Force plate testing: measuring your power and balance

Force plates are highly sensitive platforms that measure the forces you push into the ground as you stand, squat and jump. We use VALD ForceDecks as part of our Health Autonomy assessment in Chudleigh.

What happens

You stand on two platforms, one under each foot, and do a few simple movements such as standing still, squatting and jumping. The movements are adapted to you, so it’s suitable whether you’re an athlete or haven’t exercised in years.

What it measures

• Peak power: how much force you can produce, and how quickly.
• Left/right asymmetry: how evenly you share the load between your two legs.

Why it matters as you get older

Many people assume losing balance is just part of getting older, but it’s often linked to weakness or poor movement patterns that can be trained. Force plates reveal hidden compensations, like leaning on one leg, so we can correct them before they lead to joint strain, poor balance or falls.

Why athletes use it

The same data shows jump power and left/right differences that can limit performance and are often linked to injury. Retesting on the same equipment shows whether your training is working and whether a recovering limb has caught up.

Even better alongside body composition

Our Tanita body composition analyser measures the muscle in each arm and leg. Put the two together and we can see whether a weaker side has less muscle, less power, or both, and target your training accordingly.

What to wear

Comfortable clothes and trainers you can squat and move in.

Read about choosing an osteopath or physio for a sports injury · See all six tests