Method and apparatus for high speed, low energy running / training

Abstract

Described herein is a method for training a runner to reduce variability in the runner's step length while the runner is running, the method comprising the steps of: placing at least three markers, wherein a first marker is approximately a first distance from a second marker, the second marker is approximately a first distance from a third marker, and the second marker is approximately a first distance from the first marker and the third marker; and instructing the runner to run and to step on or near the markers while running.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 371,654, filed August 17, 2022, and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 366,794, filed August 8, 2023. [Background technology]

[0002] The present teachings are directed to methods for improving running performance. More specifically, the present teachings are directed to the use of sensor arrays including pressure sensors and accelerometers, running physics models for analyzing stride-by-stride and step-by-step metrics, and training methods for using the metrics to improve a runner's performance.

[0003] Running as a sport and form of exercise continues to grow in popularity due to the low barrier to entry for beginner runners. Despite this low barrier, it can take a long time for runners to master proper running form and technique, and even professional runners struggle to find ways to improve their performance. Advances in wearable technology have led to the development of many devices to instruct beginner or experienced runners on how to modify their performance to run more efficiently, reduce the risk of injury, lessen fatigue, and increase speed, among other improvements.

[0004] While many devices have helped improve runners' performance, there are still many areas in which current technology does not provide a means to address specific questions regarding the mechanics of runner speed. Running performance is typically measured by maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), lactate threshold, and running economy. All of these parameters are typically measured in a laboratory environment on a treadmill. The present disclosure allows runners to collect data as they run indoors or outdoors, and measures running performance based on momentum changes throughout the run, energy utilized per foot (E / ft), and energy utilized per second (E / s). Summary of the Invention

[0005] This Summary is provided to introduce some concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key elements or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006] The present teachings describe a method for training runners to reduce energy expenditure and increase speed using a mobile monitoring device and a running physics model.

[0007] The mobile monitoring device allows runners to record relevant metrics anywhere they wish to train, without being limited to a treadmill. The mobile monitoring device includes a series of pressure sensors attached to a shoe insert that can be placed under the insole of a standard running shoe. These pressure sensors provide information about the order and relative force of different parts of a runner's foot contacting the ground and can be used to indicate whether the runner is overstriding. In addition, the pressure sensors provide information about the time the runner's foot contacts the ground, allowing for the timing of individual steps or strides. This information is processed within a housing that can be attached to the outside of the runner's shoe. Within the housing is a printed circuit board (PCB) containing an accelerometer and a processor, connected to the pressure sensors via electrical leads. The accelerometer measures gravitational acceleration in the x, y, and z directions of the runner's foot throughout a given run. When processed with the pressure sensor data, the accelerometer data allows the energy expended by the runner during a given step to be calculated through a running physics model.

[0008] The running physics model described in the present teachings can use information collected by a mobile monitoring device to calculate the energy expended by a runner during any given step of a run. Using two equations of motion, along with standard Newtonian equations for force and energy, the physics model calculates the energy of a step. These equations are: Force = Runner's Weight * Acceleration; Energy = Work = Force * Distance; Acceleration = ΔVelocity / ΔTime; and ΔDisplacement = (Initial Velocity + Final Velocity) * ΔTime / 2. From these equations, the following equation for energy is derived: Kinetic Energy = Work = 0.5 * Weight * (Final Velocity^2 - Initial Velocity^2). This equation depends on the runner's weight and the difference in torso velocity between the initial velocity at which the foot lands and the final velocity at which the foot leaves the ground. The physics model calculates these velocities. Because no change in velocity can occur between the time the first foot hits the ground and the time the second foot hits the ground when the runner is airborne, the runner's initial velocity is the same as the runner's final velocity when the next foot hits the ground. Therefore, the final velocity of step N is the initial velocity of step N+1. This relationship persists for the entire run. Because the runner starts from rest, the initial velocity in step 1 is effectively zero.

[0009] The training method described in the present teachings can train runners to expend less energy while running at any speed, especially while increasing speed. Using the running physics model described in the present teachings, the training method recognizes that many runners have large variations in speed between steps, alternating between acceleration and deceleration. This variation often forces runners to accelerate faster than would be necessary with a more consistent, smaller deceleration. Variation in step acceleration has been found to be directly correlated with variation in step length. The training method improves this consistency by training the runner's muscle memory to maintain consistent step lengths by continually running a marked distance or other consistent distance metric in increments equivalent to the runner's determined optimal step distance. Because variation in acceleration and step length are directly correlated, by improving the consistency of step length, the runner reduces the variability in momentum change. Having a consistent step length reduces the amount of energy the runner expends at any given speed. Once a consistent step length is achieved, the training method adds a metronome or other consistent timing feedback of the cadence (steps / minute) that the runner is attempting to achieve, thereby training the runner to step at a consistent step length and duration to achieve the desired velocity, while simultaneously reducing energy expenditure even further.

[0010] Still further benefits and advantages of the present subject matter will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present subject matter pertains upon reading and understanding the following detailed specification. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] The disclosure may take physical form in specific parts and arrangements of parts, aspects of which are described in detail herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof.

