InStep Physical Therapy & Running Center was founded in 2003 by Tom Labisch and Bob Corby, both physical therapists, and John Ochsenwald, an athletic trainer. Their goal was to create a place where both athletes and non-athletes alike could come for physical therapy, injury treatment, rehabilitation, biomechanical evaluations, massage therapy, and custom orthotics; as well as a specialty running store where runners and walkers could be properly outfitted with the correct running & walking shoes, fitness apparel, and accessories. The best of both worlds, going beyond the shoe.

InStep's first store, in Mequon, Wisconsin, quickly gained a reputation in the Milwaukee area as the "place to go" for full-service physical therapy, expert advice on athletic injury rehabilitation and prevention, and the best-fitting running shoes and walking shoes.

Three years later, the partners opened InStep Physical Therapy & Running Center stores in the Historic Third Ward of Milwaukee, downtown Delafield, and Hales Corners, Wisconsin. The InStep philosophy and mission is the driving force at each location – to provide people of all ages and abilities with the tools and knowledge they need to stay injury-free and function at their highest levels. InStep also helps enhance the local running community through event sponsorship and organization, and educational seminars and clinics.