Runo 2.0 logo

Runo 2.0

Metronome app that keeps your running cadence steady

2026-01-27

Product Introduction

  1. Definition: Runo 2.0 is an iOS-based running cadence metronome app (Health & Fitness category) that delivers real-time rhythmic audio or haptic beats to synchronize a runner’s stride frequency (SPM).
  2. Core Value Proposition: It eliminates pace drift during runs by providing consistent auditory/haptic feedback, directly improving running economy, reducing injury risk, and maintaining running form under fatigue.

Main Features

  1. Customizable Cadence Metronome (120-220 SPM):
    How it works: Users set their target steps-per-minute (SPM). Runo generates precise, adjustable-tempo beats via device speakers, Bluetooth headphones, or Apple Watch haptics. Utilizes Core Audio for low-latency playback, allowing simultaneous use with podcasts/music via background audio APIs.
  2. Apple Watch Haptic Feedback:
    How it works: Transmits metronome pulses as haptic taps directly to the wrist via watchOS 10.0+, enabling phone-free runs. Leverages Taptic Engine API for precise vibration patterns synced to SPM.
  3. Social Leaderboards & Friends:
    How it works: Tracks run metrics (distance, time, cadence) and ranks users on weekly/monthly leaderboards. Implements invite links, contact syncing, and real-time activity feeds using Firebase or similar BaaS for data synchronization.
  4. Strava Sync:
    How it works: Automatically uploads run data (GPS route, cadence, heart rate, splits) to Strava post-workout using OAuth 2.0 API integration. Maps visualized via Mapbox SDK.
  5. Treadmill Mode:
    How it works: Disables GPS tracking; users manually input distance post-run. Uses accelerometer data for step counting validation when available.

Problems Solved

  1. Pain Point: Inconsistent pacing ("pace drift") during runs due to fatigue or terrain. Runo’s real-time SPM feedback locks in rhythm, improving pacing accuracy by up to 10%.
  2. Target Audience:
    • Beginner runners learning proper cadence (160-180 SPM)
    • Marathoners preventing late-race form breakdown
    • Injury-prone runners reducing impact via shorter strides
    • Tech-focused athletes syncing data with Strava/Apple Watch
  3. Use Cases:
    • Tempo runs maintaining target pace via auditory cues
    • Treadmill sessions with manual distance logging
    • Injury rehabilitation by enforcing lower-impact cadence
    • Social motivation through friend challenges/leaderboards

Unique Advantages

  1. Differentiation: Unlike basic metronome apps (e.g., RunTempo), Runo integrates real-time biometric tracking (cadence, heart rate), Strava sync, social features, and Apple Watch haptics—consolidating training tools into one platform.
  2. Key Innovation: Haptic-only mode on Apple Watch enables discreet, phone-free cadence training—unique among running metronomes. "Metronome Only" toggle addresses privacy by disabling location/health data collection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Does Runo 2.0 require location sharing?
    No. Enable "Metronome Only" mode in Settings to use core beat functionality without GPS, HealthKit, or location access.
  2. Can I use Runo with Apple Watch without my iPhone?
    Yes. Runo’s watchOS app supports standalone haptic metronome playback and run tracking via Watch GPS.
  3. How does cadence (SPM) reduce running injuries?
    Higher cadence (170+ SPM) shortens stride length, lowering impact forces on knees/hips by up to 20%, per biomechanics studies cited in Runo’s documentation.
  4. Is Runo suitable for treadmill running?
    Yes. Activate Treadmill Mode to disable GPS; manually enter distance post-run. Cadence metronome works offline.
  5. Does Runo sync with other fitness platforms?
    Runo auto-syncs run data (map, cadence, heart rate) to Strava. No direct Garmin/Polar support yet.

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