# Understanding ABS - Absorb, Bounce, Stability

## Overview

Every runner has strengths and gaps. We test for both. Your Performance Score shows how your body handles impact (Absorb), returns energy (Bounce), and stays stable through movement (Stability). We assess this through controlled strength and movement tests, treadmill footage, and force analysis.

## Let's Start With the Body

### Every runner has strengths and gaps. We test for both.

Your Performance Score shows how your body handles impact (Absorb), returns energy (Bounce), and stays stable through movement (Stability). We assess this through controlled strength and movement tests, treadmill footage, and force analysis.

#### 1. Absorb

How well your joints and muscles reduce impact. If you lack shock absorption, you're more likely to feel soreness after long runs or struggle to recover quickly.

#### 2. Bounce

How much force your body can create and transfer forward. If your bounce score is low, you might feel sluggish or unable to pick up speed when needed.

#### 3. Stability

How well you control your movement and stay aligned. Weakness here often shows up as fatigue late in a run, or tightness in the hips, knees, or ankles.

## Footwear That Fills the Gaps

### Every shoe supports one of the three systems. We show you how.

Each shoe carried at RunAsYouAre is graded by how much it helps with shock absorption, energy return, or control. That means we only match you with shoes based on what your body actually needs, not just what feels good at the moment.

#### Shoes that absorb

Soft foams, wider platforms, and rocker geometry help reduce impact over time. If your body lacks absorption, these shoes support long runs and recovery days.

#### Shoes that bounce

High rebound foams and stiff carbon plates return more energy with each step. If you're trying to run faster or build turnover, you need more bounce.

#### Shoes that stabilize

Tuned midsole geometry, wider bases, and secure heel counters reduce unwanted motion and help your stride stay consistent. This matters most for trail runs, technical routes, or runners with fatigue-related form breakdown.

## Run Goals Mapped to Your Mix

### You don't need all three maxed out. Just the right blend.

Most runners aren't balanced across all three systems. That's normal. We show you which ones matter most for your goal, then help you close the gap.

#### Run Long

**Endurance and efficiency**

You'll need strong Absorb and Stability scores. Long runs expose weakness in impact reduction and form control.

#### Run Fast

**Speed and power**

Bounce is the focus here. Power and speed demand better energy return and forward propulsion.

#### Run Technical

**Balance and control**

Stability becomes critical. Trails and uneven terrain reveal control gaps fast — especially when fatigued.

## Everything Works Together

### Body. Score. Shoes. Plan.

We test your movement, score your capabilities, and use that data to match footwear and build your plan. It's not a guess, it's all connected. And it changes as you improve.

Your Performance Score reveals your gaps. Your footwear match fills them in. Your program builds them up. Your goals stay front and center.