Albuquerque’s Most Advanced Running Analysis – RunDNA Helix 3D @ Balanced PT+W

If you’ve ever wondered why your knees ache after a long run or why you can’t seem to hit that new PR despite all your training, your running mechanics might be the key. Balanced Physical Therapy + Wellness recently launched the RunDNA Helix 3D Running Analysis — a state-of-the-art motion capture program that measures every detail of your stride in real time.

To get an inside look at what makes this program so unique, we sat down with Kevin Williams, PT, DPT, and Clark Bearsmith, PT, DPT, who lead the program at our South Tramway Clinic. Together, they explain what the Helix 3D system does, who it’s for, and how it’s changing the game for runners across Albuquerque.

Inside look at what makes this program so unique, we sat down with Kevin Williams, PT, DPT, and Clark Bearsmith, PT, DPT, who lead the RunDNA program.

For those who have never heard of it, what is the RunDNA Helix 3D system?

Kevin Williams, PT, DPT: The RunDNA Helix 3D system is a 3-dimensional, motion capture, camera system to capture individual running technique. It is more comprehensive and sensitive to joint angle changes that cannot be seen by the human eye. Finally, it will take the analysis information and present it clearly for the runner to be able to understand and act on.

What inspired you to bring the RunDNA Helix 3D Running Analysis to Balanced Physical Therapy?

Clark Bearsmith, PT, DPT: Here at Balanced Physical Therapy + Wellness - South Tramway, we are a clinic full of active humans who love to run and we often are helping our patients with running injuries or return to running as part of their sport or recreation. The Helix 3D by RunDNA allows us to stop guessing and be more precise in our analysis and recommendations. The inspiration is truly rooted in our desire to help keep people moving in the activities they love with high confidence in our process and analysis.

How does this analysis help runners improve performance or prevent injury?

Kevin Williams, PT, DPT: The RunDNA Helix 3D Analysis highlights individual technique and compares that to a research derived running model. It highlights asymmetries in their lower extremities, which can be a potential area for injury or a gap in their performance. It reviews joint angles, joint stiffness, time in stance or swing phases, and much more. It gives actionable steps to help improve the athlete and reassesses them later on to show how much improvement has been made.

Who would benefit most from doing a RunDNA Helix 3D analysis?

Clark Bearsmith, PT, DPT: This is going to help anyone who runs recreationally, competitively, and vocationally to improve their performance and reduce potential risk for injury. The last thing anyone wants is to be sidelined and we can help to keep our runners moving.

What can someone expect during their first session?

Kevin Williams, PT, DPT:  They should expect to get a comprehensive capture from a licensed therapist and Run DNA certified coach. They will be outfitted with motion capture equipment and asked to run at a speed that is at or near their desired speed. The capture itself is relatively short which gives the runner and their Run DNA assessor time to discuss the results in detail. Programming will be discussed about movement performance and/or distance performance. If pain is involved, the athlete and coach can discuss further options about running and the possible value of receiving a physical therapy evaluation. 

What’s one thing you want every runner in Albuquerque to know about this program?

Clark Bearsmith, PT, DPT:  I have been a “runner” for a long time, plus I am a therapist who has spent ample time studying and dissecting this pattern. I was blown away at what I could extract from one session of analysis. It changed the way I approached my own running and helped me greatly appreciate the “why’s” behind so many aspects of my movement pattern. I want every runner to know that it is worth it and you will walk away from this experience being more informed and more inspired. 

The RunDNA Helix 3D Running Analysis isn’t just for elite athletes — it’s for anyone who wants to understand their body better, improve performance, and run pain-free for life.

To book your RunDNA Helix 3D Running Analysis call Balanced Physical Therapy & Wellness - SOUTH TRAMWAY (505-872-2276) today. Your best stride starts with science!