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a monitoring device as disclosed by the present teachings. [Figure 2] 1 shows the ground contact waveform and stride components of a runner's stride. [Figure 2A] This shows the breakdown of each step during running from a physics perspective. [Figure 3] This shows the Vf-Vi value or momentum change for each step in the 3200m run. [Figure 4] 1 shows values ​​measured and calculated using a monitoring system of the present teachings and a physical model of the present teachings. [Figure 5] Positive momentum change (+Vf-Vi) values ​​for a 400m lap in a collegiate runner are shown. [Figure 6] This shows the actual energy expended for the same 400m lap as Figure 5 for a collegiate runner. [Figure 7] Shows the effect of momentum change on the energy consumed at a specific velocity (initial velocity). [Figure 8] Figure 6 shows the change in momentum when the positive (Vf-Vi) value is reduced by 30%. [Figure 9] Figure 8 shows the effect that a 30% reduction in exercise volume change can have on energy expenditure. [Figure 10] This shows the variation in step length and step time of university runners for the 3200m race. [Figure 11] Step velocity and step length of a collegiate runner during a 400m lap are shown. [Figure 12] 1 shows an indoor running track used in the training methods disclosed within the present teachings. [Figure 13] Using the track shown in Figure 12, step times and step lengths are shown for an untrained runner who is not using marks as a guide for step length. [Figure 14] The energy expended by the same runner for the run shown in Figure 13 is shown. [Figure 15]12 shows step time and step length for the runner of FIG. 11 while running at a constant step length using the 3-foot guide marks shown in FIG. [Figure 16] Figure 15 shows the energy expended by the same runner for the run shown. [Figure 17] Data from laps 5 and 7 from a speed profile run for Runner 2, a trained collegiate runner, are shown. [Figure 18] The step length distribution for runner 2's speed profile run on lap 7 is shown. [Figure 19] The step time and step length for the seventh lap of the speed profile run for Runner 2 are shown. [Figure 20] Runner 2's speed profile shows the final step velocity and step length for the seventh lap of the run. [Figure 21] Runner 2's velocity profile shows momentum change (Vf-Vi) versus step number for lap 7. [Figure 22] 1 shows energy expended versus number of steps for lap 7 of Runner 2's speed profile run. [Figure 23] Figure 1 shows power used versus number of steps for lap 7 of Runner 2's speed profile run. [Figure 24] A portion of a 400m track is shown with step markers in lanes 7 and 8 for step lengths of 6.0 and 6.5 feet. Lane 7 was used by runners 2 and 3. [Figure 25] FIG. 24 shows step time and step length versus step number for Runner 2's interval step training (IST) runs on the marked track shown in FIG. 23. [Figure 26] 24 shows pivot velocity Vf and step length versus step number for Runner 2's interval step training (IST) runs on the marked track shown in FIG. 23. [Figure 27]FIG. 24 shows the change in momentum (Vf-Vi) versus step count for Runner 2's interval step training (IST) run on the marked track shown in FIG. 23. [Figure 28] FIG. 23 shows the energy expended versus the number of steps during interval step training (IST) runs by Runner 2 on the marked track. [Figure 29] Figure 24 shows the step length distribution of interval step training (IST) runs by Runner 2 on the marked track shown in Figure 23. [Figure 30] A table comparing Runner 2's speed profile data for laps 5 and 7 with data from an Interval Step Training (IST) run on the marked track shown in Figure 23 is shown. [Figure 31] Data from laps 5 and 7 from a speed profile run for Runner 3, a trained collegiate runner, are shown. [Figure 32] The step length distribution for the seventh lap of Runner 3's speed profile run is shown. [Figure 33] The step time and step length for the seventh lap of the speed profile run of Runner 3 are shown. [Figure 34] The final step velocity and step length for the seventh lap of the speed profile run for Runner 3 are shown. [Figure 35] Figure 1 shows the change in momentum (Vf-Vi) versus step number for lap 7 of the velocity profile run for Runner 3. [Figure 36] 1 shows energy expended versus number of steps for lap 7 of Runner 3's speed profile run. [Figure 37] FIG. 24 shows step time and step length versus step number for Runner 3's interval step training (IST) runs on the marked track shown in FIG. 23. [Figure 38] 24 shows pivot velocity Vf and step length versus step number for Runner 3's interval step training (IST) runs on the marked track shown in FIG. 23. [Figure 39] FIG. 24 shows the change in momentum (Vf-Vi) versus step number for Runner 3's interval step training (IST) run on the marked track shown in FIG. 23. [Figure 40] FIG. 24 shows energy expended versus number of steps for Runner 3's interval step training (IST) run on the marked track shown in FIG. 23. [Figure 41] 24 shows the step length distribution of Runner 3's interval step training (IST) runs on the marked track shown in FIG. 23. [Figure 42] A table comparing Runner 3's speed profile data for laps 5 and 7 with data from an Interval Step Training (IST) run on the marked track shown in Figure 23 is shown. [Figure 43] 1 illustrates a light strip that can be used to train runners in accordance with the present teachings. [Figure 44] 1 illustrates another embodiment of a light strip used to train runners in accordance with the present teachings, specifically an individually addressable LED strip light programmed with Arduino for use with interval step training (IST). [Figure 45] Shown are graphs of running speed versus oxygen uptake for two athletes. [Figure 46] 1 shows a conventional chemical transport model. [Figure 47] A comparison of step speed and energy expenditure per second between two runners is shown. [Figure 48] A physical driving model is shown. [Figure 49] Speed ​​trial running data for momentum change is shown. [Figure 50] Indicates tipping points in speed trial runs. [Figure 51]Shown are what-if scenarios for Runner 1 and Runner 2 when a positive momentum change is brought below the pivot point. [Figure 52] The standard deviation of momentum change for the velocity profile runs of Runner 1 and Runner 2 is shown. [Figure 53] Figure 1 shows the energy reduction for Runner 4 when running on a treadmill with a metronome compared to running on a treadmill without a metronome. [Figure 54] A comparison of the change in momentum with and without a metronome is shown. [Figure 55] A comparison of energy with and without a metronome is shown. [Figure 56] A comparison of step lengths with and without a metronome is shown. [Figure 57] 1 shows a graph of step length and step time without a metronome. [Figure 58] 1 shows a graph of step length and step time with a metronome. [Figure 59] Shows the step time, step length, and step velocity of Runner 2 during freestyle running to check muscle memory. [Figure 60] 1 shows the step time, step length, and step velocity of Runner 2 at IST after freestyle running. [Figure 61] The coefficient of variation % of step time and step length for Runner 2's speed profile 5th lap, speed profile 7th lap, freestyle running, and IST running is shown. [Figure 62] The step length distribution of Runner 2 during freestyle running and IST running is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Referring now to the drawings, it will be understood that the illustrations are for purposes of illustrating aspects of the present disclosure only and are not intended to limit the same, and like reference numerals refer to like components.

