A digital graphic titled “IMU Lab Experiment: Gait Kinematics and Symmetry.” The background shows a screenshot of a Noraxon IMU Gait Lab Report displaying gait phase illustrations and symmetry parameters. Overlaid in the foreground is glowing blue cursive text that reads “Gait Kinematics and Symmetry,” paired with the structured IMU Lab Experiment logo in the upper left corner. The image visually represents a biomechanics lab experiment focused on gait phase analysis and movement symmetry using IMU sensors.

Gait Kinematics and Symmetry

In this lab, students will use an IMU-based motion capture system to measure and analyze lower-limb movement throughout the gait cycle. By comparing joint angles and timing between the left and right sides, they will assess gait symmetry and explore the biomechanical factors that influence walking patterns.

Why Analyze
Gait Kinematics & Symmetry?

Symmetrical gait patterns typically indicate balanced muscle activation, joint coordination, and neuromuscular control, while asymmetries can signal compensations, weakness, or injury.

By examining parameters such as stride timing, joint angles, and phase durations, clinicians and researchers can identify subtle deviations that may lead to overuse injuries, impaired performance, or mobility issues. This analysis not only aids in diagnosing and tracking rehabilitation progress but also provides valuable insights for optimizing movement efficiency in both healthy and clinical populations.

Participant seated in a chair in a biomechanics lab, wearing EMG sensors on the thigh to prepare for a sit-to-stand movement assessment.
A screenshot of a Noraxon IMU Gait Lab Report displaying gait phase analysis. The report includes a series of illustrated walking figures showing the stance and swing phases, along with labeled events such as heel strike and toe-off. Below the visuals, a table lists gait phase parameters comparing left and right stance phases with percentage and variability data. The interface shows options for exporting, editing, and viewing reports within the Noraxon software.

Learning Objectives for Students

Identification of Biomechanical Events

Students will interpret the collected data to identify key gait events such as heel strike, toe-off, and peak flexion or extension.

Data Collection & Analysis

Students will use an IMU-based motion capture system to analyze lower-limb kinematics and record joint angle data throughout the gait cycle.

Symmetry Evaluation & Interpretation

By comparing temporal and angular parameters between the left and right sides, students will assess gait symmetry, explore potential causes of asymmetry, and reinforce concepts related to kinematic analysis, movement variability, and gait mechanics in both healthy and clinical populations.