"I need that data": Exploring the data experience of amateur runners

Abstract

Running is an affordable way of becoming physically active. Currently, amateur runners utilize running trackers to keep records of their training and be aware of their performance. These special type of users experience "data" in addition to the running trackers. While there are studies that examine the experience of physical activity trackers, there is no study that explore the data experience of runners. Thus, this paper explores the dimensions of data experience of amateur runners who employ running trackers to learn about their performance. By giving a brief review of literature, this paper demonstrates how amateur runners experience data and how they expect to be informed, through a qualitative study conducted with 30 amateur runners. The paper will end with design suggestions to support the design of future running trackers that better meet amateur runners' data needs.