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Perform an intervention screening (OnTracx Lab)

Optimizing the Athlete’s Load Profile: explore how changes in running technique or gear affect their mechanical load.

Updated this week

Once athletes start running again, it’s often valuable to optimize their load profile, especially for those with a high load profile combined with a low tolerance profile see how to ensure gradual followup

We recommend running an intervention screening only after the athlete has completed several pain-free running sessions. The goal is to explore how small changes in running technique or speed affect their mechanical load.


1. Why optimize load?

Every athlete responds differently to running interventions such as: adjusting running speed, increasing cadence and modifying vertical oscillation (how much a runner’s upper body moves up and down with each step).

ℹ️ For example, scientific research shows:

  • Increasing cadence reduces load in ~50% of runners.

  • But in the other ~50%, it has no effect—or even increases load, which can be counterintuitive.

👉 This is why it’s essential to test interventions, rather than assuming they’ll work.


2. How to perform an intervention screening in OnTracx Lab

  1. Open OnTracx PRO platform and click on OnTracx Lab.

  2. Select Start test in the Load Intervention section.

  3. Enter athlete details (personal information).

  4. Lace up the athlete with the OnTracx sensor and connect the sensor with the OnTracx app to view real-time load data:

    • Option 1: Save to the athlete’s profile

      • Log in to the app using the athlete’s account.

      • The load data during the session will be saved as a regular run and automatically linked to that athlete in your Pro Dashboard.

    • Option 2: Save to a dedicated testing account

      • Log in using a testing account created for your practice.

      • All load data from screenings will be saved under this account and can also be linked to your Pro Dashboard.

    • If you don’t want to save the data:

      • Choose the option to use the app without an account.

  5. Baseline test:

    • Have the athlete run at their normal, comfortable speed and cadence.

    • Ensure at least 1 minute of steady running.

    • Record:

      • Running speed

      • Cadence

      • Load

  6. Apply intervention(s):

    • Change one parameter at a time (e.g., +5% cadence).

    • Let the athlete run at least 1 minute per intervention.

    • Record speed, cadence, and load.

  7. Repeat as needed for multiple interventions.

⚠️ Always make changes gradually and ensure the athlete feels comfortable at all times.


A note on treadmill vs. field testing

Treadmill conditions can differ from outdoor running. Whenever possible, repeat intervention screenings in the field to ensure results are realistic and transferable to real-world training.


✅ With intervention screening, you can fine-tune running technique and training intensity, making return-to-run safer, more efficient, and more personalized.

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