# Comparison of Smart Bands with MEMS and Motion Tracking Systems Used in Running

## TL;DR

This study compares Smart Bands and motion tracking systems for measuring running parameters and finds strong agreement between them at different speeds.

## Contribution

The study evaluates the accuracy of Smart Bands as a potential replacement for inertial measurement units in running analysis.

## Key findings

- Strong correlation (r2 = 0.968–0.996) between IMU and motion tracking systems at various running speeds.
- Xiaomi Mi Band 2 showed acceptable correlation (r2 = 0.861–0.987) and could replace IMUs.
- Agreement improves with increasing running speed across all tested systems.

## Abstract

This research utilizes a self-developed inertial sensor in conjunction with a motion tracking system and four Smart Bands to record a runner’s movements and extract parameters such as step numbers, length, and frequencies at different running speeds. The data obtained were processed to find the number of steps taken. These steps were also recorded by an IMU (inertial measurement unit) and motion tracking system (MoCap—Motion Capturing) and used to compare the different systems and find their agreement at different running speeds. The results show a very strong correlation between the IMU and the motion tracking system with r2 = 0.968 at 6 km/h, r2 = 0.991 at 8 km/h, r2 = 0.991 at 10 km/h, and r2 = 0.996 at 12 km/h. The Xiaomi Mi Band 2 showed an r2 = 0.861 at 6 km/h, r2 = 0.985 at 8 km/h, r2 = 0.977 at 10 km/h, and r2 = 0.987 at 12 km/h and can therefore be considered a good replacement for an IMU.