¶ AR and Tech for Runners
So you're thinking about running but not sure how to take the first step . My name is Brian Patterson and I'm here to help . Welcome to Brian's Rompod . Welcome to Brian's Rompod , where we bring you the latest and greatest technology , and today we're focusing on the best tech for runners in 2023 and moving into 2024 .
Now , I know we have covered technology before , but also today we're going to be looking at augmented reality and I hope to give you in simple terms what it is and how it relates to the future of running . Really interesting . Without further ado , let's get right into the episode . So , as runners , we have simplicity and functionality .
We want gear and accessories that enhance our running experience without weighing us down . Now , whether this enhances our run is debatable and the jury is out . However , today we're obsessed with data and tech . So here are the top five must-haves for our minimalist runners .
We will look at the i4c 360 rotable arm band , the A6 men's road 2N1 shorts and the A6 unisex waist pack and the Garmin 4Runner 955 solar Plus . Have a look at the Peloton . Don't worry , I will have links to all the watches in the description and all this tech in the description of this podcast .
So , first up , we've got the i4c 360 degree rotable arm band . The arm band is a game changer for runners , as it is made from durable materials like lycra and neoprene , so it won't smell or wear out after months of use . It also has a reflective band for increased visibility during nighttime runs .
And , the best part , the anchor hub is rotatable by 360 degrees , allowing to easily access your phone and even reply to messages on the go . Next we have the Garmin 4Runner 955 solar .
While a simple Apple watch can track your basic running metrics , although they are getting better with each software update , the Garmin 4Runner 955 solar is a step above for elite runners . It is always on full color display that's easy to read , even in bright sunlight .
Plus , it runs on a solar charged battery , so you don't have to worry about running out of power during long runs . With its accurate GPS and training readiness score , it's the perfect companion for serious runners . Now , if you're not a big fan of hitting the pavement , the Peloton Tread is for you .
The Treadmill offers on-demand classes with motivating instructors , vibrant community , and it's compact and has a large screen for visibility and offers speed and incline wheels for easy adjustment . Well , it might be a bit pricey and you may need the space for it .
But if that money isn't your object and if you're looking for a convenient way to work out from home and enjoy being part of a fitness community , this is a worthwhile investment . So let's dive , delve into the Peloton accessories , or rather the framework .
We have the Peloton bike , which , according to Melissa Connolly , with NaviD Runner , turned to the Peloton bike as a way of challenging herself and improving her fitness . She saw significant improvements in her running pace and overall endurance .
So if you're looking for a way to push yourself and cross-train , the Peloton bike can be a great addition to your training regime , and it doesn't use up as much room as a treadmill . Now , if you're looking for a low impact workout for your recovery days , the Peloton instructor , olivia Amato , suggests taking a low impact ride on the bike .
It gives you a great cardio workout without putting too much stress on the legs . So if you're looking for something fun and dynamic on your recovery days , there are plenty of music focused rides to choose from on the Peloton bike . So recovery runs are an essential part of any training program , but recovery can come in many forms .
Amato recommends replacing a recovery run with a longer recovery ride , and this reduces the impact on your legs while still giving you the benefits of a good cardio workout . Plus , she finds that during a recovery ride to cheese more in tune with her body and is more inclined to slow things down . Now let's talk about the power zone training .
The Peloton offers a power zone rides that focus on achieving specific output levels to improve your strength , endurance and overall performance . These classes are customized to each rider based on their functional threshold power test , and many runners have found that the power zone training has significantly improved their running .
Krista Magna mentioned that she became more powerful in both her cycling and running since incorporating this power zone training in her routine . Now another thing about your overall fitness and running is running is the all core strength . So Peloton tread instructs BexGenerally has a core for runners series that has become a fan favorite .
Gentry recommends incorporating upper body , lower body and total body training sessions into your weekly routine to improve your overall strength and stability as a roller . And did you know that Peloton also offers outdoor running classes ?
And here's a surprising to think that , beyond the bike , the Peloton offers these outdoor running classes that provide audio coach workouts . So many runners can enjoy these classes for interval and speed work , and it's a great way to switch up your running routine and have a personal trainer in your ear to guide you .
So it's not just about the treadmill and the bike and indoor workouts , but also you can take your Peloton coach out with you outside Stretching . Now let's not forget about stretching . We all know how easy it is to skip stretching before and after a run , but it's crucial to ensure that your body is properly prepped and cooled down .
