OnTracx, a spin-off from Ghent University, combines science and technology in an innovative wearable for runners. The tiny device, the size of a coin, accurately measures the mechanical load on the body during running. By giving runners insight into their training load, OnTracx aims to help prevent running injuries caused by overuse.
From doctorate to spin-off
Senne Bonnaerens and Rud Derie, both researchers in running biomechanics at UGent, founded OnTracx together with Kristof De Mey. The idea originated from their doctoral research, where they investigated the impact of running technique, footwear and surface on the load on the body. The technology developed during their research formed the basis for the wearable that runners can now use to train more safely.
What does OnTracx do?
The wearable, worn around the ankle, measures the mechanical load on joints, tendons and muscles while running. Through a linked app, runners get instant feedback in the form of a color code: green for safe load and red if there is an increased risk of overload. The app keeps track of all data and helps runners build up their training load gradually and responsibly.
What are the benefits?
- Real-time feedback: runners get instant insight into their load during training.
- Scientifically based: based on years of research on running biomechanics.
- Accessibility: technology previously available only in specialized labs is now available to everyone.
Future prospects
OnTracx targets runners with a history of injuries, a target market that numbers millions worldwide. The company plans to scale up from a few hundred sales to 10,000 units per year in the first few years. In addition, OnTracx plans integrations with sports watches and apps such as Strava, giving users even more insight into their performance and physical load during their training. Eventually, OnTracx aims to become a standard tool for injury prevention, both for individual athletes and professional trainers and coaches.
With OnTracx, Ghent University is demonstrating how research can lead to practical applications that offer broad societal added value and is contributing to a new era in injury prevention and sports technology.
Contact information
- Kristof De Mey: researcher profile
- Email: info@ontracx.com
- Website: https://www.ontracx.com/
- LinkedIn: OnTracx