metrics – Backerjack

There’s nothing like going out and enjoying a good run in the morning in order to clear out the cobwebs and get the day started right. Of course, running at the end of the day can be a great stress reliever. Either way, Gaiteye helps those who enjoy running to learn the biomechanics of how their run can improve. The foot pad sensor measures key gait performance metrics such as the way the foot strikes the ground, stride length and cadence and several other factors. This way, they can learn what they’re doing right and continue optimizing their jog.

This product seems like a great way for runners to watch how they are improving and use that information for self-motivation, especially if they are able to use it in conjunction with a personal trainer. Similar to the runScribe, it takes information from feet instead of wrists to measure key running metrics. This campaign seeks to raise kr100,000 (~$13, 500) by December 19, 2014. Early bird backers can get one product for kr 940 DKK (~$127), with an expected delivery of March 2015.

The Premise. Runners and joggers love to run and jog all the time. The only problem with this high-impact sport is the injuries that it can cause. These injuries tend to knock athletes off of their feet and they are unable to run for a period of time. It is unclear where these injuries come from and why they occur so frequently.

The Product. RunScribe is a small portable device that attaches to the back of your shoe via a cradle that works with all different kinds of sneakers. This device is worn during a run and, at the end, automatically uploads its data to your computer. Using its 9-axis kinematic sensor, the product measures 13 points of data including impact Gs, braking Gs, pronation velocity, pace, contact time and footstrike type. It runs on battery and uses Bluetooth to connect to the iOS and Android app as well as the computer. RunScribe is small and only about the size of pedometer.

The Pitch. RunScribe’s campaign video shows its creator discussing the drawbacks of running-induced injuries. He explains that with the metrics his product provides, a runner will be able to compare their stats with that of the average runner through the app. For example, he found that he was hitting the ground much harder than the average. In addition, he discusses the value of using runScribe to compare different types of sneakers. RunScribe is hoping to raise $50,000 in a month on Kickstarter.

The Perks. For $99, backers will receive the runScribe with limited metrics. At the $119 tier, backers get the runScribe and complete set of metrics at an early price as compared to the regular price of $139. Reward tiers reach up to $2,500 with estimated delivery set in November and December 2014.

The Potential. Fitness devices are everywhere right now. Not literally, they’re not lying around in the streets, but there are a ton of options to choose from for any athlete looking for metrics about their performance. Most are more overarching like the Arcus ring, but runScribe offers a service that’s unique to runners. It lives on the foot instead of the wrist or finger to get the data that runners need. In addition, it provides baseline statistics on what other runners are experiencing. All in all, runScribe is an excellent option for runners who want to prevent injury and improve their stride.