[0014] The present teachings describe a training method to reduce the energy a runner expends while running and simultaneously increase their average running speed, utilizing monitoring systems and devices in conjunction with a physical model that describes an individual's running style.

[0015] FIG. 1 shows a monitoring device comprising a shoe insert 10 that can be placed under the insole of a runner's running shoe and an electronics housing 18 that can be fastened to the runner's running shoe. The shoe insert 10 can be worn in one or both shoes. The shoe insert 10 comprises a pressure sensor 12 located on the medial front of the shoe insert 10, a pressure sensor 14 located on the lateral front of the shoe insert 10, a pressure sensor 16 located on the heel of the shoe insert 10, conductive material 20 wired to the lateral midfoot of the shoe insert 10, and a conductor 22 connected to the conductive material 20 at the lateral midfoot of the shoe insert 10. The shoe insert 10 is connected to the electronics housing 18 via wire 24. The electronics housing 18 comprises an accelerometer 38 and a processor 40 that processes data from the pressure sensor and the accelerometer. The accelerometer measures acceleration, orientation, and rotational speed, but only acceleration is used to determine a step metric. The processed data can be uploaded to a computer or cloud-based platform that analyzes the data and inputs it into a physical running model. In one aspect of the present teachings, the accelerometer 38 is a nine-axis device that can measure the time between strides. Thus, two types of data are collected by the system as a function of time: voltage from the pressure sensor and gravitational acceleration (G-force) from the accelerometer. The electronics housing 18 can be used alone. If a ground waveform is not required, the sensor array 10 and connecting wire 24 can be omitted.

[0016] Figure 2 shows the footstrike waveform of a runner's stride. Based on the relative force the runner applies to the sensor, stride components can be determined. The footstrike waveform also indicates whether the runner is a heel striker or a forefoot striker. A collegiate long-distance runner used the eSens monitoring device to discover that he was a heel striker. After training to change his footstrike pattern to a forefoot striker, his running performance improved significantly.

[0017] FIG. 2A shows a runner at four different points during a running step. In the physical model described in this disclosure, the focus of motion is the runner's torso and is in two phases of the running step: the pivot phase and the air phase. In the pivot phase, as the first foot lands (26), the torso moves at an initial pivot velocity V, defined for the entire step shown in FIG. i After this step, the runner launches the foot into the air phase (28), and the trunk velocity at this launch (28) is equal to the final pivot velocity V for the entire step shown in Figure 2. f Once the runner is in the air (30), he cannot generate any velocity until the next pivot phase, which begins when the second foot lands (32).

[0018] Pressure sensor data and accelerometer g-force data are collected at a rate of 200 Hz to provide the runner's strike and launch times along with the length of each stride to the physical running model. The physical running model then converts this data into all of the runner's metrics listed in Figure 4. Step strike time is defined as the time the foot first touches the ground, and step launch time is defined as the time the foot leaves the ground. Two accelerometers can be used simultaneously, one on each foot, to have a common timeline and measure step metrics.

[0019] During the air phase (30), the fuselage velocity is constant and the final pivot velocity V f When the runner lands on the second foot (32), the initial pivot velocity for the next step, V i is V in Figure 2A f The link between steps (V i is the V of the previous step f (equal to V in Figure 2) is a relationship that continues throughout the length of the run. i is V in Figure 2 f If ρ is less than ρ, there is an acceleration of the runner and energy is consumed. The energy consumed by this acceleration can then be calculated by the following equation: Energy = Runner's Weight * (Vf^2-Vi^2) / 2

[0020] Figure 3 shows the V across the entire 3200m completed by Runner 1, a university student runner. f -V i The value of V f -V i can be used as a gradual measure of the runner's momentum change. As shown in Figure 3, V f -V i The value of V varies over a relatively wide range for each step in the 3200m run. Nearly 50% of the steps in Figure 3 are positive V f -V i The remaining approximately 50% of the steps in Figure 3 have a negative V f -V i value, thus indicating that the runner is decelerating. Energy is consumed only during acceleration and is directly related to the value of (Vf^2-Vi^2) / 2. Because the momentum-energy relationship is different for Vf and Vi, a small change in momentum can cause a large change in energy consumption, as shown in Figure 7. Therefore, if we can reduce the change in momentum of a runner, we can dramatically reduce the energy consumption by that runner.

[0021] Figure 5 shows the positive momentum change for the seventh lap (400m) of a university runner's speed profile run. f -V i Since the value of +(Vf-Vi) varies considerably between acceleration steps, the energy expenditure associated with these steps is expected to be large, as shown in Figure 6. If the momentum change can be reduced by decreasing the value of +(Vf-Vi), the energy expenditure will be less. Figure 8 shows that V f -V i Figure 9 shows a hypothetical version of the run conducted in Figure 5, where the range of V is reduced by 30%. f -V i This results in a 30% reduction in energy due to the consistent V. Despite this reduction in energy, the runner's velocity remains the same. Figure 7 shows the V throughout the run. f -V i A smaller range of values ​​indicates that a runner can run at the same speed using less energy.