Many Peloton members , like Krista Magna , have started incorporating pre and post run stretches into their routine . It only takes a few extra minutes , but it can make a big difference in injured prevention and overall flexibility .
So , lastly , in terms of this section about the Peloton , we'll talk about the Peloton community , and one of the things that Melissa commonly missed during the pandemic , in the sense of running community , is she used to experience during races .
Okay , so we are out of the pandemic , but what it has taught us is that we can have a physical community , so like , for instance , the park run .
However , having a virtual one , peloton , you have the opportunity to build a virtual community , to build off fellow runners and you can connect with others , share your achievements and find support and motivation to keep pushing yourself . So I know that the pandemic was an awful experience for most of us . It did have a providers with these other opportunities .
Now let's talk about some of the other tech I was going to talk about . So the ASICS Unisex Waste Pack is a must-have for long runs . It has plenty of room for your essentials , like your phone keys and general energy gels , and it's the best part is that it fits securely and comfortably , without bouncing , so you can focus on your run without any distractions .
And lastly , we have the ASICS Men's Road 2N1 shorts . These shorts are designed for marathon runners and offer a bounce free pocket in the back of your phone . They're lightweight , breathable and even sweat resistance , making them perfect for long runs . Plus , they have a lot of reflective details for added safety during the night runs .
Right , let's talk about augmented reality for runners . As I said at the beginning of the show , I would talk about augmented reality and , if you forgive me , I will go right to the beginning of augmented reality and then I'll talk about how it relates to running . Well , let's first get a timeline of augmented reality .
So , from 68 to 74 , the birth of AR concepts , the idea of augmented reality starts to take shape in the beginning or the late 1960s and early 1970s . Computer scientist Ivan Sutherland creates the first head-mounted display system , known as the Sword of Democles , laying the groundwork for immersive computer . Then we go on to the 1990s .
Early experiments computer graphics pioneer Tom Cordwell Coins a term augmented reality in 1990 . During the decade , researchers , developers start experimenting with AR applications , often in industrial and military settings . 2000 AR in entertainment and industry AR technology begins to appear in entertainment and gaming .
In 2009 , ar toolkit , an eye-opening tracking library for AR , is released and making it easy for developers to create AR applications . 2010 the rise of mobile AR . The launch of smartphones , particularly the iPhone and Android devices , marks a significant turning point for AR .
Ai apps like Layla Layar Weakitude introduced the location-based AR experiences to a broader audience . 2013 I remember this the Google Glass . The Google Glass was unveiled , bringing AR to a wearable format . While it faces challenges and is eventually discontinued in its initial form , it sparks interest and discussions about the potential of AR glasses .
Don't forget 2016 Pokemon Go Neonantic release the Pokemon Go , a mobile game that becomes a global phenomenon . It showcases the potential of AR for gaming and location-based experiences , attracting millions of users to explore the real world in search of virtual creators . 2018 , 17 , rather , ar kit and AR core .
Apple and Google introduced AR kit and AR core , respectively , providing developers with tools to create AR apps for iOS and Android devices . This leads to an explosion of AR applications in various fields , from gaming to education . Now you're saying what is that ?
Basically , the actual ARKit and the ARCode is basically specific code which allows you to interact with the hardware and therefore the device becomes an augmented reality device . 2019 , the Microsoft Hololens 2 . The Microsoft releases the Hololens 2 in advanced mixed reality headset .
It incorporates more natural interactions and a wider field of view , targeting both enterprise and consumer applications . In 2020 , the continued growth integration . Arcode continues to integrate with various aspects of our lives . Industries such as healthcare , education , manufacturing adopt AR for training , visualisation and problem solving . Programming .
Developments in AR glasses and smart devices contribute to the technology's widespread adoption . Future-revolving possibilities the future of augmented reality holds exciting possibilities , including advancements in hardware , more sophisticated applications in fields like medicine and design , and the potential for AR to become an integral part of everyday life .
So the timeline provides a snapshot of key milestones of the evolution of augmented reality , showcasing its journey from conceptualisation to widespread application in various domains . So what are the benefits of AR , you might be asking .
So one of the primary benefits of AR is the ability to blend digital and 3D components with an individual's perception of the real world . It can visually change the natural environments or provide additional information to the users . This technology is delivered through devices like smartphones , tablets , glasses and even contact lenses .
