Gait Analysis Mat: Technical Specifications, Production Process, and Applications

Types of Gait Analysis Mats

A gait analysis mat is a sophisticated diagnostic tool used to assess walking patterns, weight distribution, and biomechanical performance. These mats are widely utilized in clinical settings, sports science, rehabilitation, and footwear development. By capturing real-time data during movement, they help professionals identify abnormalities, optimize performance, and develop targeted treatment plans.

There are several types of gait analysis mats, each designed with specific sensor technologies and measurement capabilities to suit different applications—from medical diagnostics to athletic training. Understanding the distinctions between these types ensures the right selection based on intended use, accuracy requirements, and environment.

Pressure Mats

Pressure mats are equipped with an array of embedded pressure sensors that map the distribution of force across the entire foot during standing or walking. These mats generate detailed pressure maps, showing high- and low-load areas with precision.

Advantages

• High-resolution spatial mapping of foot pressure
• Excellent for detecting plantar pressure abnormalities
• Ideal for posture and balance assessments
• Widely used in podiatry and diabetic foot care

Limitations

• Measures pressure, not full vector forces
• Limited insight into dynamic movement mechanics
• Less effective for running or high-speed gait analysis

Best for: Clinical diagnostics, orthotic design, postural analysis, and rehabilitation monitoring

Force Mats

Force mats (also known as force plates integrated into mat form) measure ground reaction forces (GRF) in three dimensions—vertical, anterior-posterior, and medial-lateral. They provide comprehensive biomechanical data essential for understanding gait dynamics, balance, and movement efficiency.

Advantages

• Measures full vector forces during movement
• Enables detailed kinetic and temporal-spatial analysis
• Essential for sports performance and injury prevention
• Used in research labs and elite athletic training

Limitations

• Higher cost compared to pressure mats
• Requires calibration and technical expertise
• Often needs integration with motion capture systems

Best for: Biomechanics research, sports science, gait labs, and injury rehabilitation programs

Inverted Force Mats

Inverted force mats are uniquely engineered with sensors mounted beneath the walking surface, allowing them to measure vertical ground reaction forces from below. This design minimizes surface interference and enhances durability, making them ideal for long-term or high-traffic use.

Advantages

• Accurate vertical force measurement with minimal signal distortion
• Durable construction suitable for repeated use
• Less susceptible to wear and environmental damage
• Provides clean data for detailed gait cycle analysis

Limitations

• Limited ability to capture lateral or shear forces
• Typically more complex to install
• Primarily focused on vertical force dynamics

Best for: Longitudinal studies, clinical gait labs, and environments requiring robust, low-maintenance systems

Type	Primary Measurement	Accuracy Level	Common Applications	Environment Suitability
Pressure Mats	Foot Pressure Distribution	High (spatial)	Podiatry, Orthotics, Rehabilitation	Clinical, Inpatient, Lab
Force Mats	3D Ground Reaction Forces	Very High (kinetic)	Sports Science, Research, Injury Analysis	Research Labs, Training Facilities
Inverted Force Mats	Vertical Ground Reaction Force	High (vertical axis)	Gait Dynamics, Longitudinal Studies	Specialized Clinics, Gait Labs

Expert Tip: For comprehensive gait assessment, consider combining pressure mats with motion capture systems or using hybrid force/pressure platforms. This multimodal approach provides both spatial pressure data and full kinetic analysis, offering the most complete picture of gait biomechanics.

Industrial Applications of Gait Analysis Mats

Advanced gait analysis equipment, particularly pressure-sensitive gait analysis mats, has evolved from clinical tools into versatile diagnostic and optimization systems used across multiple industries. These high-resolution mats capture detailed biomechanical data—including step length, pressure distribution, weight transfer, and foot placement—providing actionable insights that enhance human performance, safety, and technology development. Below is a comprehensive overview of how various sectors leverage this innovative technology.

Biomedical Industry

In the biomedical and healthcare sector, gait analysis mats are essential for diagnosing, monitoring, and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Clinicians use these mats to assess patients with disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, stroke, arthritis, and spinal cord injuries.

The precise data collected—such as asymmetries in stride, abnormal pressure points, or altered weight-bearing patterns—enables early detection of gait deviations and supports personalized rehabilitation programs. Physical therapists can track progress over time, adjust treatment plans, and improve patient outcomes. Additionally, these systems are instrumental in prosthetic and orthotic fitting, ensuring devices align with natural movement patterns for maximum comfort and functionality.