[0022] Figure 10 shows the variability in step length and step time of a collegiate runner over a 3200m run. Figure 10 shows that the collegiate runner has a wide range in step length compared to step time. Figure 11 shows the step velocity and step length of a collegiate runner while running a 400m lap. Figure 11 shows that step length and step velocity are closely correlated, so controlling for step length variability can improve V f -V i It should be possible to reduce the size of

[0023] FIG. 12 shows a 50+ foot space used as a track for the training method disclosed in the present teachings. As an example of the training method, a runner with no training or previous running experience ran four times on this track while wearing a monitoring system disclosed in the present teachings. The average energy per foot for the four runs was 7.67 joules / ft. FIG. 13 shows the step time and step length for the first of the four runs, indicating greater variability in step length than in step time. FIG. 14 shows the energy profile of this runner's first run from FIG. 13.

[0024] FIG. 12 further shows markers 36 spaced a consistent distance apart, which is comfortable for the runner. The markers indicate where the runner should place their feet when running at a consistent step length. Step length can be indicated by physical markers or by sounds, vibrations, or any other sensory stimuli. Following the training method disclosed in the present teachings, runners ran on a track and practiced landing on solid black marks 36 with each step to train muscle memory for building consistent step length. FIG. 15 shows that the runner's step length became even more consistent while running with the markers. FIG. 16 shows that energy expenditure during running with the markers decreased by 82%. To run faster with less energy, training with the markers can be performed by instructing the runner to land on the marks with a greater cadence using a metronome or similar device. This allows the runner to run faster with less energy.

[0025] To further verify the effectiveness of this training method, two university long-distance runners, Runner 2 and Runner 3, conducted speed profile runs. The runners completed eight laps of a 400m outdoor track. Over the first four laps, the runners gradually increased their speed, reaching tempo pace by lap five. For lap six, the target speed was 10% faster than tempo pace, and for lap seven, the target speed was 25% faster than tempo pace. The final lap was run at a slower pace as a recovery lap.

[0026] Figure 17 provides a summary of speed profile metrics for Runner 2's tempo-pace and fastest-pace laps (laps 5 and 7, respectively). Figure 18 shows the step length (Step L) distribution for Runner 2's fastest lap. Based on this information, the runner's coach was able to determine that a step length of 6 feet was optimal for Runner 2. Following this training method, markers were set at 6-foot intervals on the same outdoor track for a short start-up distance of 117 meters. After several practice runs using the markers, the runner ran 117 meters wearing the monitoring device taught in this disclosure, then ran the remaining 400 meters at a recovery pace without markers. Runner 2 continued with three more training runs using the same pattern. This training method was named Interval Step Training (IST), and the coach confirmed that IST was a sufficient fit for athletes' regular interval training. Figure 24 shows an outdoor track with markers spaced 6.0 feet apart on the lane lines between lanes 6 and 7.

[0027] Figure 19 shows the step time and step length for lap 7 of Runner 2's speed profile run. Step length varies from step to step, while step time is more constant throughout the lap. Figure 20 shows the change in step speed with change in step length.

[0028] Figure 21 shows the V for the seventh lap of the speed profile run of Runner 2. f -V i Figure 22 shows the energy expenditure for the same 7th lap, and Figure 23 shows the power used for lap 7, calculated by dividing the energy in the acceleration step by the pivot time for that step. On this lap, an average of 764 watts of power was used, for a total lap use of 17,254 joules of energy, with an average speed of 19.84 ft / sec.

[0029] Figure 25 shows the step time and step length for the IST run using markers by Runner 2. The step length shows relatively small fluctuations compared to the step length for the seventh lap of the velocity profile run seen in Figure 19. This also indicates the momentum change (V) for the IST run shown in Figure 27. f -V i ) and the energy consumption shown in FIG.

[0030] Figure 26 shows the step length and final velocity for the IST run using the marker by Runner 2. Similar to the step length, the variation in the final step velocity is also smaller compared to Figure 20.

[0031] Figure 27 shows the V f -V i Figure 28 shows the energy consumed by Runner 2 during the IST run using the marker.

[0032] Figure 29 shows the step length distribution for Runner 2, who completed the run after using the IST method. Figure 28 shows a constant step length of 6 feet (48 out of 64 steps).

[0033] Figure 30 summarizes the speed profile metrics for Runner 2's tempo-pace and fastest-pace laps (laps 5 and 7, respectively) compared to the IST run using step markers. The key comparison is the energy used in lap 5 (10,334 joules) and the predicted energy used in a 400-m IST run at the speed of lap 7 (8,267 joules). 8,267 joules is 26% lower than the 10,334 joules used in the profile run for lap 5. Therefore, by utilizing the IST method, Runner 2 is able to run faster using lower energy, and it is likely that the speed of lap 7 will become Runner 2's new tempo pace.

[0034] Figure 31 provides a summary of speed profile metrics for Runner 3's tempo-pace and fastest-pace laps (laps 5 and 7, respectively). Figure 32 shows the step length (Step L) distribution for Runner 3's fastest lap. Based on this information, the runner's coach was able to determine a step length of 6 ft for the short start-up distance of 117 m. After several practice runs using markers, the runner ran 117 m wearing the monitoring device taught in this disclosure, then ran the remaining 400 m at recovery pace without markers. Runner 2 continued three more training runs using the same pattern. This training method was named Interval Step Training (IST), and the coach confirmed that IST was a good fit with the athlete's regular interval training. Figure 24 shows an outdoor track with markers spaced 6.0 ft apart on the lane lines between lanes 6 and 7.

