Breath Tools: Exploring the Effects on Adherence and User Experience of 4 Sounds Assisting Runners with Coupling Breath to Steps

Abstract

Running is a popular sport worldwide. Locomotor-Respiratory Coupling (LRC), a breathing technique in which the breath is coupled to steps, can positively impact running experience and economy. LRC may be difficult to learn and maintain during a run. Sound cues are a promising method to guide LRC while running. We designed four guiding sounds and evaluated these in a preliminary study (N=9). All sounds supported participants with LRC (on average 74.9±16.2% of time attached to the LRC rhythm). Based on our findings we advocate sound guidance for LRC and present directions to improve adherence and run experience.