Gait for Human Potential

Walking, more than just a functional outcome, can be an unmatched evaluation tool for quality of life.

This course goes beyond the customary study of characteristics of stance and swing phases of gait. By using Integral Human Gait^SM Theory, we try to explore a comprehensive map that surpasses the existing knowledge in physical medicine, therapy, rehabilitation and sport training. The “how” of walking drives physical comfort, emotional well-being, security, and happiness.

We discover the association between spinal and peripheral joints and their unique movement patterns by using the sensory learning platforms of the Somatic Functional Mobilization™, Feldenkrais Method^®, and Bones For Life^®.

In this workshop, you will study the interplay of alignment and pressure through ground reaction forces to answer the following questions:

• What impact does gait have on neck, shoulder and upper/lower back health?
• Why is walking is beneficial only if it is balanced? In what ways does gait resonate with the rhythms of the body?
• Why is gait so important in human health and relieving chronic pain patterns?

Days are sequential but you can choose day one only or the entire workshop. CEUs provided according to days attended. Most details on the objectives/agenda for each day will be posted in the near future.

Learning Theme and Objectives for Each Day

DAY 1 (9:00 am. to 6:00 pm.)

Ground Reaction Forces: The Relationship of Pressure and Alignment

• Description of the development, phases and sequence of movements in the gait cycle.
• Articulating the process of horizontal rotation of the pelvis which frees the foot in the rear and manages the forward leg in the single leg stance phase of gait.
• Demonstration of the Swing Leg, which powers the “Spring” of the Stance Leg.
• Differentiating how the lumbar spine accepts a position of neutrality while performing the swing and stance phase of gait.
• A personal appreciation experience of how a vibrant gait adds to overall well-being.

DAY 2 (9:00 am. to 5:45 pm.)

The Re-organizing Power of Counter-Rotation

• Organizing your head, shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle in a rotation or counter rotation movement pattern.
• Learn to distinguish how rib mobility is important during both the swing and stance phase of gait. To align either the hip, knee or ankle, perform one movement process.
• Realize the value and role of rhythm in contributing to a smooth and efficient gait pattern.

DAY 3 (9:00 am. to 5:00 pm.)

The Dynamic Interaction Between Posture and Gait

• Discover the potential and power of your abdominal muscles' capacity for uprightness.
• Completing the one movement process using the gluteals and/or hip adductors to re-orientate your midline trunk awareness.
• Assess the kinetic chain for the most effective entry point of change for creating enhanced freedom and ease of movement while walking.
• Skillful and powerful demonstration of the ability to stand on one leg.
• Demonstration of 3 ways to align the C7 vertebrae over the forward leg in the single leg stance phase of gait.

Carol Montgomery and Cynthia Allen are co-authors of the Integral Human Gait^SM Theory