Sonar-powered treadmill ‘offers naturalistic speed adjustment’

Exercise researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new type of treadmill that features sonar technology to enable more responsive speed adjustments.

The prototype device uses off-the-shelf components including an inexpensive sonar range finder, attached to a microcontroller and computer, and set up behind the treadmill, aimed at the runner's back.

It is able to determine the user's exact position on the treadmill, making it possible to automatically increase or decrease the overall speed based on whether they are moving ahead of or falling behind the centre of the running belt.

As such, it allows for a much more naturalistic exercise experience that seamlessly adjusts its speed without the need for manual adjustment.

Steven Devor, associate professor of kinesiology at Ohio State University, said: "If you're running outside and you want to speed up or slow down, there is no button to push. It is the same with this new automated treadmill."

The research has been detailed in a study published online in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports and Exercise. It is currently restricted to lab use, but could be commercialised in future.