Nearly half of runners reckon their run ‘doesn’t count’ unless they’ve tracked it on their fitness device, according to research. A poll of 1,000 runners found 44% wouldn’t take their cardio seriously if they didn’t have a record of it.
The research commissioned by Samsung Galaxy Watch8 found the majority of runners (93%) claim monitoring their fitness helps them feel more confident in their overall journey, while 32% often adjust their routine based on insights from their data tracking.
It also emerged 21% consider what their tracking data recommends over how they are feeling, and 28% reckon their running would worsen if they didn’t have the tech to track it.
Jacob Kiplimo, world record holder and TeamGalaxy athlete who trains with watch, said: “Consistency is key, but what many people don’t realise is that recovery is equally as important as physical training. To compete at your best, you need to maximise your energy, and the only way to do that is through consistent rest.
“Seeing progress mapped out in real time can make a run feel more tangible and rewarding – helping people stay engaged with their goals and take pride in how far they’ve come.
“But at the same time it also highlights how deeply technology is now woven into our exercise habits.”
The study also found 75% of runners who track their fitness said their running progress is directly informed by their tracking device. Distance (64%), heart rate (62%) and duration (61%) are among the most popular metrics to track – with only 14% keeping an eye on recovery and 15% stress.
But 49% of fitness-tracking runners have previously gone for a run despite their smart device telling them to focus on rest and recovery. Of those, 39% did not run to their full potential, 35% had to stop several times, and 28% even regretted their exercise as it didn’t feel productive.
Once the R&R is over, 56% of those polled, via OnePoll.com, typically run a cool 5K – while an impressive 36% complete half marathons. Almost all (82%) feel inspired by runners who complete the full 26 miles, with 45% keen to sign up to one next year.
Annika Bizon at Samsung UK & Ireland, said: “Running has become more data-driven than ever before, and that’s not a bad thing.
“Tracking can be incredibly motivating and can help people see just how far they’ve come, but what’s equally important is listening to your body.
“We’re helping runners see the full picture of their health, from sleep and recovery to performance, so they can train in a way that’s more balanced, more informed and more sustainable.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