In development , ar apps are specially written 3D programs that enable developers to tie animation and contextual digital information to an AR marker in the real world . In the marker is detected , the app executes its code and the layers the correct image or images onto the user's view . So what's the difference between AR and VR ?
You may have heard of virtual reality so well . Vr creates a simulated environment that users are fully immersed in , whereas AR uses the existing real world environment and overlays virtual information on top of it . Vr is experiencing through the headsets that provide sight and sound .
Otherwise , ar devices are less restrictive and can include phone glasses , rejections and heads up displays in cars , while VR places users in the new environment and AR keeps users grounded in the real world with the virtual data overlaid as a visual layer . Now , what are the top uses ?
Before I go into running , so let's dive into some of the top use cases for AR . In retail , consumers can use AR to see how products like furniture will look into their own homes before buying . Entertainment and gaming utilize AR to overlay virtual games in the real world to enable users to animate their faces in unique ways .
On social media , ar can also be used for navigation , overlaying routes over a live view of a row and provide information about local businesses . Measurement tools can be utilized to measure different 3D points in the user's environment . All architects can use AR to visualize building projects .
The Ministry uses AR for training purposes and to display data on vehicle windscreens . Archeology has also benefited from AR , as it aids in its reconstructing sites and allows museum visitors to experience evacuation sites . So what are the benefits to runners ? So , finally , well , one of the stand-up benefits of AR to runners is navigation .
Picture this you're exploring a new trail and , instead of constantly glancing at your phone or map , ar provides real-time heads-up information . Imagine arrows guiding you through the twists and turns , highlighting the key points of interest and ensuring you never miss a turn . It's like having your own personal running guide right in front of your eyes .
Now let's talk about performance enhancement . Augmented reality can introduce virtual paces personalized to match your desired pace and distance goals . These digital avatars run alongside you , motivating you to keep pushing your limits . It's like having your very friendly running buddy pushing you to achieve your personal best every step of the way .
Augmented reality takes the monotony out of your regular running routine by transforming your environment into a virtual playground . Imagine running through a digital obstacle course or participating in a virtual race against other AR runners from around the world . The possibilities are endless and the immersive experiences and a whole new layer of excitement to your workouts .
As runners , we know the importance of proper form . Augmented reality can provide real-time feedback on your running . Biomechanics and visual cues can help you adjust your stride , posture and cadence , reducing the risk of injuries and optimizing your overall performance . It's like having your personal running coach , analyzing your form every step of the way .
And for those days when you want to escape the familiar routes , ar can transform you to virtual landscapes , turning your regular run into an adventure , whether it's run through the streets of Tokyo or a trail in the Amazon rainforest , augmented reality opens up the world of possibilities , making each run a unique and captivating experience .
Running is often a solo activity , but that doesn't mean that you have to run alone . Augmented reality introduces a social element to your runs . Connect your friends in the digital realm , challenge each other to virtual races or simply enjoy a shared AR experience .
It brings a sense of community to the solitary act of running , fostering connections , camaraderie , among runners worldwide . So , like any technology , augmented reality isn't without its challenges . Issues like battery life , device compatibility , potential distractions , need to be considered .
However , as the technology continues to evolve and become available , I will give you a link in the show notes as to one of the devices that is available in the market , but I will . As you can see , that is something that , in the future , we , as casual runners , can tap into to help improve our performance and enjoy our aspect of running .
So it is , the future does look promising for runners who can embrace this groundbreaking innovation .
¶ Future of AR in Running
Now we've come to the end of this week's episode . It's clear that augmented reality is transforming the way we experience running , and it will do in the future definitely . From navigation assistance , virtual paces to immersive workouts and social connectivity , ar is reshaping the very fabric of our runs .
Embrace the future , follow runners and consider how augmented reality can enhance your journey , one step at a time . We also look some other tech for runners . This is something that I'll be coming back to every so often , so as the technology landscape for the fitness industry changes month by month . We are just getting to grips with AI .
Maybe in coming 12 months there may be something else , or their seismic shifts and technology take a little longer to Peter into the fitness industry . Anyway , I will give you anything that comes along and I feel you may need to know about in terms of technology .
I will certainly let you know so , but anyway , thanks very much for listening and , anyway , hope you have some happy running going into 2024 .