GestureShirt: Exploring Gestures in Front of the Body for Truly Mobile Interaction while Running

Running is the most practiced sport worldwide. Modern technology significantly enhances the running experience. Runners frequently use audio devices, monitoring apps, and wearable sensors like heart rate monitors. Utilizing these technologies while in motion presents unique challenges, as continuous movement can obstruct user interaction. Common devices, such as smartphones, smartwatches, and fitness trackers, are widely employed, but their small interfaces and touch screens often necessitate slowing down for effective use. In this work we explore the space around the body for truly mobile interaction during the run. This demo paper introduces GestureShirt, a novel garment that employs removable distance sensors to explore gestural interaction around the body. Based on an exploratory study (N = 16) we distilled three strategies for utilizing gestures in front of the body for truly mobile interaction. In the demonstration, visitors can explore these strategies through functioning prototypes.