[0035] Figure 33 shows the step time and step length for lap 7 of Runner 3's speed profile run. While step length varies from step to step, step time is more constant throughout the lap. Figure 34 shows the change in step speed with change in step length.

[0036] Figure 35 shows the V for the seventh lap of the speed profile run for Runner 3.f -V i Figure 36 shows the energy expenditure for the same lap, lap 7. On this lap, energy was expended at an average rate of 236 joules per second, for a total lap expenditure of 17,254 joules, at an average speed of 18.67 ft / sec.

[0037] Figure 37 shows the step time and step length for IST run 2 using markers by Runner 3. The step length shows relatively small fluctuations compared to the step length for lap 7 of the velocity profile run seen in Figure 33. This also indicates the momentum change (V) for the IST run shown in Figure 39. f -V i ) and the energy consumption shown in FIG.

[0038] Figure 38 shows the step length and final velocity for the IST run using the marker by Runner 3. Similar to the step length, the variation in the final step velocity is also smaller compared to Figure 34.

[0039] Figure 39 is V f -V i Figure 39 shows the energy expenditure for IST running using markers by Runner 3.

[0040] Figure 41 shows the step length distribution for Runner 3, who completed the run after using the IST method. Figure 41 shows a constant step length of 6 ft (37 out of 64 steps).

[0041] Figure 42 summarizes the speed profile metrics for Runner 3's tempo-pace and fastest-pace laps (laps 5 and 7, respectively) compared to the IST run using step markers. The key comparison is the energy used in lap 5 (15,081 joules) and the predicted energy used in a 400-m IST run at 99.5% of the speed in lap 7 (11,708 joules). 11,708 joules is 22% lower than the 15,081 joules used in the profile run for lap 5. Therefore, by utilizing the IST method, Runner 3 is able to run faster using lower energy, and it is likely that the speed in lap 7 will become Runner 3's new tempo pace.

[0042] By using the training methods disclosed herein, runners can run longer distances at faster speeds using less energy. For example, they can run 25% faster using 25% less energy. The monitoring system and physics model disclosed herein determine the force, energy, and power expended per step, allowing runners to modify their speed mechanics to run more efficiently. The monitoring system disclosed herein can provide runners with detailed information about their footstrike pattern, ultimately helping them run faster by reducing the chance of injury and training them to be forefoot runners as opposed to heelstrike runners. Coaches can also use the training methods, monitoring systems, and physics models disclosed herein to analyze runners' results and analyses and provide guidance to runners without physically meeting them. Recreational runners can also access these teachings without the costs typically associated with such services.

[0043] FIG. 43 shows a light strip 42 with multiple lights 44. The lights 44 may be light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The light strip 42 may comprise a strip of light. Individual or groups of lights 44 may be illuminated along the light strip 42. The light strip 42 may be controlled by a microprocessor 46, such as an Arduino microcontroller. The microprocessor 46 may be programmed using a conventional computer and open source code. The light strip 42 and microcontroller 46 may be powered by an internal or external power source 48.

[0044] A light strip 42 can be used instead of a physical marker to indicate where a runner should take a particular step length. To do so, a microprocessor 46 can be programmed to illuminate one or more lights 44 on the light strip 42 to correspond to the location of the marker 36. The light strip 42 is then placed along a path that the runner will use to practice running the previously determined step length. For example, the light strip 42 can be placed between two lanes of a track and extend along the length of the track. The runner can then run the desired step length by stepping near the illuminated lights 44 on the light strip 42 while running. By consistently running the desired step length, the step length becomes embedded in the runner's muscle memory. Once embedded, the runner will use less energy and run faster.

[0045] To allow multiple runners to use the same step-length marker system for interval step training, eSens developed a system using light strips 42 and a microprocessor 46—more specifically, a system of individually addressable LED strips combined with an Arduino UNO R3 microcontroller board. Connecting multiple waterproof, 5-meter-long individually addressable LED strips end-to-end provides markers that light up at any desired interval for an IST run. The LED strips can be powered by a nearby outlet, available at most tracks, or by a portable battery for timing devices. The number of LED strips connected varies depending on the distance of the training run. Using an Arduino microcontroller, the runner sets the light interval to match the desired step length. For this purpose, Adafruit's open-source code was modified and uploaded to the Arduino. The runner sets the desired light interval via phone or laptop. As shown in Figure 44, the LEDs light up at intervals that match the entered step length. The runner then uses the bright LEDs as markers for interval step training. In addition to step length, the number of steps taken by the runner is also part of the present teachings. In one aspect of the present teachings, the runner takes at least 10 steps during a test trial to set up the markers to ascertain information. It is understood that the number of steps may be between 10 and 80, between 20 and 70, between 30 and 60, and between 40 and 50. It is also understood that any number of steps greater than 80 may be used as well.

[0046] Research has shown that one of the strongest predictors of endurance running performance over a wide range of distances is a runner's vVO2max, the minimum speed at which their oxygen uptake peaks. The graph in Figure 45 shows oxygen uptake as a function of running speed for two runners. Each runner ran the same range of speeds on the treadmill, and at each speed, Athlete A used less oxygen and therefore was more efficient at running. However, Athlete B's higher vVO2max led to the conclusion that he was the better runner. Most college coaches are aware of this vVO2max theory but do not have the capability to measure their runners' vVO2max. However, because interval training (IT) has been shown to improve vVO2max, coaches tend to incorporate some form of IT into each of their runners' training plans.