Sports and Fitness Industry

The sports and fitness industry utilizes gait analysis mats to optimize athletic performance and minimize injury risk. Coaches, trainers, and sports scientists analyze an athlete’s running mechanics, balance, and foot strike patterns to identify inefficiencies or biomechanical imbalances.

This information allows for tailored training modifications, corrective exercises, and footwear recommendations. For example, overpronation or supination detected during gait analysis can inform the selection of appropriate orthotics or performance shoes. Elite sports teams and training centers integrate this technology into athlete development programs to enhance speed, endurance, and agility while reducing strain on joints and muscles.

Robotics and Humanoid Development

In the field of robotics, gait analysis mats play a pivotal role in advancing humanoid robot locomotion. By capturing authentic human walking dynamics—including center of pressure shifts, step timing, and ground reaction forces—engineers can program robots to replicate natural human movement.

This data is crucial for developing bipedal robots capable of navigating complex environments, maintaining balance, and interacting safely with humans. Applications range from service robots in healthcare to autonomous rescue robots in disaster zones. The integration of real-world gait data ensures smoother, more energy-efficient, and lifelike robotic motion, accelerating innovation in artificial intelligence and machine learning for mobility.

Military and Defense Sector

The military and defense community employs gait analysis mats for both rehabilitation and operational readiness. Injured service members undergo gait assessment during physical therapy to monitor recovery from combat-related injuries, amputations, or musculoskeletal trauma.

These assessments help design targeted rehabilitation protocols and ensure safe return-to-duty clearance. Beyond medical use, gait analysis is also applied to evaluate the biomechanical impact of carrying heavy gear, prolonged marches, or operating in extreme environments. This insight informs the development of ergonomic equipment, exoskeletons, and training regimens that reduce fatigue and prevent long-term injuries among personnel.

Occupational Health and Safety

In industrial and manufacturing settings, gait analysis mats contribute significantly to workplace ergonomics and injury prevention. Workers in warehouses, construction sites, and production facilities often perform repetitive tasks or walk on uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of slips, trips, and overuse injuries.

By analyzing employee gait patterns, safety officers can identify hazardous movement behaviors, assess fatigue levels, and evaluate the effectiveness of anti-fatigue flooring or protective footwear. This data supports proactive risk assessments and informs the redesign of workspaces to promote safer movement patterns, ultimately reducing workplace accidents and improving long-term employee well-being.

Research and Academia

Universities and research institutions use gait analysis mats to conduct biomechanical studies, validate new medical devices, and explore human movement science. These systems provide high-fidelity data for peer-reviewed research in kinesiology, rehabilitation engineering, and aging studies.

Longitudinal studies on elderly populations, for instance, use gait analysis to detect early signs of mobility decline, aiding in fall prevention strategies. Similarly, researchers studying the effects of footwear, insoles, or wearable tech rely on these mats for objective, quantifiable results under controlled conditions.

Industry	Primary Use	Key Benefits
Biomedical & Healthcare	Diagnosis, rehabilitation, prosthetics	Early detection of disorders, personalized therapy, improved patient outcomes
Sports & Fitness	Performance optimization, injury prevention	Enhanced training, reduced injury rates, better footwear design
Robotics	Humanoid locomotion modeling	Natural robot movement, improved balance and navigation
Military & Defense	Rehabilitation, load impact analysis	Faster recovery, reduced fatigue, safer gear design
Occupational Safety	Ergonomic assessment, risk mitigation	Lower injury rates, improved workplace design, employee wellness

Emerging Trends and Future Potential

Integration with AI: Machine learning algorithms are being trained on gait data to predict injury risks, classify movement disorders, and automate analysis—reducing reliance on manual interpretation.

Wearable Synergy: Gait mats are increasingly used alongside wearable sensors to provide comprehensive full-body movement assessments.

Telehealth Applications: Portable gait mats enable remote monitoring of patients, expanding access to specialized care in rural or underserved areas.

Smart Flooring: Next-generation smart floors embedded with pressure sensors could provide continuous gait monitoring in homes, hospitals, or fitness centers.

