The initiation of gait, from standing at rest to the toe-off of the second leg, was analysed in 15 normal subjects wearing shoes. Thirty-two parameters were identified and measured. The pattern of forces, angular movement and timing in this period are described and analysed. Two groups, one of 8 female subjects and another of 7 males, were compared statistically. Sex-related differences were found in the mediolateral and vertical forces as well as in which leg was the first to leave the ground. The values of all the parameters are given, as part of a database to be used in the future for diagnostic and assessment purposes in orthopaedics.