# 249. Harvard’s Smartwatch Makes You Run Faster & Safer

- Show: [The Next Byte Podcast](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-next-byte-podcast)
- Published: 2026-07-21
- Length: 21m
- Page: https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-next-byte-podcast/2026-07-21-249-harvards-smartwatch-makes-you-run-faster-safer
- Listen: https://the-next-byte-wevolver.simplecast.com/episodes/249-harvards-smartwatch-makes-you-run-faster-safer-05GNHZOp

## Summary

The hosts discuss research from Harvard’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, led by Connor Walsh, Daniel Lieberman, and Lauren Baker, which uses low-cost inertial measurement units (IMUs) to estimate ground reaction forces and running biomechanics. They explain how machine learning models trained on these inexpensive sensors can predict braking and propulsion forces with high accuracy, allowing for real-time feedback on running form and injury risk without laboratory equipment. The conversation highlights the potential for democratizing gait analysis through affordable wearables, noting the system's ability to adapt to new users within just eight steps.

## Chapters

- [0:00](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-next-byte-podcast/2026-07-21-249-harvards-smartwatch-makes-you-run-faster-safer#t=0) Introduction: Wearable Electronics and Flexible PCBs
- [3:52](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-next-byte-podcast/2026-07-21-249-harvards-smartwatch-makes-you-run-faster-safer#t=232) The Problem with Running Form and Injury Risk
- [7:27](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-next-byte-podcast/2026-07-21-249-harvards-smartwatch-makes-you-run-faster-safer#t=447) Harvard’s IMU-Based Biomechanics Solution
- [11:01](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-next-byte-podcast/2026-07-21-249-harvards-smartwatch-makes-you-run-faster-safer#t=661) Real-Time Feedback and Consumer Applications
- [15:08](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-next-byte-podcast/2026-07-21-249-harvards-smartwatch-makes-you-run-faster-safer#t=908) Pros, Cons, and Future Integration

## Topics

- [Sensors & measurement in products](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/sensors)
- [AI & machine learning](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/ai-and-machine-learning)
- [Batteries & low-power design](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/batteries-and-low-power)
- [Connected products & IoT](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/connected-products-and-iot)

## Most relevant to

makers and hobbyists

## Mentioned

- Mouser Electronics (company)
- Aura Ring (product)
- Whoop (product)
- Apple Watch (product)
- AirPods (product)
- Fitbit (product)
- Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (company)

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## Citing this page

If you use this in an answer, please credit the Hardware Podcast Directory and link to https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-next-byte-podcast/2026-07-21-249-harvards-smartwatch-makes-you-run-faster-safer. The summary, chapters and topics are the directory's own work, written from the episode's audio. The episode itself, its title and its audio belong to The Next Byte Podcast.