[0047] If the conclusions drawn in Figure 45 are valid, then a runner's oxygen consumption is directly determined by their running speed. Because oxygen consumption determines energy production through a series of known chemical reactions, energy expenditure is also directly linked to the runner's speed. Therefore, the faster a runner runs, the greater their energy expenditure should be. These results suggest that the Chemistry Run Model shown in Figure 46 is a closed-loop system that links a runner's speed production to oxygen consumption / oxygen consumption to energy expenditure / energy expenditure to speed production. If the Chemistry Run Model is correct, athletes A and B would be predicted to have the same oxygen consumption at their running speeds. Exercise physiologists believe these differences are likely explained by subtle physiological differences between runners.

[0048] Figure 47 shows the results of track lap runs for college student runners 1 and 2. These runners were teammates, ran speed profile runs on the same track on the same day, and received essentially the same training. Runner 2 ran 2.5% slower than Runner 1 on his fastest lap (lap 7), but consumed 46% more energy. These results were independently reviewed by two professors of exercise physiology and one former college runner. Both concluded that it was highly unlikely that physiological differences between Runners 1 and 2 could explain the difference in energy expenditure.

[0049] The physics-based running model described in paragraphs 0016-0020 and shown in Figure 48 can easily explain the results shown in Figure 47. While both the physics-based and chemical-based running models are closed-loop, including momentum change in the physics-based running model and reversing the flow direction makes a significant difference. Figure 49 shows the positive momentum change on lap 7 for Runners 1 and 2. While the plots appear somewhat similar, they are significantly different from a performance perspective. The average momentum gain (+(Vf-Vi)) for Runner 2 is 1.37 ft / s, while for Runner 1 it is only 0.95 ft / s, a 44% difference, similar to the 46% difference in lap energy. When step percentage and energy are plotted as a function of the distribution of positive momentum change (Figure 50), the differences between the runners become even more apparent. The tipping point, defined as the maximum positive momentum change where the step percentage is greater than the energy percentage, is 1.50 for Runner 2 and 1.00 for Runner 1.

[0050] The data from the physics-based running model clearly supports the fact that Runner 1 is running 2.5% faster than Runner 2, yet expending significantly less energy than Runner 2 by taking into account the momentum changes of each runner over the lap.

[0051] Additionally, the "what if" scenarios shown in Figure 51 for each runner indicate that each runner could significantly reduce their energy expenditure by running each step below the tipping point, thus resulting in a faster overall lap.

[0052] Another interesting aspect of these runs is the similarity in the distribution of momentum change, i.e., (Vf-Vi). As shown in Figure 52, the standard deviation for Runner 1 at 1.2304 is significantly smaller than the standard deviation for Runner 2 at 1.4552, but the actual + / -3 sigma distributions are quite similar, and both correlate well with the theoretical values ​​for the standard distribution. This result has been observed for other runners as well, leading to the idea that most, if not all, runners may naturally run with momentum constantly changing.

[0053] As shown in Figures 53-58, a treadmill can be used for interval step training (IST). Runner 4's fastest speed profile lap was lap 7, with an average speed of 17.57 ft / s. The step length distribution for this speed profile lap indicated that a step length of 6.0 ft was ideal for IST purposes. Therefore, the treadmill speed was set to 17.6 ft / s, and the runner's target cadence was 176 steps / min. At this speed and cadence, the runner's step length would be 6 feet. To ensure the target cadence, a metronome was used to provide an auditory cue as to when the runner's foot should land on the treadmill for each step. After a 30-second IST run at 17.6 ft / s with the metronome, the treadmill speed was reduced to a recovery speed of 12 ft / s, and the metronome was muted for 90 seconds, at which point the next IST run began. Five IST runs were completed using this procedure. IST runs 3, 4, and 5 were completed with the metronome on, while IST runs 1 and 2 were completed with the metronome off. IST may also be performed on a treadmill with some incline, or on an outdoor cross-country trail with an uphill or downhill gradient. In either case, step length can be adjusted accordingly to provide optimal interval step training.

[0054] Figure 53 shows that IST treadmill runs completed with a metronome on to assist runners in controlling their cadence and step length resulted in an 18-37% reduction in energy compared to runs completed with the metronome off. Furthermore, by comparing momentum change (Figure 54), step energy (Figure 55), step length distribution (Figure 56), and step time vs. step length (Figures 57 and 58), it can be concluded that metronome-assisted treadmill running is feasible for IST purposes, allowing runners to run faster and at a faster speed for longer periods of time by reducing energy expenditure.

[0055] Runner 2 performed IST twice a week for four weeks. Runner 2's muscle memory was tested at the end of the fourth week by freestyle running. Freestyle running was performed in the same manner as the IST run, but instead of running on marks, Runner 2 moved to an unmarked track lane and ran a 117-m straight section at his normal race pace (18.54 ft / s). As with the IST run, the runner ran the remainder of the 400-m track at recovery pace. The runner ran two freestyle runs (without marks) and then two IST runs (with marks). The runner demonstrated consistent step length muscle memory in the freestyle run, as shown in Figure 59. Comparing this freestyle run with the IST run shown in Figure 60, we can conclude that Runner 2 acquired some consistent step length muscle memory, which mimics the IST run performed by stepping on marks. Figure 61 shows the coefficient of variation (% coefficient of variation) for Runner 2's step time and step length for the 5th and 7th laps of the speed profile, freestyle running, and IST running. After IST, step length variation significantly decreased to 1.51% from 7th lap (5.90%) and 5th lap (4.70%) of the profile running. For IST running on the mark, the coefficient of variation was even lower (0.81%). Therefore, Runner 2 has room for further improvement in step length variation. Furthermore, comparing Runner 2's step length distributions for freestyle and IST running in Figure 62, a consistent step length muscle memory is observed. Runner 4 also demonstrated a similar consistent step length muscle memory after 4 weeks of IST running.

