Samsung Unveils Running Coach: A Data-Driven AI Feature to Rival Apple's Workout Buddy

Is Samsung’s Running Coach Outperforming Apple’s Workout Buddy? Wearable technology has been making significant strides in offering personalized health coaching and advice. Last week, Apple unveiled a new AI-powered feature for WatchOS 26, named Workout Buddy, which will soon be available on Apple Watches. Workout Buddy serves as a health coach, guiding users through their workouts and providing historical statistics, motivation, and real-time feedback. Meanwhile, this week, Samsung rolled out its own health coaching feature, Running Coach, via One UI 8, the latest software update for its Galaxy Watches. Running Coach is specifically designed for recreational runners who are preparing for 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or full-marathon events. It aims to optimize training by assessing the runner's current ability level and tailoring a program to suit their fitness goals and experience. Samsung emphasizes in its press release that the primary objective of Running Coach is to prevent injuries by fine-tuning the training regimen to meet individual needs. To use Running Coach, the user needs to wear a Galaxy Watch for at least 12 minutes during a run. The feature then evaluates the runner’s performance and assigns a rating out of 10. Based on this assessment, it generates a personalized training plan, taking into account factors such as the user’s pace and strength. Users can progress through various levels and unlock new challenges as they complete their training sessions. Apple’s Workout Buddy, on the other hand, supports a broader range of activities beyond just running. These include outdoor and indoor walking, cycling, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and both functional and traditional strength training, all accessible through the smartwatch's Fitness app. While Running Coach focuses on detailed, long-term training plans, Workout Buddy provides encouragement and real-time stats during the workout, making it more versatile for various types of physical activities. At first glance, Running Coach appears to be the more comprehensive training tool. It leverages all the data collected from the user’s continuous use of the watch, including their exercise history, to craft a highly personalized and scientifically-backed training plan. This approach could be particularly beneficial for runners looking to improve their performance methodically and safely. However, to truly determine which feature is more useful, I will need to test both on their respective devices. Running Coach is not the only highlight of Samsung’s One UI 8 update. Along with Bedtime Guidance and other enhancements, it is part of a suite of four new features set to debut on Samsung's upcoming lineup of Galaxy Watches, expected to launch later this summer. Users eager to get a head start on these new features can join Samsung’s beta program, which is open to owners of the Galaxy Watch5 series or newer models. For those interested in exploring the latest in smartwatch technology, ZDNET Recommends offers expert reviews and top product picks, ensuring that you make informed choices about your next wearable device. In summary, while Apple’s Workout Buddy excels in providing real-time support and versatility across multiple activities, Samsung’s Running Coach stands out for its detailed and personalized long-term training plans. Both features represent significant advancements in AI-driven health and fitness coaching, catering to different needs and preferences among users. Whether you’re a dedicated runner or prefer a more varied workout routine, these new tools promise to enhance your fitness journey.