Jan 18, 2007 Doug Kurtis Column: Running Technology By Doug Kurtis :: Views- 245
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Technology is a key component driving the auto industry. It also plays a major role in the running world. Timing chips, GPS watches, iPods, improved footwear and clothing have changed the way events are organized and the methods people use to prepare for races.

ChampionChip timing was officially introduced at the Berlin Marathon in 1994. This technology has revolutionized the way events are scored. Creating results for every participant would be almost impossible at mega races let alone publishing their split times.

The basis for the ChampionChip technology is the radio-frequency-identification system (RFID) from Texas Instruments. The technology is achieved through the combination of synchronized multiple antennas, high-tech analog and digital electronics, and dedicated software for live bulk data handling.

Improvements to this timing method are on their way. Currently, the chip requires event organizers to distribute and gather them before and after a race. The cost of lost chips, finish line fencing and removing the chips can take a small bite out of a race budget and resources. A throw away chip could solve these issues.

Last week, the Boulder Boulder race in Colorado announced they will employ a “smart tag” which works similar to electronic ID badges and is about half the size of a credit card. The new product from IPICO Sports expects its RFID product to get more detailed results to runners cheaper and faster.

Another product that is making an impact on runners and walkers is GPS, global positioning systems. Garmin's Forerunner series, the newest generation for monitoring distance, speed, pace, calories burned and heart rate has higher sensitivity (and uses more battery power).

The latest GPS receivers retrieve information quicker and have improved its ability to track information while running under trees and near tall buildings. Other new features include downloading recorded courses, auto pause so you don't have to stop and start your timer, and a virtual partner that lets you train against a digital person.

Another option is a Foot Pod that attaches to your shoe. It tracks data when running indoors or where GPS reception is unavailable. Nike has a similar product. They have combined with Apple to customize performance feedback through an iPod nano. Now you can set up your playlists and sync workouts via a sensor that fits inside a Nike shoe.

Heart rate monitors have been out on the market for some time. Adidas has developed a footwear and apparel package with Polar's newest heart rate monitor RS800 system. Called Project Fusion, it includes a monitoring device that clips into the Adidas shirt and sits close to the chest. This eliminates the binding strap that wraps around a runners chest. The monitoring pod is sunk into the midsole of the shoe creating a seamless environment for tracking information.

Computer technology is helping many other facets of the running industry. Design software such as SolidWorks at New Balance is helping their shoe designers to develop new footwear via its CAD three dimensional renderings.

The ability to use on-line registration has made it easier for runners to sign up for races, eliminates paperwork and enables more accurate information. Greater details about events, plus post race results, are readily available on race web sites. Email has been a marketing tool to encourage runners and volunteers to sign up early. It can also save thousands of dollars in mailing costs.

Technology can provide convenience. Why not let it provide the motivation to keep running?

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Doug Kurtis can be reached by clicking here!

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