[0056] Clause 1 - A method for training a runner to reduce energy expenditure, comprising the steps of: placing at least three markers, a first marker being a first distance from a second marker, and the second marker being a second distance from a third marker; and instructing the runner to run and step on or near the markers while running.

[0057] Clause 2 - The method of clause 1, wherein the first distance and the second distance are approximately a step length of the runner.

[0058] Clause 3 - The method of clause 1 or 2, wherein the distance between each successive marker is approximately the runner's step length, and the runner minimizes the change in step length between steps.

[0059] Clause 4 - The method according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the time between steps and / or the length between steps of the runner are determined.

[0060] Clause 5 - A method according to any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the markers are at least a first indicator, a second indicator, and a third indicator, wherein the first indicator indicates that the runner should take a shorter step, the second indicator indicates that the runner should take a longer step, and the third indicator indicates the correct step, and the indicators can emit sound, light, or vibration.

[0061] Clause 6 - The method of any one of clauses 1 to 5, further comprising the steps of emitting a sound, light, and / or vibration corresponding to the moment when the runner should step on or near the marker, and emitting a sound, light, and / or vibration when the runner lands.

[0062] Clause 7 - The method of clause 6, further comprising the step of emitting at least a first sound, light, and / or vibration, a second sound, light, and / or vibration, and a third sound, light, and / or vibration, wherein the first sound, light, and / or vibration specifies that the runner should take a shorter step, the second sound, light, and / or vibration specifies that the runner should take a longer step, and the third sound, light, and / or vibration specifies the correct step.

[0063] Clause 8 - The method according to any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the correct step is a step that occurs within the correct step length and at the correct time.

[0064] Clause 9 - A method for training a runner to reduce energy expenditure, the method comprising: providing a monitoring device comprising at least one accelerometer, at least one power source, at least one processor, and at least one electrical conductor, the at least one electrical conductor connected to the accelerometer, the at least one processor receiving data from the at least one accelerometer; and processing the data from the accelerometer to determine at least one of step length, step time, step velocity, momentum change between steps, and velocity change between steps.

[0065] Clause 10 - The method of clause 9, further comprising determining whether the runner accelerated or decelerated between steps by comparing the change in velocity between steps with the initial pivot velocity and the final pivot velocity.

[0066] Clause 11 - The method of clause 9 or 10, further comprising the step of positioning at least three markers, wherein a first marker is a first distance from a second marker and the second marker is a second distance from a third marker.

[0067] Clause 12 - The method of any one of clauses 9 to 11, further comprising the step of emitting a sound, light, and / or vibration corresponding to the time the runner should step on or near the marker, wherein the step of emitting the sound, light, and / or vibration further comprises the step of emitting at least a first sound, light, and / or vibration, a second sound, light, and / or vibration, and a third sound, light, and / or vibration, wherein the first sound, light, and / or vibration specifies that the runner should take a shorter step, the second sound, light, and / or vibration specifies that the runner should take a longer step, and the third sound, light, and / or vibration specifies the correct step.

[0068] Article 13 - A method according to any one of Articles 9 to 12, in which the number of markers corresponds to at least 10 steps by the Runner.

[0069] Clause 14 - A method according to any one of clauses 9 to 13, wherein the monitoring device further comprises a shoe attachment, and at least one of the previous running sessions is a speed profile run, the speed profile run including determining at least one of step length, step time, step velocity, momentum change between steps, and velocity change between steps while the runner is running at least a first velocity, and determining at least one of step length, step time, step velocity, momentum change between steps, and velocity change between steps while the runner is running at least a second velocity, wherein the at least second velocity is at least faster than the first velocity.

[0070] Clause 15 - A method according to any one of clauses 9 to 14, wherein the markers are indicators, and the markers are at least a first indicator, a second indicator, and a third indicator, the first indicator specifying that the runner should take a shorter step, the second indicator specifying that the runner should take a longer step, and the third indicator specifying the correct step.

[0071] Clause 16 - The method of any one of clauses 9 to 15, wherein the method further comprises creating a running timeline by collecting about 100 to about 1000 data points per second.

[0072] Clause 17 - The method according to any one of clauses 9 to 16, wherein the runner is running on a treadmill and a metronome is used for timing.

[0073] Clause 18 - A monitoring device comprising at least an accelerometer, at least one processor, at least one power source, and at least one electrical conductor, the at least one electrical conductor connected to the accelerometer, and the at least one processor receiving data from the at least one accelerometer.

[0074] Clause 19 - The monitoring device comprises a shoe attachment, wherein at least one electrical conductor, an accelerometer, at least one processor, and a power source are connected to the shoe attachment; and at least one sensor array, wherein the at least one sensor array comprises at least a first sensor, a second sensor, and a third sensor, wherein the first sensor is located on a heel of the shoe attachment, the second sensor is located on an inner forefoot of the shoe attachment, and the third sensor is located on a lateral forefoot of the shoe attachment; and wherein a conductive material is connected between the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor and the shoe attachment. 19. The monitoring device of claim 18, further comprising at least one sensor array routed to a lateral midfoot region of the shoe attachment, with conductors connecting conductive material at the lateral midfoot region of the shoe attachment; an electronics housing; a printed circuit board contained within the electronics housing, with the accelerometer and processor disposed on the printed circuit board; and conductors routed through the electronics housing and connected to the printed circuit board, wherein conductors from the shoe attachment connect to the conductors routed through the electronics housing, enabling the processor to receive accelerometer data.

