Every R3S is a graduate of an accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy Assistant, or Athletic Training program.

Recreational Running Rehab Specialists complete a comprehensive, evidence based curriculum of at least 20-hours of post-professional continuing education immersion in all aspects of providing rehabilitation for the injured recreational runner.

The R3S Certification Exam tests for proficiency through written questions, video assessments and case studies encompassing content in the following areas:

1. Establishing a well-rounded plan of care that encompasses the 3 Dimensions of Running
2. Identifying candidates for a video running analysis based on subjective assessment while differentiating various common running related injury clinical presentations as they apply to varying diagnoses.
3. Administering the appropriate physical performance test at the appropriate time in the injured runner’s rehabilitation to ensure they meet standards required to safely engage in a running program.
4. Understanding the best available evidence for choosing interventions and modifications to running mechanics specifically related to the injured runner’s diagnosis.
5. Choosing the most appropriate method of running video recording based on specified criteria.
6. Describing the objective measures assessed in the running video
7. Assessing and interpret the clinically relevant components of the running analysis video as related to the patient’s specific clinical presentation
8. Identifying conservative treatments that address specific findings from the running analysis including targeted stretching and strengthening.
9. Assembling an appropriate plan for implementation of situationally specific running mechanics dysfunctions.
10. Providing situationally specific recommendations for appropriate running gear, shoes and various race distance training plans.
11. Creating an outline for a group run class and screening process for participants.

The R3S ensures they are up to date with the latest research and industry trends through continual engagement in monthly Recreational Running Rehab professional training sessions.