At its core, rehabilitation is about more than just regaining function—it’s about restoring confidence, independence, and hope. Every day, as therapists, we get to witness moments where patients achieve what once felt impossible. GaitBetter allows us to amplify those moments, harnessing cutting-edge technology to make therapy not just effective, but also engaging and empowering.

But let’s take a step back. How do we, as operators, ensure we’re using GaitBetter to its full potential? The answer lies in focusing on intensity, frequency, and repetition, paired with a patient-centered approach that inspires trust and motivates progress.

This isn’t just about running great therapy sessions; it’s about creating an environment where patients feel supported, challenged, and capable of real, lasting change.

The Heart of Gait Rehabilitation: Why Intensity, Frequency, and Repetition Matter

Imagine trying to learn a new skill—say, playing the guitar. Practicing sporadically, without structure or clear goals, wouldn’t get you very far. Now picture practicing regularly, with the right level of challenge and feedback. That’s how real progress is made. Rehabilitation works the same way.

When we combine frequent, focused practice with appropriate intensity and repetition, we unlock the body’s ability to adapt. This is especially important for patients relearning to walk or improving balance and coordination after an injury, surgery, or neurological condition.

GaitBetter integrates these principles seamlessly:

• Intensity: Patients work hard while remaining engaged and safe.
• Frequency: Regular sessions build momentum and keep skills sharp.
• Repetition: Each step taken reinforces new motor patterns and strengthens the connection between brain and body.

Practical Strategies for Success with GaitBetter

1. Make Every Minute Count

Every session should include at least 10 minutes of active walking. It doesn’t have to be continuous—break it into manageable intervals if needed—but those minutes of focused practice are where progress happens. Encourage patients to push themselves while ensuring they feel safe and supported.

2. Make Training Fit Your Schedule

Consistency is key. Aim for 2–5 sessions per week, as this range allows for steady progress and meaningful results. While daily sessions are possible for some patients, it’s important to work within the realities of your clinic’s schedule and the patient’s availability. Flexibility is essential—whether it’s twice a week or more, the goal is to maintain regularity and momentum.

Set clear expectations with patients early on, explaining how consistent practice directly supports their recovery. By aligning therapy schedules with their goals and lifestyle, you can help them commit to the program and stay motivated.

3. Commit to a Full Program

While every session is valuable, the real magic happens with 6–10 visits. At six sessions, you’ll start to see measurable improvements. By 10, patients will have built the confidence and skill they need to maintain their progress beyond the clinic.

4. Measure and Celebrate Progress

Tracking progress isn’t just a clinical necessity—it’s a motivational tool. Select a few meaningful metrics (like the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go, Functional Gait Assessment, or 10-Meter Walk Test) and use them to highlight improvements. Patients love seeing their numbers improve—it reinforces their effort and keeps them coming back.

5. Personalize the Journey

Every patient is unique, and GaitBetter is designed to adapt. Use the VR tasks to tailor sessions to each individual’s goals and abilities. Adjust difficulty, add cognitive challenges, or focus on a specific side or type of obstacles. When therapy feels relevant and customized, patients are more likely to engage fully.

Positive Insights to Inspire Therapists and Patients

1. GaitBetter is a Game-Changer for Motivation
   One of GaitBetter’s greatest strengths is how it makes therapy fun. The gamified tasks and immersive environment help patients forget they’re working hard. They stay engaged, focused, and—most importantly—excited to come back. This isn’t just therapy; it’s an experience.
2. Safety Breeds Confidence
   The safety harness is more than a piece of equipment—it’s a confidence booster. Patients can push themselves without fear of falling, which encourages them to try harder and reach beyond what they thought was possible.
3. Every Step is an Opportunity
   Remember, every single step on the treadmill is a chance for improvement. Whether it’s perfecting foot placement, negotiating a virtual obstacle, or multitasking with a cognitive task, each moment contributes to long-term gains.
4. Small Wins Build Big Momentum
   Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. The first time a patient completes a task without hesitation or increases their walking speed by just a few seconds is worth celebrating. These moments build the confidence that fuels larger achievements.
5. You’re Building More Than Strength—You’re Building Hope
   When a patient feels steady on their feet for the first time in months or realizes they can walk farther without fatigue, it’s not just about physical recovery. It’s about restoring hope and independence. That’s the real power of what we do.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Make Every Step Count

As therapists, we have the privilege of guiding patients on their journey to recovery. With GaitBetter, we’re equipped with a tool that not only makes therapy more effective but also more engaging and empowering. By focusing on intensity, frequency, and repetition, paired with a patient-centered approach, we can help every individual reach their full potential.

Let’s keep challenging ourselves to do better for our patients. Let’s use GaitBetter not just as a tool but as a bridge—to confidence, mobility, and a better quality of life.

Every step matters. Let’s make them count.

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by: Sagi Giterman, PT, Director of Product & Customer Success, GaitBetter.