Interaction, Focus, Motion: Towards Design Principles for Running and Breathing Guidance Apps

"Interaction, Focus, Motion: Towards Design Principles for Running and Breathing Guidance Apps" presents an in-depth exploration of the design and iterative enhancement of a sound-based breathing guidance app aimed at improving the running experience. Grounded in embodied cognition theory, this research investigates how personalized auditory cues, rhythmic guidance, and motivational prompts can optimize runners' focus, enjoyment, and performance. Embodied cognition theory is particularly relevant here, as it emphasizes the connection between body movements and mental processes, which is central to enhancing the running experience through interactive design. Utilizing a user-centered design approach, the thesis incorporates iterative prototyping, usability testing, and mixed-methods analysis to refine app interactions and evaluate their impact. This research focuses on amateur runners, using their experiences and feedback to inform app refinements. Key contributions include insights into the role of customization, motion-based interaction methods, and the benefits of integrating motivational music to foster a seamless, immersive running experience. The findings offer practical design principles for future development of wearable sports technologies, emphasizing user engagement, focus enhancement, and minimized distractions. This work provides a valuable resource for researchers and designers looking to innovate in the fields of human-computer interaction, sports technology, and interactive wearable systems.