The popularity of running as a sport has grown during recent years points out regular runner Steven Rindner. As one of the easiest and most comfortable types of aerobic exercise available, it is also one of the most affordable disciplines. However, technology is highly effective in making the most of running. The technologies are available in the form of various portable devices which are highly flexible. These wearable technologies can monitor training, evaluate data, and support the development of running performance.
- Heart Rate Monitor: Calculating the heart rate is useful to track the energy level and prevent straining the heart. The heart rate monitor allows users to monitor their heart rate and review their effort during running. It is also a valuable tool for finding the proper training zone and working more accurately in the right zone. The heart rate monitor is used more in light runs than in breaks. This is because the heart rate does not increase immediately when the speed increases, but it takes almost thirty seconds for the heart to adjust to the new rate. It can also be used to calculate recovery between intervals. These monitors come in different types. The most scientific and reliable is the heart rate monitor with a chest strap.
- GPS Watches: GPS watches are becoming gradually more advanced in recent times. They merge the functions of other devices in a single watch, such as calculating heart rate. However, these readings are not accurate as compared to the heart rate monitor. GPS technology also allows runners to monitor distance, route, speed, and time. Some advanced watches provide improved analysis such as calculating ground contact time, and trail length. It also assesses the recovery time required. All these data and figures are used to determine individual growth regularly, as per Steven Rindner.
- Running Apps: There are different running Apps that, once installed on the smartphone, can cover the exact functions of smartwatches. Runners can download virtual running Apps which provide training plans according to their individual requirements.
- Headphones: Listening to music while running is a common practice. It makes time go by quickly, and also motivates and boosts runners to improve their performance. Wireless headphones are the most popular these days. Users can connect them to their phone or smartwatch without the obstruction of wires. Runners can escape bringing their phone around by connecting their GPS watch with headphones. Headphones can be used to record the run specific information and intervening results live to the ears during the performance of an online run.
Tips for Running Safety
- Runners should stay cautious of their surroundings.
- Keep the earbud volume low so that they can hear sounds around them.
- When running along roads, they should follow all traffic rules. Running against the traffic and not with the traffic is the best idea. They should be prepared to take vague action.
- Runners should look both ways at crossings
- On general trails, they should follow the rules of the road. When changing direction, runners should look over their shoulder before crossing the path to escape crashing with a passing runner or cyclist, explains Steven Rindner.
- Runners should announce their technique when overtaking and passing other runners.
- They should avoid dark areas, particularly at night, and run clear of parked cars and bushes.
- Runners should overlook verbal provocation and always keep distance.
- Runners need to warm up before a run and stretch afterward to help prevent injuries.
Running is a hugely appreciated and practiced sport, and many runners use wearable technology to improve their performance. By introducing these devices into their regular schedule, runners can keep their determination high. It also monitors their progress and makes the most of their running experience.