Plantarflexion Score (PF Score)

Plantarflexion Score (PF Score) indicates the amount of plantar flexion that occurs during ground contact and takeoff.

PF Score is a unique Motion Performance Indicator (MPI), available only with LEOMO products.

Summary

Running is always the last toe to touch the ground when taking off.
If you do a plantar flexion (a movement that opens the ankle joint) at that point, not only will it delay takeoff, but it will also use up the small muscles around the ankle.
It is more efficient to run with a small PF Score and avoid bottom flexion as much as possible.

Running is primarily powered by the large hip muscles, and ideally the small muscles at the end should be relaxed as much as possible and only worked when necessary.
The same is true during takeoff, where no additional kicking of the ground is necessary after the force is applied against the ground to create an upward force. However, some runners may accomplish this by performing plantar flexion of the feet.
Plantar flexion is performed by a small group of muscles around the ankle, which not only has little impact on the run, but also wastes energy and can cause cramping and pain.
A low PF Score means that the runner is running without plantar flexion, which can be considered efficient running.

The PF Score is measured in ° and indicates how much bottom bending occurs during takeoff.
It is not affected by speed or cadence. It can be evaluated as it is.

PF Score	Level	Visual Reference
60° ~	Low	Takeoff with significant plantar flexion
55 – 60°	Moderate	Takeoff with a plantar flexion
50 – 55°	High	Takeoff with a little plantar flexion
~ 50°	Exceptional	Takeoff with little or no plantar flexion

Strike AR can be observed in real-time.

Coaches can access the scores in real-time with LEOMO LVS.