Ottobock, a global health tech innovator and one of the foremost international providers of tailored prosthetic and orthotic mobility solutions, in collaboration with the Paralympic Committee of India, is hosting a three-day Running Clinic starting on 17th March 2025, at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. This eagerly anticipated event is dedicated to empowering athletes with limited mobility. Under the expert guidance of Paralympic gold medalist Heinrich Popow and with access to state-of-the-art prosthetic solutions, participants will be prepared to pursue sport – either as part of daily routine or as a professional athlete.
Over three days, 15 athletes from Ottobock centres and organisations like ALIMCO & PCI will be engaged in multiple activities. On Day 1, athletes will be fitted with Ottobock running blades and participate in focused sessions to master essential running techniques. Day 2 ramps up the momentum with rigorous training exercises followed by a cricket match intended to boost confidence and foster a sense of community. Throughout these sessions, Heinrich will be present, offering personalised guidance and sharing his expertise with every athlete. The final day will include a session with key delegates, including Heinrich Popow: Paralympic gold medalist, Rahul Swami: CEO of Paralympic Committee of India, Mats Frank: Managing Director of Ottobock, Deepa Malik: Former President of Paralympic Committee of India and Ms Manmeet Kaur : Joint Secretary Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Mr. Mats Frank, MD of Ottobock in India said, “Through the Running Clinic, we are igniting a movement that defies limitations and redefines what is possible. This event is a powerful reminder that every individual, regardless of mobility challenges, has the strength to overcome obstacles and inspire change in our communities. Through professional-level coaching and an environment that champions inclusion, the Running Clinic stands as a testament to how sports can inspire change, foster hope, and drive societal shifts.”
Mr. Rahul Swami, CEO of PCI said, “The Running Clinic is a crucial step in shaping the future of adaptive sports in India. For too long, infrastructural and societal barriers have held back talented athletes from realising their full potential. This event will clearly showcase that para-athletes deserve the same level of training, resources, and recognition as any other athlete. We are proud to collaborate with Ottobock in this mission.”
Heinrich Popow, Paralympic gold medalist said, “As an athlete, I know firsthand the power of sport to transform lives. Running for me was about rediscovering my identity, my strength, and my purpose. That is what we are doing here. We are helping athletes believe in themselves, push past limitations, and dream bigger than ever before. Every stride they take on this track is a step toward changing perceptions and proving that nothing is impossible.”
The Running Clinic is poised to become a catalyst for change in India’s movement-related disability landscape. By equipping amputees with the skills, confidence, and technology to compete at the highest level, it is dismantling barriers and forging a path toward true sporting inclusivity.