Important: While gait analysis mats offer powerful insights, accurate interpretation requires trained professionals. Misdiagnosis or improper application of data can lead to ineffective interventions. Always ensure that gait assessments are conducted under appropriate supervision and validated through clinical or scientific protocols.

Product Specifications and Features of Gait Analysis Mats

Gait analysis mats are advanced diagnostic tools used in clinical, sports, and rehabilitation settings to assess human movement patterns. By capturing detailed biomechanical data during walking or running, these mats help healthcare professionals, physical therapists, and trainers identify gait abnormalities, monitor recovery progress, and optimize performance. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of their technical specifications, installation and usage procedures, and maintenance best practices.

Sensor Technology

Modern gait analysis mats utilize a sophisticated array of sensors to capture precise biomechanical data with every step. These include:

• Pressure Sensors: Measure the distribution of force across the foot during stance phase, identifying high-pressure zones that may indicate injury risks or improper footwear.
• Force Sensors: Capture vertical ground reaction forces to evaluate weight-bearing symmetry and propulsion efficiency.
• Piezoelectric Sensors: Detect dynamic changes in pressure and timing, enabling accurate measurement of step initiation, contact duration, and swing phase.

Key Benefit: High-density sensor arrays (often exceeding 10,000 sensors per square meter) provide spatial resolution for detailed plantar pressure mapping.

Data Accuracy and Performance Metrics

Accuracy is paramount in gait analysis, and top-tier mats deliver sub-millisecond temporal resolution and ±2% force accuracy. Key measurable parameters include:

• Step length and stride length
• Stride frequency and walking velocity
• Weight distribution (left vs. right limb)
• Center of pressure (COP) trajectory
• Bilateral symmetry index

Clinical Relevance: Enables early detection of conditions like Parkinson’s, stroke aftereffects, or musculoskeletal imbalances.

Connectivity and Data Transfer

Seamless integration with digital platforms enhances usability and real-time analysis capabilities:

• Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth 5.0 or Wi-Fi 6 allows for real-time streaming to tablets, laptops, or cloud-based software platforms.
• Compatible with specialized gait analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Visual3D, or proprietary clinical suites) for advanced visualization and reporting.
• Some models support offline data storage with automatic sync upon reconnection.

Pro Tip: Look for HIPAA-compliant data encryption if used in medical environments to ensure patient privacy.

Power Supply and Operational Flexibility

Designed for both clinical and field use, gait mats offer flexible power options:

• Rechargeable Lithium-ion Batteries: Provide 6–12 hours of continuous operation on a single charge, ideal for mobile clinics or home visits.
• AC Power Adapters: Enable uninterrupted use during long-term monitoring or research studies.
• Low-power modes extend battery life during idle periods.

Note: Battery-powered models often feature LED indicators for charge status and low-battery alerts.

Durability and Environmental Resistance

Engineered for repeated use in diverse environments, gait mats are built to last:

• Constructed from industrial-grade thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or reinforced rubber for abrasion resistance.
• Water-resistant or IP67-rated surfaces protect against spills, sweat, and cleaning agents.
• Anti-slip backing ensures stability on tile, wood, or linoleum flooring.
• UV-resistant materials prevent degradation under prolonged light exposure.

Ideal For: High-traffic clinics, sports facilities, and rehabilitation centers.

Installation and Setup Guide

Gait mats are designed for quick deployment with minimal technical expertise:

1. Surface Preparation: Place the mat on a clean, flat, and level surface free of debris.
2. Power On: Charge or connect to power; ensure indicator lights confirm readiness.
3. Device Pairing: Enable Bluetooth/Wi-Fi on your receiving device and follow the app’s pairing instructions.
4. Calibration: Perform zero-point calibration with no one on the mat, and some systems require weight calibration using known masses.
5. Testing Zone: Allow at least 3 meters of clear walking space before and after the mat for natural gait cycles.

Best Practice: Use calibration weights monthly or after transportation to maintain accuracy.

Expert Recommendation: For optimal results, conduct multiple walking trials and average the data to account for natural variability. Always standardize footwear (e.g., barefoot, socks, or prescribed shoes) across sessions to ensure consistency in longitudinal assessments.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Proper care extends the lifespan and accuracy of your gait analysis mat:

• Wipe the surface daily with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap solution.
• Avoid alcohol-based cleaners, acetone, or abrasive scrubbers that can degrade sensor coatings.
• Allow the mat to air dry completely before rolling or storing.
• Clean edges and connectors periodically to prevent dust buildup.

