In preparation for the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports) provided comprehensive professional support to the University’s running community. Leveraging its interdisciplinary research strengths, RISports offered PolyU runners a full suite of scientific services, including 3D foot scanning, body composition analysis, and gait assessment. Based on individual foot shape and running biomechanics data, the Institute prescribed customised functional insoles—developed in‑house by PolyU—to optimise foot support and reduce injury risks.
For marathon participants, RISports also deployed its self‑developed Smart Cadence Sensor, which delivers real‑time vibration alerts when a low cadence is detected, helping runners adjust their pace to lower joint load and improve running efficiency. Data collected through these technologies will further fuel ongoing sports science research at RISports, driving innovation in wearable systems and performance analytics.
This year, PolyU—a ten‑time winner of the “Most Supportive Group Award”—again demonstrated its vibrant community spirit, with around 3,000 students, faculty, staff, alumni, and their families taking part in the event.