What Causes Runner’s Knee?

What Causes Runner’s Knee? Insights from a Personal Trainer in London

What Causes Runner’s Knee? Expert Insight from London Personal Trainer Scott Bryant

Runner’s knee isn’t just for marathoners. It’s often caused by muscle imbalances, poor biomechanics, tight quads, or weak glutes—and yes, even bad posture. As a top personal trainer in London, Scott Bryant specializes in identifying the root cause and correcting it through targeted exercises, mobility work, and holistic movement coaching. Stop chasing pain—start correcting it

The root causes usually include:

Muscle imbalances (weak glutes or quads = bad news for knees)
Poor running form or biomechanics
Overtraining or sudden mileage increases
Tight hamstrings or IT band

Worn-out running shoes (Yes, those “vintage” runners from 2019 are probably toast)

♂️ How to Prevent and Fix It

Here’s where the magic happens—and where a great personal trainer can seriously make a difference.

✅ 1. Strength Training

Focus on glutes, quads, hamstrings, and core. Think:

lateral ball row
Hip extensions
Single-leg squats
Wall angels
Bent over row
(they look weird, but they work)

✅ 2. Foam Rolling & Stretching

Target the IT band, quads, and calves. Roll like you’re kneading out last year’s stress.

✅ 3. Improve Your Running Form

A small tweak in posture or stride can relieve huge pressure from your knees. A running coach or biomechanical assessment can be a game-changer.

✅ 4. Shoe Check

Make sure you’re in the right type of running shoes for your gait—and that they’re not past their expiry date (typically 300–500 miles).

✅ 5. Rest and Modify

Back off the intensity or switch to low-impact workouts like swimming or cycling until symptoms improve.

What Causes Runner’s Knee? Personal trainer London

Scott Bryant is the Active Bryant Fitness Systems

When to Call in a Pro

If knee pain persists even after rest and rehab, it’s time to consult a professional—ideally someone who understands how biomechanics, strength, and running technique all fit together. (Hint: that’s where someone like me comes in!)

Final Thoughts

Runner’s Knee is annoying—but it doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker. With the right mix of smart training, strength work, and a little TLC, your knees can carry you comfortably through your next race—or even just a pain-free jog in the park.

Ready to run pain-free again? Let’s talk about a personalised program to bulletproof those knees and keep you moving strong.

What is a CHEK Practitioner?

The CHEK Institute (Corrective Holistic Exercise Kinesiology) trains practitioners in a cutting-edge, holistic approach to health, movement, and performance. CHEK Practitioners are trained to assess and correct:

Muscle imbalances and posture
Core dysfunction and pain
Stress and lifestyle factors
Nutrition and sleep habits
Mind-body connection

Think of it as personal training meets health coaching meets post-rehab therapy—with science and soul.

✅ 7 Ways a CHEK Personal Trainer Can Help You

1. Fix Chronic Pain at the Root

Got back pain, shoulder tension, or knee issues? A CHEK trainer doesn’t just mask the pain—they assess your posture, movement patterns, and core function to find the true cause and build a custom plan to correct it.

2. Customised Fitness for YOUR Body

Forget “one-size-fits-none” workouts. CHEK trainers design programs based on your biomechanics, lifestyle, stress load, goals, and even gut health.

“No two clients get the same workout—because no two bodies need the same solution.”

3. Improve Posture and Movement Efficiency

Whether you’re an athlete, desk jockey, or busy parent, improving your posture and movement helps reduce injury, boost energy, and move with ease.

4. Build Real Core Strength

We’re not talking six-pack crunches. We’re talking about functional core training that supports your spine, improves balance, and powers up everything from lifting to running.

5. Holistic Lifestyle Coaching

CHEK Practitioners help you optimise:

Nutrition (based on metabolic typing)
Sleep cycles and circadian rhythms
Hydration and digestion
Stress management techniques

Because no workout can out-train a stressed, underfed, and under-rested body.

6. Rehabilitation After Injury

Recovering from injury or surgery? A CHEK trainer can guide you through intelligent, corrective movement strategies to safely rebuild strength and function.

7. Long-Term Results Without Burnout

CHEK training is about sustainability, not just short-term sweat. Clients build strength, energy, and resilience for life—not just for summer.

Who Should Work With a CHEK Personal Trainer?

This approach is ideal if you:

Struggle with pain or recurring injuries
Want a smarter, more holistic approach to fitness
Are managing a health condition (thyroid, adrenal fatigue, gut issues, etc.)
Feel “burned out” by traditional training
Want to feel strong, functional, and energised—not just lean

Looking for a CHEK Practitioner in London?

If you’re based in Battersea or anywhere in London, working with a qualified CHEK Personal Trainer can dramatically improve your fitness, posture, and quality of life. (Hint: I happen to know a guy )

Final Thoughts

A CHEK Practitioner doesn’t just count reps—they connect the dots. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start progressing, it’s time to get a truly holistic coach in your corner.

What Causes Runner’s Knee? Personal trainer London