The Feasibility and Usability of RunningCoach: A Remote Coaching System for Long-Distance Runners

Abstract

Studies have shown that about half of the injuries sustained during long-distance running involve the knee. Cadence (steps per minute) has been identified as a factor that is strongly associated with these running-related injuries, making it a worthwhile candidate for further study. As such, it is critical for long-distance runners to minimize their risk of injury by running at an appropriate running cadence. In this paper, we present the results of a study on the feasibility and usability of RunningCoach, a mobile health (mHealth) system that remotely monitors running cadence levels of runners in a continuous fashion, among other variables, and provides immediate feedback to runners in an effort to help them optimize their running cadence.

Understanding Different Types of Recreational Runners and How They Use Running-Related Technology

“…Not only has the number of runners using technology increased, but the development of systems related to running (and other sports) has received significant attention in research. Although researchers face real challenges in using technological systems to prevent running injuries [42,43], several studies focus on aspects of improving running technique and minimizing injury [44][45][46][47]. Other researchers focus more on the role of running technology in relation to the social aspects of running [48][49][50][51] and the individual motivation of runners [52,53].…”

“…As mentioned earlier, tracking personalized training data has been cited as the main reason to use technology [25]. Several studies focus on designing new technology for runners to improve their running technique and prevent injury [44][45][46][47], to enhance the social interaction between runners [48][49][50][51], or to motivate individual runners [52,53]. Although technology seems to offer many advantages for runners, Hein et al [75] state that there are also associated (societal) risks, such as loss of social cohesion, privacy, and awareness.…”

Real-time feedback by wearables in running: Current approaches, challenges and suggestions for improvements

“…Leg extension at toe-off due to less knee, ankle or hip extension No evidence available Inconsistent evidence (Lundby et al, 2017;Moore, 2016;Pizzuto et al, 2019;Williams & Cavanagh, 1987), but trend for less leg extension being associated with better economy Peak knee flexion angle during stance Inconsistent evidence (Ceyssens et al, 2019), but trend for smaller flexion being associated with Achilles tendinopathy Conflicting evidence (Folland et al, 2017;Lundby et al, 2017;Tartaruga et al, 2012;Williams & Cavanagh, 1987) (Ceyssens et al, 2019) Inconsistent evidence (Adelson et al, 2005;Santos-Concejero et al, 2017;Williams & Cavanagh, 1987), but trend for lower vertical impact being associated with better economy Horizontal peak braking force Inconsistent evidence (Ceyssens et al, 2019), but trend for greater braking forces being associated with overall injury rate Inconsistent evidence (Kyrolainen, Belli, & Komi, 2001;Santos-Concejero et al, 2017;Støren et al, 2011;Williams & Cavanagh, 1987), but trend for lower braking force being associated with better economy modifications are also recommended to prevent large decreases in running economy and hence performance and motivation. A recent study developed algorithms that use a personalised "steepness curve" based on the physical profile of the runner and data from previous runs to individualise feedback (Aranki, Peh, Kurillo, & Bajcsy, 2018). Results from such studies may provide further insights into how quickly running technique can be modified.…”

“…• Also provide the runners with choices to modify less relevant variables such as the size and colour of the text in the display, the vibration pattern for haptic feedback or the auditory cues. Some wearables allow runners to select which metrics are displayed on the screen (Kiss et al, 2017) or to self-select a speed or cadence range within they would like to run and receive feedback if they are outside of this range (Aranki et al, 2018).…”

Smart Sensing Technologies for Personalised e-Coaching

“…In some cases, like sports, it is also important to provide tailored instructions to avoid possible injuries. In “The Feasibility and Usability of RunningCoach: A Remote Coaching System for Long-Distance Runners” [ 3 ], the authors propose a mobile system that monitors running cadence levels, which are shown to be strongly associated with running-related injuries. The system uses this information to estimate the optimal cadence for the runner, which can in turn modulate their running style while reducing the risk of injuries.…”