Incorrect running form is a common cause of overuse injuries in distance runners, both experts and novices. Rear-foot striking and overpronation are two key factors contributing to running injuries. We developed a haptic shoe that detects incorrect running biomechanics through data provided by a force sensor array in the sole and an IMU; based on the output of the sensors, vibrotactile and kinesthetic feedback are generated to prompt the user to correct their form.
Initial user testing results indicate that our prototype can effectively detect foot position and provide discernible haptic feedback to prompt form correction. Further investigation is needed to determine the efficacy of our system in the more dynamic, longer-distance running scenario for which this system is designed.