Running Performance Program Returns to Help Runners of All Experience Levels
May 04, 2026
Runners of all experience levels can now access specialized support to enhance performance and help prevent injury through the Running Performance Program at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital.
Led by experienced physical therapists, the program helps runners move more efficiently and safely through a personalized, one-on-one approach. Using a detailed evaluation of how a person moves and runs, the program identifies areas for improvement and provides clear, practical steps to help runners perform at their best.
“We’re very excited to bring back the Running Performance Program to the Metro East,” said Tom Dibadj, Manager of Rehabilitation at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. “Our program provides individualized support to runners of all levels. Whether you are an experienced runner returning from injury or someone training for your first 5K, our physical therapy team uses their expertise to assess, analyze and advise.”
Each one-hour assessment includes an evaluation of strength, stability, flexibility and mobility, along with a gait analysis to review cadence, symmetry and how the body handles impact while running. Participants also receive education on their results and a customized exercise program tailored to their goals.
“Once we complete the evaluation and assessment, we develop an individualized education plan and exercise program focused on each runner’s goals and based on what we’ve learned throughout the process,” said Dibadj.
The Running Performance Program is open to runners of junior high age and older, including athletes returning from injury, individuals experiencing chronic pain and anyone looking to improve efficiency and performance.
Assessments cost $165 and are cash pay. Package options that include follow-up visits are also available.
To learn more and to schedule an assessment visit here.
Led by experienced physical therapists, the program helps runners move more efficiently and safely through a personalized, one-on-one approach. Using a detailed evaluation of how a person moves and runs, the program identifies areas for improvement and provides clear, practical steps to help runners perform at their best.
“We’re very excited to bring back the Running Performance Program to the Metro East,” said Tom Dibadj, Manager of Rehabilitation at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. “Our program provides individualized support to runners of all levels. Whether you are an experienced runner returning from injury or someone training for your first 5K, our physical therapy team uses their expertise to assess, analyze and advise.”
Each one-hour assessment includes an evaluation of strength, stability, flexibility and mobility, along with a gait analysis to review cadence, symmetry and how the body handles impact while running. Participants also receive education on their results and a customized exercise program tailored to their goals.
“Once we complete the evaluation and assessment, we develop an individualized education plan and exercise program focused on each runner’s goals and based on what we’ve learned throughout the process,” said Dibadj.
The Running Performance Program is open to runners of junior high age and older, including athletes returning from injury, individuals experiencing chronic pain and anyone looking to improve efficiency and performance.
Assessments cost $165 and are cash pay. Package options that include follow-up visits are also available.
To learn more and to schedule an assessment visit here.
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Kelly Barbeau
System Director, Communications & Public Relations