If you’re an avid runner, you could fall into one of two camps. You are the pain that comes with long-distance running, and you want nothing to distract you with every step, every breath you take, every wave of your arm. No music, no podcasts. none. just bring it!
Or you like to sweat but don’t want to hurt yourself in the process. If the latter describes you, you’re in luck. These gadgets are just what he needs to improve his running workout just a little bit.
1. Smart running shoes
Several companies have released smart running shoes over the last few years. Running shoe technology hasn’t advanced much, but options like the Under Armor HOVR Sonic 3 and Xiaomi Mijia are available.
These smart running shoes contain sensors that can record your running data and send it to your smartphone via Bluetooth. This means you can leave your smartphone and fitness tracker or smartwatch at home and run with just the shoes on your feet, tracking your distance and cadence.
Put on your smart running shoes and download an app that simulates being chased by zombies, or download a dedicated app that plays running music, and you might be able to break the land speed record. I can’t. It may not be, but it can take your running to the next level.
2. Bone conduction headphones
Bone conduction headphones may sound like something that should carry a warning label, but these non-invasive technologies couldn’t be safer. Maybe… seriously.
Bone conduction headphones like the Shokz OpenRun work by resting them on your cheekbones rather than inserting them in your ears. Instead of vibrating the ear canal to transmit audio to the eardrum and then to the cochlea (receiver in the ear), vibrations from bone conduction headphones are sent directly to the cochlea, completely bypassing the eardrum.
Bone conduction headphones may not provide the same level of hearing as in-ear headphones, but they do let you hear what’s in your environment, such as speeding cars, zombie stampedes, and other hazards runners want to avoid.
3. Heart rate monitor
If you’re a runner, it’s very beneficial to monitor your heart rate to determine how hard you’re pushing yourself during each run. To increase, you need to run in your ideal heart rate range. A heart rate monitor helps you reach the right zone for a great workout every time.
Multi-purpose fitness trackers that record your heart rate may help provide rough baseline numbers, but can you trust heart-rate tracking apps to be as accurate as medical devices? Especially when you’re exercising. , you want the best possible metric.
It’s possible to use a heart rate monitor with the Apple Watch and other fitness trackers and smartwatches, but it’s much less accurate than a dedicated heart rate monitor that you wear on your arm (preferably around your chest).
If you’re serious about heart rate tracking, check out the Polar H10 or Garmin HRM Pro. Both devices are worn on the chest and pair with a smartphone or smartwatch using Bluetooth and ANT+ technology to provide the most accurate heart rate measurement possible.
4. Fitness tracker
There are several factors to consider before investing in a fitness tracker. However, if you’re a runner, especially if you exercise extensively (perhaps doing multiple sports and wanting to stay in top shape), a fitness tracker could be your best friend. For example, there are many Fitbit fitness tracking tips you can use. Turn your wearable into a stopwatch, view your fitness goals, be alerted when it’s time to go to bed, or follow guided workouts.
On the other hand, if you want less screen time instead of strapping another screen to your wrist, consider checking out the Whoop Strap 4.0. The feature and selling point of this fitness tracker is that it has no screen or notifications. It’s just a band with some sensors that collect data constantly.
Like many fitness trackers, the Whoop device has a minimalist design. Unlike others, Hoop Strap and its companion app only work on a subscription model. Subscriptions are expensive, but for some, the benefits may be worth the cost.
5. Smartwatch
The beauty of using a smartwatch as a running companion is that it can serve as multiple gadgets at once. Play up-tempo running playlists, track distance, and monitor heart rate.
For example, the Garmin Forerunner 255 can not only track your running distance, but also monitor your heart rate and control your music. Plus, if you’re using it all day, it tracks your sleep, suggests workouts, and lets you pay for your post-workout protein shake with Garmin Pay contactless payments.
There are other smartwatches like the Apple Watch Series 8 that perform many of the same functions, but each device on the market has one or two features that make it the most compelling. Check the specifications before purchasing a fitness tracker or smartwatch. For example, the latest Samsung Galaxy Watch features a cutting-edge BioActive sensor that enables body composition measurements that other smartwatches cannot yet.
Need another running gadget?
As a runner, you may be the type of person who enjoys time away from the computer and enjoys time away from distractions (kids, work, etc.). Maybe you just want to disconnect while getting your blood pumping and your endorphins moving. And it’s a great way to improve your physical and mental well-being.
At the same time, you can take your running workout to the next level with smart gadgets. This allows you to reach new levels of performance, break personal records and get a sense of accomplishment that makes your efforts even more worthwhile. .
