Samsung and the University of Michigan team up on smartwatch technology for runners

September 19, 2023

ESSI announced a research partnership with Samsung Electronics on smartwatch technology. Together, the two companies are looking to help runners manage their health and physical activity, and to provide them with more reliable and accurate data.

The eight-month long study, in which participant enrollment and data collection have already begun, is being overseen by The Michigan Performance Research Laboratory (MiPR), ESSI’s core research lab, using the Galaxy Watch series, specifically the recently launched Samsung Galaxy Watch6 and Galaxy Watch6 Classic, to estimate the VO₂ max and sweat loss of participants as they run.

These devices feature personalized fitness coaching, advanced sleep management and health monitoring, along with a Personalized Heart Rate Zone feature that provides five running intensity levels based on each individual’s capabilities. Another feature, called Track Run, helps runners record their runs while on a running track; Galaxy Watch provides analysis including asymmetry, regularity, and ground contact time to help improve performance and reduce injury. Vator TV