Run Smart.
Run Easy.
Running assessments, injury management and coaching for the recreational runner
RunningSmart was founded by a biokineticist with one goal: to make running simpler, smarter, and more enjoyable.
Too many runners are left guessing — about injuries, training load, pacing, and recovery. RunningSmart takes out the guesswork, giving you clear, science-based guidance through running assessments, VO₂ max testing, gait analysis, injury rehab, and coaching.
The aim? To give you the knowledge and confidence to enjoy every step.
RunningSmart works from two practices in Cape Town and Durbanville, making it easy for runners in both the city and the northern suburbs to access care and support.
Biokinetics is the science of movement and exercise used to prevent injury, support recovery, and improve performance. Biokineticists assess strength, mobility, stability, and biomechanics to design personalised exercise programmes that help you move better and perform at your best.
Physiotherapists typically treat the early stages of an injury – easing pain, improving mobility, and helping you get started on the road to recovery. Biokineticists build on this foundation by focusing on exercise to rebuild strength, restore full function, and help you return safely to sport or daily life.
Common running injuries treated include ITB syndrome, shin splints, knee pain, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon injuries, and recurring issues such as hip, ankle, or muscle pain. Non-running injuries that affect movement, strength, or stability are also treated using the same biokineticist-led, evidence-based approach.
Running gait is the way your body moves when you run. It involves how your feet land, how your legs and hips move, and how your entire body works with each stride. Analysing gait helps identify imbalances or inefficiencies to improve performance and reduce injury risk.
VO₂ max is the maximum amount of oxygen your body can use during exercise. It reflects how efficiently your heart, lungs, and circulatory system deliver oxygen to your muscles — a key measure of endurance and fitness.
VO₂ max is tested on a treadmill while breathing, heart rate, and oxygen usage are monitored. The intensity gradually increases to accurately measure your aerobic capacity and fitness level.
Coaching is available for beginners, recreational runners, and runners returning from injury. Programmes are tailored for both road and trail running — from 5 km races to ultra-distance events.
Every plan is designed around your fitness level, schedule, and goals. Plans are flexible and adapt as your training or lifestyle changes, ensuring consistent progress.
A GPS watch helps track runs more accurately but isn’t essential. Manual feedback works just as well. Consistency matters more than equipment.
Yes. Coaching runs on a month-to-month basis, and you can pause or cancel at any time without penalties.
Coaching is primarily online, giving you flexibility to train from anywhere. In-person assessments and testing are available at the Cape Town and Durbanville practices for premium packages.
Yes. Coaching is offered for a wide range of road and trail races, including 10 km, half marathons, marathons, ultra-distance events, Two Oceans, and HYROX races.
No referral is needed. You can book an assessment directly. If necessary, your biokineticist will collaborate with your doctor or physiotherapist to coordinate care.
Most assessments take 60–90 minutes. This allows enough time for a full evaluation, discussion of your training background, and clear next steps.
Wear comfortable activewear and running shoes that allow easy movement. If you’re coming for a running assessment, bring your current running shoes — and any others you use regularly.
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