Running dynamics
Running dynamics are measurements of running form recorded by a watch, chest strap or foot pod — such as ground contact time, vertical oscillation, vertical ratio, stride length and cadence. They show how you run, not just how fast.
The main metrics
Ground contact time is how long each foot stays on the ground per step, in milliseconds; it shortens as you run faster. Vertical oscillation is how much you bounce up and down with each step. Vertical ratio divides that bounce by stride length, so a lower number means less wasted vertical movement for the distance you cover.
How to use them
Compare your own runs at similar paces rather than chasing someone else's numbers. Rising ground contact time or vertical oscillation late in a long run can show form breaking down with fatigue — a cue to work on strength and economy.
In The Next Race
The Next Race shows running dynamics from Garmin and Apple Watch on each activity's charts.