Which of the following describes an abnormal foot or gait pattern?

Supination, also known as underpronation, refers to a foot movement where the foot rolls outward during gait, placing excessive pressure on the outer edges of the foot. This pattern is considered abnormal because it can lead to improper weight distribution and increased risk of injury, such as ankle sprains or issues with the knee and hip due to the lack of shock absorption and insufficient rolling of the foot inward.

In contrast, mild pronation and neutral pronation are typically viewed as normal variations of foot mechanics. They provide a balance of flexibility and stability, allowing for proper shock absorption during running and walking. A normal foot strike indicates an appropriate and biomechanically advantageous way of landing, contributing to efficient movement.

Understanding these terms is essential for coaches because recognizing abnormal gait patterns helps in developing training programs and selecting appropriate footwear to prevent injuries and enhance performance.