The biomechanical requirements for successful gait initiation are the generation of a momentum (in the forward direction and in the direction of the stance limb) and the maintenance of balance.
Most studies concerning human gait have focused on steady state walking.
However, for safe independent locomotion other aspects of gait are important as well. The transition from standing to walking is a task, which is often required in daily life balance control.
Compared to steady state walking, the demands placed on the neuromuscular system are increased in gait initiation, since a complex integration on neural mechanisms, muscle activity and biomechanical forces is necessary [1,2].
Postural adjustment and muscle activity at ankle and hip level are needed to initiate gait.