Design and Overground Testing of a Portable Hip Exosuit for Enhancing Running Efficiency

Abstract

Over the past decade, considerable steps have been made in designing wearable assistive devices that reduce the metabolic cost of walking. As the field continues to advance, a growing emphasis is extending to human running, driven by the goal of improving efficiency and reducing metabolic strain. In our study, we developed a portable active exosuit to support hip extension during endurance running. The exosuit, featuring custom linear actuators and a control system synchronous with the wearer’s kinematics, initially underwent bench testing and, finally, a field evaluation with users running at their self-selected pace on an athletics track. Results from seven participants showed a significant reduction in the metabolic cost of transport when the exosuit was active. Specifically, we observed a 9.6% decrease with respect to the unpowered condition, with a 4.3% net saving compared to not wearing the device. Additionally, kinematic assessments revealed no alteration of the participants’ motion after toe-off, indicating transparency to physiological movement pattern during hip flexion. These findings highlight the potential of the exosuit to enhance athletic performance, opening new possibilities for running assistance in real-world scenarios.