Warning: Never immerse the mat in water or use high-pressure sprayers.

Storage and Long-Term Care

Preserve structural integrity and sensor performance with proper storage:

• Store flat or loosely rolled (never tightly coiled) to prevent creasing or microfractures in sensor traces.
• Keep in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Use a protective carrying case during transport to shield against impacts and moisture.
• Inspect cables and connectors regularly for fraying or corrosion.

Maintenance Schedule: Perform visual inspections weekly and full system diagnostics quarterly.

Feature	Description	Recommended Use Case
Sensor Density	5,000–15,000 sensors/m²	Clinical diagnostics, research
Sampling Rate	100–500 Hz	Dynamic gait analysis, sports performance
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, USB-C	Mobile clinics, telehealth applications
Battery Life	8 hours (typical)	Field assessments, home health
Weight Capacity	Up to 150 kg (330 lbs)	General population screening

Additional Considerations

• Software Integration: Choose mats compatible with EMR (Electronic Medical Records) systems for seamless documentation and billing.
• User Training: Provide staff with basic training on data interpretation and troubleshooting common issues (e.g., signal dropouts).
• Warranty and Support: Opt for products with at least a 2-year warranty and access to technical support for calibration and repairs.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure FDA clearance or CE marking for clinical use, especially in diagnostic settings.
• Scalability: Modular mats can be connected end-to-end for longer walkways or custom configurations.

Quality and Safety Considerations of Gait Analysis Mats

Gait analysis mats are essential tools in biomechanics, rehabilitation, sports science, and clinical diagnostics. These advanced systems provide detailed insights into walking patterns, pressure distribution, balance, and movement efficiency. Ensuring both high quality and safety in gait analysis mats is critical for accurate data collection, user protection, and long-term reliability. This guide explores the key quality and safety factors that manufacturers, healthcare providers, researchers, and fitness professionals should consider when selecting or using gait analysis mats.

Safety Note: Always ensure the gait analysis mat is placed on a flat, stable surface and is free from moisture or debris before use. Regular inspection for wear, electrical integrity (if applicable), and sensor functionality is essential to maintain both safety and measurement accuracy.

Quality Considerations for Gait Analysis Mats

High-quality gait analysis mats are engineered to deliver consistent, reliable, and precise biomechanical data. The following factors contribute significantly to the overall performance and longevity of these systems:

• Material Durability: Premium gait analysis mats are constructed from robust materials such as medical-grade thermoplastics, reinforced rubber, or composite polymers. These materials resist tearing, abrasion, and deformation under repeated use, ensuring the mat maintains structural integrity over time—even in high-traffic clinical or research environments.
• Sensor Precision and Density: Advanced mats feature high-resolution pressure sensors (often ranging from hundreds to thousands of sensing points per square inch) that capture granular data on foot pressure, center of pressure (COP), weight distribution, gait speed, stride length, and temporal-spatial parameters. High sensor accuracy ensures clinically valid results for diagnosis, rehabilitation tracking, and performance optimization.
• Surface Uniformity and Tactile Consistency: The walking surface must be smooth, consistent, and free from irregularities that could alter natural gait patterns. A uniform texture ensures reliable foot contact across the entire mat, while also being gentle on bare feet or sensitive skin—important in pediatric or geriatric applications.
• Slip-Resistant Surface: Even beyond safety, a non-slip surface contributes to data quality by preventing involuntary adjustments in gait due to instability. High-traction surfaces allow users to walk naturally without fear of slipping, which is crucial for obtaining authentic biomechanical readings.
• Load Capacity and Structural Resilience: Quality mats are designed to support a wide range of user weights—typically from pediatric patients to bariatric individuals (often rated up to 300–400 lbs or more). The internal structure must resist compression fatigue and maintain sensor alignment even under heavy or prolonged use.
• Water and Sweat Resistance: Given that gait assessments often involve physical exertion, mats must be resistant to moisture from sweat, spills, or cleaning agents. Water-resistant construction prevents internal damage, microbial growth, and electrical hazards in sensor-equipped models.
• Factory Calibration and Re-Calibration Support: Top-tier mats come pre-calibrated to ensure immediate accuracy upon deployment. Additionally, they often include software tools or service protocols for periodic recalibration, maintaining measurement consistency over time and across different environments.
• Connectivity and Software Integration: High-quality systems offer seamless integration with analysis software, supporting real-time visualization, data export (e.g., CSV, PDF), and compatibility with EMG, motion capture, or electronic health record (EHR) systems for comprehensive patient assessment.

