A Low-Cost GNSS Prototype for Tracking Runners in RTK Mode: Comparison with Running Watch Performance

GNSS positioning is widely use in every kind of application. Nowadays, low-cost GNSS modules are becoming available to apply the Real-Time Kinematic mode in those applications in which a centimeter-level accuracy would be appreciated for a precise positioning. In this work, we developed a prototype for collecting data in RTK mode with a single-frequency multi-constellation device during some physical tests performed by a professional runner. Prior to do this, we assessed the accuracy in estimating the distance actually covered during a walking on a signalized line. Also, we verified the capability to detect short sprints of about 12–15 s. Finally, we compared the results of our prototype with a Polar M430 running watch during three Cooper tests and a Kosmin test. The comparison highlighted that the running watch overestimated the total distance systematically and did not describe the performance of the athlete accurately in time. The distance overestimation was +4.7% on average using the running watch, whereas our prototype system exhibited an error level of about 0.1%.