Type of Publication: Working paper

Buying vs. Building: Can Money Fix Everything When Prototyping in CyclingHCI for Sports?

Author(s):

Keppel, Jonas; Schneegass, Stefan

Location(s):

CHI 2024, Honolulu, Hawai'i

Publication Date:

2024

Language:

English

Keywords:

indoor cycling; spinning; bike; sports; prototyping

Fulltext:

Buying vs. Building: Can Money Fix Everything When Prototyping in CyclingHCI for Sports? (6.69 MB)

Link to complete version:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/379697296_Buying_vs_Building_Can_Money_Fix_Everything_When_Prototyping_in_CyclingHCI_for_Sports

Citation:

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Abstract

This position paper explores the dichotomy of building versus buying in the domain of Cycling Human-Computer Interaction (CyclingHCI) for sports applications. Our research focuses on indoor cycling to enhance physical activity through sports motivation. Recognizing that the social component is crucial for many users to sustain regular sports engagement, we investigate the integration of social elements within indoor cycling topics. We outline two approaches: First, we utilize Virtual Reality (VR) Exergames using a bike-based controller as input and actuator aiming for immersive experiences and, therefore, buying a commercial smartbike, the Wahoo KickR Bike. Second, we enhance traditional spinning classes with interactive technology to foster social components during courses, building self-made sensors for attachment to mechanical indoor bikes. Finally, we discuss the challenges and benefits of constructing custom sensors versus purchasing commercial bike trainers. Our lessons learned contribute to informed decision-making in CyclingHCI prototyping, balancing innovation with practicality.