For this protocol the tester will use the Monitoring session. These protocols allow you to collect information at different speeds over short distances, as well as monitoring how a runner’s variables change over a longer run.

Before running a monitoring session
1. Make sure the RFD is disconnected from the PC and placed in the arm band or waist pocket before running.
2. Perform 3 knee flexions (quadriceps stretch) on each leg before running at different speeds or intervals. This allows an indication that the running test is about to begin and for the tester to ascertain at what point the subject began running at the predetermined speed.
3. Subject heads out on track or field to perform running as per coaching/medical instructions.

After running
1. Remove RFD from arm band or waist pocket, plug RFD into PC.
2. Off-load data as instructed.
3. Review Report or analyse the data (session analysis).

Part 1: Short runs
The runner will complete 6 x 100 yard / meter runs:
·        2 X 100 yard / meter reps at jogging speed, approximately 60% of full speed
·        2 X 100 yard / meter reps at tempo/striding pace, approximately 80% of full speed
·        2 X 100 yard / meter reps at sprint speed, approximately full speed
 
At the beginning and end of each 100 yard / meter repetition ask the runner to stand still for a minimum of 5 seconds, before starting the sprint and walking back to complete the next rep. The reports can be generated once the data has been downloaded from the RFD (Recording Feedback Device).
 
Part 2: Steady / Distance run
Ask the runner to perform one run at their normal training speed for a set distance. Ideally the distance needs to be long enough so the runner will start to fatigue by the end of the run.
 
The information will be downloaded from the RFD to the software at the end of the run. The health professional can then analyze the entire run or break the run down into sections to look at variation in the runner’s gait as they progress through their session.
 
The protocol described above allows evaluation of the impact of different running speeds on a subject’s running mechanics. This could allow health professionals to find an optimum training speed for each runner. Capturing information over a longer run enables assessment of the impact of fatigue. A baseline picture of how your runner would normally perform and respond to training sessions can be established. Robust normative data for each runner can be collected by performing multiple tests of this type. This allows health professionals to assess changes over time and clearly establish the nature and volume of training required to return to function post-injury. The information can also assess the efficacy of any advice or exercises given to the runner to improve running efficiency.

Part 3: Acceleration / Deceleration run
The Acceleration Deceleration Test was specifically developed as a screening tool in conjunction with an English Premier League football (soccer) team. The average continuous distance run in a soccer match is <15 meters. It is therefore important to understand how an athlete runs over short distances where acceleration from standing and deceleration to a stop form a significant component of the running activity.
 
Subjects should run 6 reps x 20 yards. The runner will run from a standing start to the 20 yard line and come to a sudden stop. The runner should stay in this position for 10 seconds before walking slowly back to the start line to repeat the next rep. It is very important that the subject does not run or jog in between reps as this will distort the data.
 
One analysis window should be used to collect all 6 reps.
 
This test is being used to assess a runners’ readiness to train and compete following a wide variety of lower limb and pelvic injuries. Asymmetry (ASI) values of +/- 5% are considered as the ideal; however each individual’s previous injury history and baseline data needs to be taken into account when considering the result of each test. The test can be a maximal test or can be performed at any speed that is felt to be clinically relevant or appropriate for that athlete at the time of testing.