Safety Considerations for Gait Analysis Mats

Safety is paramount when users—especially elderly, injured, or mobility-impaired individuals—are walking on gait analysis systems. The following safety features ensure user protection and regulatory compliance:

• Slip-Resistant Surface Design: Mats are engineered with textured, anti-slip surfaces that meet or exceed industry standards for coefficient of friction. This minimizes the risk of slips, trips, and falls, particularly during dynamic walking or turning tasks.
• Electrical Safety Standards: For electronic mats with embedded sensors and wiring, proper insulation, grounding, and low-voltage design are critical. These systems must comply with international electrical safety regulations (e.g., IEC 60601-1 for medical devices) to prevent electric shock, especially in moist environments like rehabilitation clinics.
• Sensor and Emission Compliance: Integrated electronics must adhere to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards such as ISO/IEC, CE, and FCC regulations. This ensures the device does not interfere with other medical equipment and is safe for use in sensitive environments like hospitals.
• Moisture and Spill Protection: Sealed sensor arrays and waterproof connectors prevent internal water ingress. This not only protects users from electrical hazards but also extends the lifespan of the device by preventing corrosion and short circuits.
• Load Limit Indicators and Warnings: Many advanced mats include software alerts or physical labels indicating maximum weight capacity. Exceeding this limit can damage sensors or compromise structural integrity, posing both safety and accuracy risks. Clear warnings help prevent misuse.
• Ergonomic and Environmental Safety: Mats should have rounded edges, no exposed wires, and be free from sharp components. They should also be made from non-toxic, latex-free, and hypoallergenic materials to prevent skin irritation or allergic reactions.
• Stable Placement and Anti-Slip Base: The underside of the mat often features a non-slip backing or attachment points to secure it to the floor. This prevents shifting during use, which could otherwise lead to tripping hazards or inaccurate data.

Feature Category	Key Quality Indicators	Safety Implications	Recommended Standards
Material & Build	Durable thermoplastics, reinforced rubber, abrasion resistance	Prevents tearing, tripping, or exposure to internal components	ISO 10993 (biocompatibility), ASTM D4060 (abrasion)
Sensor System	High resolution (≥1 sensor/cm²), factory calibrated	Accurate diagnostics reduce misdiagnosis risk	IEC 60601-2-70 (medical gait systems)
Surface Safety	Uniform texture, anti-slip top and bottom layers	Reduces fall risk during assessment	ANSI/BHMA A156.16 (slip resistance)
Electrical Components	Low voltage, sealed wiring, moisture protection	Prevents electric shock or short circuits	IEC 60601-1, CE, FCC
User Capacity	Clear weight rating (e.g., up to 350 lbs)	Avoids structural failure or sensor damage	Manufacturer specifications, ISO 22196

Expert Tip: Regular maintenance—including surface cleaning with mild disinfectants, checking for physical damage, and verifying software calibration—can significantly extend the life and accuracy of your gait analysis mat. Always follow the manufacturer’s care guidelines to preserve both quality and safety performance.

Best Practices for Optimal Use

• Conduct a visual and functional inspection before each use, especially in shared clinical settings.
• Train staff on proper setup, usage protocols, and emergency procedures for electronic mats.
• Use mats on clean, dry, level flooring to ensure accurate readings and prevent slipping.
• Store the mat flat or rolled (as per manufacturer instructions) to avoid creasing or sensor damage.
• Update firmware and software regularly to benefit from performance improvements and security patches.
• Document calibration dates and maintenance logs for compliance and audit purposes.

Selecting a gait analysis mat that excels in both quality and safety ensures reliable data collection, protects users, and supports long-term return on investment. Whether used in a hospital, physical therapy clinic, sports lab, or research facility, prioritizing these factors leads to better outcomes, enhanced user confidence, and compliance with regulatory standards. When in doubt, consult technical specifications and seek third-party certifications to verify claims of performance and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gait Analysis Mats

Q1: What is a gait analysis mat used for?

