The company, a partner of the Paralympic Games since Seoul 1988 and recently confirmed its partnerships as official provider of technical services for the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, hosts its clinics in countries right around the world.

They are designed for novices, as well as experienced runners looking for tips on how to improve their technique and competitiveness.

They offer participants the opportunity to trial the latest technology in sports prosthesis, the Ottobock 3S80 knee and sprinter foot, under the expert tuition of Germany's Heinrich Popow, winner of seven Paralympic medals, including gold in the T42 100 metres at London 2012. 

Participants of the first Chinese running clinic organised by Ottobock Healthcare test out the Ottobock 3S80 knee and sprinter foot in Zhengzhou ©Facebook



The first clinic to be held in Zhengzhou, China, was supported by the He Nan Disabled Persons' Federation and saw nine participating amputees coached by Popow.

The clinics incorporate a format that enables all levels of runners to work together, from taking their first steps to practicing training drills until they are running with confidence.

"Whether it is to simply enjoy sports with their children or follow a dream to compete in the Paralympic Games, it is critical that anyone learning to run on a prosthesis has their equipment set up properly and is taught the right techniques from the start," said Popow, an Ottobock Ambassador.

"Teaching people to run for the first time, and seeing the joy it brings to them and their families means as much to me as competing in the Paralympic Games."

London 2012 Paralympic gold medallist Heinrich Popow was greeted enthusiastically by crowds at the Ottobock Healthcare running clinic in Zhengzhou ©Facebook

With over 20 years' experience of using a sports prosthesis, Popow has worked alongside Ottobock product developers to develop the 3S80, a sports knee joint for beginners, recreational and high performance athletes alike.

"With the rise in popularity of the Paralympic Games we are seeing a significant interest in people looking to become more active and try new sports," said Ralph Stuch, Ottobock regional President for Asia Pacific.

"For many people an active lifestyle is an important part of this and the Ottobock 3S80 running knee makes this possible for more amputees than ever before.

"It is ideal for using on the treadmill and a variety of outdoor environments, as well as other sports that involve running."

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