[0075] Clause 20 - A monitoring device as described in clause 18 or 19, wherein the processor is capable of determining at least one of step length, step time, step velocity, momentum change between steps, and velocity change between steps.

[0076] The present specification has described non-limiting embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above methods and apparatuses can incorporate changes and modifications without departing from the general scope of the present subject matter. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

[0077] Having thus described the disclosure, we now claim the disclosure.

Claims

1. placing at least three markers; a first marker is a first distance from a second marker, and said second marker is a second distance from a third marker; instructing a runner to run and step on or near the marker while running; collecting gravitational acceleration data from the steps of the runner; correcting the gravitational acceleration data using double integration; A method for training a runner, comprising:

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first distance and the second distance are approximately a step length of the runner.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the distance between each successive marker is approximately a step length of the runner, and the runner minimizes the change in step length between steps.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the inter-step time and / or inter-step length of the runner is determined.

5. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the markers are at least a first indicator, a second indicator, and a third indicator, wherein the first indicator specifies that the runner should take a shorter step, the second indicator specifies that the runner should take a longer step, and the third indicator specifies a correct step, and the indicators can emit sound, light, or vibration.

6. emitting a sound, light, and / or vibration corresponding to the moment when the runner should step on or near the marker; emitting sound, light, and / or vibration when the runner lands; The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising:

7. The step of emitting sound, light, and / or vibration comprises: emitting at least a first sound, light, and / or vibration, a second sound, light, and / or vibration, and a third sound, light, and / or vibration, wherein the first sound, light, and / or vibration designates that the runner should take a shorter step, the second sound, light, and / or vibration designates that the runner should take a longer step, and the third sound, light, and / or vibration designates a correct step. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising:

8. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the correct step is one in which the step occurs within the correct step length and at the correct time.

9. 1. A method for training a runner to reduce energy expenditure, comprising: at least one accelerometer; at least one power source; at least one processor; At least one electrical conductor, the at least one electrical conductor being connected to the accelerometer, and the at least one processor receiving data from the at least one accelerometer. providing a monitoring device comprising: processing data from the accelerometer to determine at least one of step length, step time, step-to-step momentum change, and step-to-step velocity change; collecting gravitational acceleration data from the steps of the runner; correcting the gravitational acceleration data using double integration; A method comprising:

10. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising determining whether the runner accelerated or decelerated between steps by comparing the change in velocity between steps with an initial pivot velocity and a final pivot velocity.

11. 11. The method of claim 9 or 10, further comprising the step of positioning at least three markers, wherein a first marker is a first distance from a second marker, and the second marker is a second distance from a third marker.

12. 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of emitting a sound, light, and / or vibration corresponding to a time when the runner should step on or near a marker, wherein emitting a sound, light, and / or vibration further comprises emitting at least a first sound, light, and / or vibration, a second sound, light, and / or vibration, and a third sound, light, and / or vibration, wherein the first sound, light, and / or vibration designates that the runner should take a shorter step, the second sound, light, and / or vibration designates that the runner should take a longer step, and the third sound, light, and / or vibration designates a correct step.

13. 13. The method of any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the number of markers corresponds to at least 10 steps by the runner.

14. the monitoring device further comprises a shoe attachment, and at least one of the previous running sessions is a speed profile run; The speed profile run determining at least one of step length, step time, step velocity, momentum change between steps, and velocity change between steps while the runner is running at least at a first speed; determining at least one of step length, step time, step velocity, momentum change between steps, and velocity change between steps while the runner is running at least at a second speed; Including, The method of any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the at least second speed is greater than the at least first speed.

15. 15. The method of any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the markers are indices, the markers being at least a first indices, a second indices, and a third indices, the first indices specifying that the runner should take a shorter step, the second indices specifying that the runner should take a longer step, and the third indices specifying a correct step.

16. The method of any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the method further comprises creating a running timeline by collecting about 100 to about 1000 data points per second.

17. 17. The method of any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein the runner is running on a treadmill and a metronome is used for timing.

18. At least an accelerometer and at least one processor; at least one power source; at least one electrical conductor connected to the accelerometer, and wherein the at least one processor receives data from the at least one accelerometer; and A monitoring device comprising:

19. the monitoring device: a shoe attachment, wherein the at least one electrical conductor, the accelerometer, the at least one processor, and the power source are connected to the shoe attachment; at least one sensor array, the at least one sensor array comprising at least a first sensor, a second sensor, and a third sensor; the first sensor is located at the heel of the shoe attachment; the second sensor is disposed on the inside of the forefoot portion of the shoe attachment; the third sensor is disposed on the outer side of the forefoot of the shoe attachment; a conductive material is routed from the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor to a lateral midfoot region of the shoe attachment; at least one sensor array, wherein electrical leads connect the conductive material at the lateral midfoot region of the shoe attachment; an electronic device housing; a printed circuit board contained within the electronics housing, the accelerometer and the processor disposed on the printed circuit board; a conductor routed through the electronic device housing and connected to the printed circuit board; Furthermore, 20. The monitoring device of claim 18, wherein the electrical leads from the shoe attachment are connected to the electronics housing, enabling the processor to receive shoe attachment and accelerometer data.

20. 20. A monitoring device according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the processor is capable of determining at least one of step length, step time, step velocity, momentum change between steps, and velocity change between steps.

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