A gait analysis mat is a sophisticated diagnostic and therapeutic tool designed to evaluate and analyze an individual's walking pattern, or gait cycle, with high precision. By capturing pressure distribution, step length, timing, and foot placement, these mats provide clinicians with detailed biomechanical insights.

Common applications include:

• Rehabilitation: Monitoring recovery progress in patients with neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, Parkinson’s), musculoskeletal injuries, or post-surgical rehabilitation.
• Sports Medicine: Optimizing athletic performance by identifying inefficiencies or asymmetries in runners and athletes.
• Orthopedics: Diagnosing and treating foot deformities such as flat feet, high arches, or limb length discrepancies.
• Ergonomics & Injury Prevention: Assessing workplace or footwear impact on gait to prevent overuse injuries.

The data collected helps professionals tailor custom treatment plans, orthotics, or training programs to improve mobility and reduce injury risk.

Q2: What is the price of gait analysis?

The cost of gait analysis varies significantly depending on the method and technology used:

• Smartphone-Based Analysis: Free or low-cost (under $50) apps use built-in accelerometers and gyroscopes to estimate gait parameters. While convenient, they lack the accuracy and spatial resolution of professional systems.
• Basic Pressure Mats: Entry-level mats start around $500–$1,500 and are suitable for clinics or research with moderate needs.
• Advanced Systems (Treadmill + Pressure Mat): High-end setups with synchronized video, 3D motion capture, and real-time feedback can range from $5,000 to over $20,000.
• Service Costs: Clinical gait analysis sessions typically cost between $150 and $500, depending on location, provider expertise, and depth of assessment.

While hardware-based systems are expensive, they offer unparalleled accuracy and are essential for medical diagnosis and elite sports performance analysis.

Q3: What should people do on a gait analysis mat?

During a gait analysis session, individuals are usually asked to walk naturally across the mat multiple times to ensure consistent and reliable data collection. Specific protocols may vary based on the assessment goal:

• Barefoot Walking: Often required to assess natural foot mechanics, arch function, and pressure distribution without footwear interference.
• Shod Walking: Conducted when evaluating the effectiveness of orthotics, athletic shoes, or work boots on gait dynamics.
• Instructions: Patients may be asked to walk at a normal pace, turn around, or repeat trials to capture variability. Some systems require markers or wearable sensors for enhanced tracking.
• Additional Tasks: May include running, stair climbing, or balance tests, especially in sports or rehabilitation settings.

To ensure accurate results, it's recommended to wear comfortable clothing and bring any prescribed footwear or orthotics used daily.

Q4: What are gait analysis mats made of?

Gait analysis mats are engineered for durability, flexibility, and precise pressure sensing. The most common construction includes:

• Material: High-grade, medical-grade vinyl or polyurethane, chosen for its resistance to wear, moisture, and repeated foot traffic.
• Sensor Technology: Embedded with hundreds to thousands of pressure-sensitive sensors arranged in a grid pattern. These sensors detect force distribution across the foot in real time.
• Layering: Multi-layered design with a protective top layer, conductive sensor layer, and robust backing to prevent deformation.
• Connectivity: Wired (USB or Ethernet) or wireless (Bluetooth) interfaces to transmit data to analysis software for visualization and interpretation.

These materials and technologies work together to deliver accurate, repeatable measurements essential for clinical and research applications.

Q5: What is a normal gait in human beings?

Normal gait refers to the biomechanically efficient and symmetrical walking pattern observed in healthy individuals. It is characterized by a smooth, rhythmic sequence of movements that minimizes energy expenditure and joint stress.

The gait cycle is divided into two main phases:

Phase	Percentage of Cycle	Description
Stance Phase	60%	Foot is in contact with the ground. Includes heel strike, mid-stance, and toe-off. Absorbs body weight and propels forward motion.
Swing Phase	40%	Foot is off the ground, moving forward. Ensures limb advancement for the next step.

Within these phases, six sub-phases exist: heel strike, foot flat, mid-stance, heel-off, toe-off, and swing. A normal gait also exhibits symmetry between left and right limbs, consistent step length, and minimal vertical displacement of the body’s center of gravity. Deviations from this pattern may indicate underlying pathology or biomechanical inefficiency.