Validity and Test–Retest Reliability of Spatiotemporal Running Parameter Measurement Using Embedded Inertial Measurement Unit Insoles

Abstract

Running is the basis of many sports and has highly beneficial effects on health. To increase the understanding of running, DSPro® insoles were developed to collect running parameters during tasks. However, no validation has been carried out for running gait analysis. The aims of this study were to assess the test–retest reliability and criterion validity of running gait parameters from DSPro® insoles compared to a motion-capture system. Equipped with DSPro® insoles, a running gait analysis was performed on 30 healthy participants during overground and treadmill running using a motion-capture system. Using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), the criterion validity and test–retest reliability of spatiotemporal parameters were calculated. The test–retest reliability shows moderate to excellent ICC values (ICC > 0.50) except for propulsion time during overground running at a fast speed with the motion-capture system. The criterion validity highlights a validation of running parameters regardless of speeds (ICC > 0.70). This present study validates the good criterion validity and test–retest reliability of DSPro® insoles for measuring spatiotemporal running gait parameters. Without the constraints of a 3D motion-capture system, such insoles seem to be helpful and relevant for improving the care management of active patients or following running performance in sports contexts.