’ biomechanics, load tolerance, and performance capacity. Host Dr. Kate Kresge interviews Dr. Chris Sands, DPT, OCS, and Dr. Gabe Kresge, DPT, from Kinetic Physical Therapy to examine how modern tools—dynamometry, force plate testing, slow-motion gait analysis, cadence and vertical oscillation metrics, and single-leg endurance testing—provide objective information that visual observation alone may miss. These measurable insights help clinicians better understand strength-to-body-weight ratios, inter-limb asymmetries, foot-strike loading patterns, and fatigue-related movement changes, offering a clearer picture of the factors that may influence running efficiency, durability, and injury risk.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome back and introduction to the Modern Running Assessment
03:52 – Setting goals first: performance vs. pain and how that shapes the assessment
05:47 – Dynamometry explained: measuring force, 2–4x bodyweight load, and asymmetry
11:53 – Strength vs. endurance: calf fatigue, single-leg control, and why bilateral lifts don’t always translate
18:13 – Force plate testing, vertical oscillation, and how cadence tweaks can reduce impact
26:58 – Born to Run, barefoot trends, foot strike, and what really changes with minimalist running
30:38 – Shoes, pronation, anti-pronation models, and when added support actually makes sense
34:24 – Trunk and thoracic mobility: how chest position affects breathing, heart rate, and endurance
37:46 – Foundational strength for runners: split squats, single-leg RDLs, lateral work, and deficit calf raises
41:09 – Will strength training make you “too bulky”? What the research says about muscle, speed, and long-term joint health, plus shoe rotation and clinician action steps toward objective running assessments

Dr. Chris Sands, DPT, OCS: Dr. Chris Sands is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist with advanced training in running biomechanics and force-based assessment. At Kinetic Physical Therapy, he co-leads the Modern Running Assessment program, using tools like handheld dynamometry, force plates, and high-speed gait analysis to quantify strength, asymmetry, and load tolerance. His work focuses on helping runners and clinicians connect objective metrics with tailored training plans that support performance, resilience, and long-term joint health.

Dr. Gabe Kresge, DPT: Dr. Gabe Kresge is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and USA Powerlifting coach who specializes in strength and movement optimization for runners and lifters. At Kinetic, he partners with Dr. Sands to deliver data-driven running assessments that merge objective strength profiling, unilateral endurance testing, and individualized programming. His clinical lens emphasizes building durable, strong runners through intelligently progressed strength training, volume programming, and practical education that athletes can apply for life.

Learn more: Kinetic Physical Therapy — Website: https://kineticptpa.com/