1. New HAWC Machine aids Airmen Stride
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. – The Health and Wellness Center received a
gait analysis machine 23 January 2013 to help analyze abnormalities in a person’s
stride. The purpose of the analysis machine is to help make individuals more
efficient runners.
Many runners have issues with shin splints and abnormal running form that affects
their run time, and recovering from injuries.
The set up of the machine consists of three cameras set at different angles to allow
a 360 degree view of the person being analyzed.
“There are three angles we shoot from: side, rear and the front,” said Kevin
Davalos, HAWC exercise physiologist. “The side view gives us an overall look of
how the person’s posture is. The front view is to see how their feet land and where
their knees are. Lastly, the rear view is to see hip and lower leg position.”
When people come to get their run or walk analyzed, the HAWC members will
also give tips and suggestions on how to improve their running posture, run time
and prevent the most common injuries.
The gait analysis machine is for anyone who wants to improve their overall
fitness. HAWC members suggest anyone who gets analyzed to return in about
eight weeks to see their progress.
“I want people to take advantage of this,” said Davalos. “Unlike off base, there is
no charge and it helps your run and form, which will in turn improve people’s run
times on physical training tests and prevent injuries.”
For more information or to be evaluated, call Kevin Davalos at the HAWC, 895-
1216. Appointments will start Feb. 4 and take place every Monday. The
appointments will take no longer than 30 minutes. Operation times for the gait
analysis machine will be from 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.