Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

  • Not at all.

    We believe that if you run, whether it’s your first ever loop around the block or achieving pro marathon runner status, you are a runner. We help everyone from beginners looking to start safely to lifelong runners focused on longevity and staying active for years to come, and those chasing exciting performance goals (however you may define that for yourself!)

  • No!

    In fact, we encourage you to come in when you aren’t injured. We see many clients who are looking to improve their longevity, performance, or overall experience on the run. By focusing on proactive care like gait analysis, refining run technique, mobility and strength, we can help you build a more resilient body and stay ahead of potential setbacks before they start. We also love working with folks curious about what’s possible for them as they chase big performance goals. 

  • That’s great! While "Runner" is in our name, we believe in the transformative power of movement for everyone. Whether you’re a walker, a hiker, a gym-goer, or just someone who wants to move through daily life with more ease, we’re all in for supporting whatever movement brings you joy. Over the years, we’ve also worked with a ton of athletes in sports like soccer, basketball and hockey to help level up their resilience and performance!

Planning Your Visit

  • Wear comfortable gear to run and move in! Please bring a pair of clean running shoes and any orthotics or insoles you currently use.

    For a Gait Assessment: We recommend wearing contrasting colours (avoiding all-black outfits) and gear that isn’t too baggy. This helps our clinicians and software clearly observe your movement patterns.

  • Yes, though please note that we can’t guarantee availability.

    • St. Clair Ave W (Midtown Toronto): Street parking is available throughout the neighbourhood.

    • Hamilton: If you proceed just beyond our entrance, there is a parking lot on your right. You are welcome to park there or utilize available street parking.

    • Wellington Ave (Downtown Toronto): Street parking is an option, with several public parking lots also available within walking distance. 

  • You bet!

    St. Clair Ave W (Midtown Toronto): 

    • 512 St. Clair Streetcar: Get off at the Wychwood Ave stop. We are just a 1-minute walk east from the stop on the north side of the street.

    • Subway (Line 1): Take the subway to St. Clair West Station. From there, you can hop on the 512 St. Clair streetcar westbound for a 2-minute ride, or enjoy a pleasant 10-minute walk west.

    Wellington: 

    • 504 King Streetcar: Get off at King St West at Portland St. Walk south on Portland for one block to Wellington, then turn right. We are about a 3-minute walk from the stop.

    • 510 Spadina Streetcar: Get off at Spadina Ave at Front St West (The Well). Walk west along Wellington St W for about 4 minutes.

    • Subway: Take Line 1 (Yonge-University) to St. Andrew Station. From there, you can hop on the 504 King streetcar westbound for a 5-minute ride, or walk west for about 15 minutes.

    Hamilton:

    • Route #7:

      • Coming from Downtown: Get off at Chatham at Locke. Walk west for about 4 minutes; we are located on the left.

      • Heading toward Downtown: There is a very convenient stop at 47 Chatham St (near Dundurn), which is only a 2-minute walk from our front door.

    • Route #6: 

      • Get off at Aberdeen at Dundurn. Walk north on Dundurn St S and turn right onto Chatham St (approx. 5-minute walk).

Booking the Right Service

  • Don't worry; you can't go wrong! There is a significant overlap in how we approach every new patient. Regardless of which appointment you choose, we start with an in-depth conversation about your history, goals, and experience. You and the clinician that you’re working with will make a plan together that best supports you!

    • In a Gait Assessment: We include video analysis of your running form to help you find your "sweet spot." You can also expect an assessment of strength and mobility as we learn what drives your movement patterns and strategies, and identify your greatest opportunities for improvement. 

    • In a Physio or Chiro Assessment: We focus on your current injury or performance goals. A gait analysis may be part of this initial visit, or your clinician may help you build it into your game plan down the road. 

    Still not sure? 

    Two choices: 

    1. Let’s chat! Give us a shout at 437-889-5440 or reach out to us here (link to contact page/form). We’ll gladly chat through your goals and connect you with a great fit. 

    2. Book either option. The duration and cost are the same, and we will determine the best path forward together during your session. If you are looking to use Extended Health Benefits (insurance), it may be worth noting that a gait assessment is billed under the clinician's license (e.g., physio or chiro). 

  • At The Runner’s Academy, our Physiotherapists and Chiropractors practice in a very similar manner. Every clinician on our team has extensive training in running mechanics, injury assessment and treatment, and a genuine passion for the sport. No matter who you see, you are being paired with a highly skilled clinician dedicated to your success.

  • In Ontario, you do not need a doctor’s referral to see a Physiotherapist, Chiropractor, or Registered Massage Therapist. However, some private insurance providers may require a referral for reimbursement, so we recommend checking your specific policy if you’re planning to use your extended health benefits.

Insurance & Billing

  • Usually, yes. Most extended health plans cover a portion of each session. Because your assessment is performed by a licensed healthcare professional, services like our Running Gait Assessment are typically billed under your Physiotherapy, Chiropractic, or Osteopathy benefits.

    Note: We recommend contacting your insurer directly to confirm your specific coverage details, as you are responsible for any balance not covered by your provider. We are not able to access information about your insurance coverage ourselves. 

  • We’re happy to! We offer direct billing for most major insurance providers at our Toronto and Hamilton locations. This allows us to submit your claim on your behalf so you only pay the remaining balance at the time of your visit. While each policy is unique and not all insurance providers allow us to bill directly, we will always do our best to process it for you.

  • No problem at all. If your provider doesn't allow direct billing, you will automatically receive a detailed electronic receipt via email. It contains all the information you need to submit your claim for reimbursement in just a few clicks.

Specific Injuries & Specialized Services

  • Absolutely. Our team are experts at understanding running and sports-related injuries and pain. Common conditions we treat include:

    • Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

    • Plantar Fasciitis (Heel and Arch Pain)

    • Achilles Tendinopathy (Tendonitis)

    • Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)

    • IT Band Syndrome (Lateral Knee Pain)

    • Hamstring Strains or Tendinopathy

    • Stress Fractures or Stress Reactions

    • Hip Labral Tears & FAI

    • Gluteal Tendinopathy (Lateral Hip Pain)

    • Meniscus Tears or Knee Strains

    • Ankle Sprains & Chronic Instability

    • Lower Back Pain

    • Morton’s Neuroma (Forefoot Pain)

    • Piriformis Syndrome (Sciatic-like Nerve Pain)

    • Calf Strains & Tears

    • Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (Leaking or pressure while running)

    • Bunions & Big Toe Pain

    • Turf Toe

    • Groin Strains (Adductor Pain)

    • General Overtraining Syndrome

    • Tibialis Posterior Tendinopathy (Tendonitis) 

    • Osteoarthritis 

  • Pelvic health is a critical component of core stability and impact absorption for runners of all genders. Whether you are dealing with leaking while running, pelvic pain, or returning to sport postpartum, our Pelvic Health Physios provide specialized care to help you move with confidence.

  • Running is a whole-body endeavour. Our Naturopathic Doctors focus on internal health (nutrition, recovery, hormones), while our Osteopathic Manual Practitioners ensure that your joints and tissues move in harmony. Together, they help you stay resilient from the inside out.

  • Yes! We support runners worldwide through virtual coaching, gait assessments, and strength and conditioning. We use video analysis to evaluate your movement and training plan, providing expert strategies from the comfort of your home.

    Please note: Virtual Physiotherapy is only available to residents of Ontario. If you are outside of Ontario, these services are categorized as Performance Coaching and may not be billable to insurance as Physiotherapy.