Gabriel Landeskog, captain of the Colorado Avalanche, is using in-skate sensors and an AI-driven movement platform to manage his knee injury and workload. The sensors, placed in the insoles of his skates and sneakers, collect biomechanical data during practices, games, training, and even walks with his dog. This data helps him avoid overexertion and prevent setbacks.
The technology, developed by Vancouver-based company Plantiga, measures movement patterns, asymmetry, and whether Landeskog is favouring his surgically repaired right knee. It calculates workloads, stride characteristics, and foot mechanics on various surfaces. The platform flags potential issues before they become problematic, allowing Landeskog to take breaks when needed.
Landeskog's knee issues began after a skate blade cut his right knee during the 2020 playoffs. He helped the Avalanche win the Stanley Cup in 2022 but then missed a full season before undergoing cartilage replacement surgery in May 2023. He was introduced to Plantiga in spring 2024 and has since used the technology to guide his return.
Plantiga's system, named 'Norman' after co-founder Norman McKay, has been used by athletes in the NBA, NFL, WNBA, MLB, and other sports. Matthew Jordan, vice president of performance science at Plantiga, described the goal as detecting 'the smoke before the fire' to prevent injuries. Landeskog has credited the platform with helping him stay at his best, stating, 'This detects any red flags before I even feel them.'
