Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 11, 2025
11:54
Real-Time Proxy-Control of Re-Parameterized Peripheral Signals using a Close-Loop Interface
Published on: May 8, 2021
5.0K
On Performance and Perceived Effort in Trail Runners Using Sensor Control to Generate Biosynchronous Music.
Duncan Williams1, Bruno Fazenda1, Victoria Williamson2
1School of Computing, Science & Engineering, the University of Salford, the Crescent, Salford M5 4WT, UK.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 23, 2020
Summary
Generative music systems like HEARTBEATS can enhance running performance. Cadence-synchronous music boosted male runners
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Biofeedback Systems
Background:
- Music's positive impact on athletic performance is established in controlled settings.
- Existing music systems lack real-time adaptation to individual physiological data.
- Wearable biosensors offer potential for personalized auditory feedback during exercise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate HEARTBEATS, a generative music system adapting to runner's heart rate and cadence.
- To compare the effects of heart rate-synchronous versus cadence-synchronous music on running performance.
- To assess perceived exertion and endurance across different music synchronization conditions.
Main Methods:
- A randomized trial (N=54) involving runners on a trail course.
- Real-time music generation modulated by Photoplethysmography (PPG) and Global Positioning System (GPS) data.
- Participants ran until reaching a Borg rating of perceived exertion of 18.
Main Results:
- Cadence-synchronous music improved performance and reduced perceived effort in male runners.
- For female runners, cadence-synchronous music enhanced performance.
- Heart rate-synchronous music significantly reduced perceived effort and increased duration for female runners.
Conclusions:
- Biosignal-synchronous music systems can be tailored for enhanced athletic performance.
- Personalized music tempo synchronization (heart rate vs. cadence) yields differential effects based on sex.
- This research supports the development of adaptive music technologies for training and coaching.
