The Galaxy Watch8 series’ Running Coach feature offers personalized training for every skill level, helping runners — especially beginners and those who prefer to train solo — find joy in their progress.

After two years of running without a coach, Korean fitness influencer Narae Kim (@healthy_naraekim) felt her progress had plateaued. With Running Coach, she set out to push past that barrier. Samsung Newsroom followed her journey to see how it went.

Getting Started With Running Coach

Running without a goal can only take someone so far. For those unsure where to begin, the Galaxy Watch8 series offers an easy starting point. By simply slipping it on and heading outside, runners can use Running Coach in Samsung Health to set personalized goals.

The first step is the running level test. Before training begins, Running Coach evaluates a runner’s ability, assigns one of 10 levels and recommends a tailored program lasting three to five weeks.

▲ Running Coach evaluates each runner’s current ability before starting a program.

The method is simple — enter previous running experience into the Galaxy Watch8 series, then run as far as possible in 12 minutes. Beginners can start with walking or light jogging, gradually picking up the pace as guided by the watch. For the most accurate results, complete the test on a flat course and avoid overexertion the day before.

For her running level test, Kim ran at a steady pace for 12 minutes and entered her rating of perceived exertion (RPE).¹ The result placed her at level 6 — for runners aiming to complete a half marathon, with the specific goal of finishing 15 kilometers in under 1 hour, 42 minutes and 43 seconds. To reach that target, Running Coach created a five-week plan with 19 customized sessions.

Running Coach breaks down goals into 10 levels, guiding beginners toward a 5K and experienced runners toward a full marathon with step-by-step progression.

▲ Running Coach offers customized training plans for every level from beginners to marathoners.

Customized Programs To Match Any Level

One of the biggest questions in training is, “How far and how fast should I run today?” Running Coach provides a clear answer.

In the first week of her program, Kim opened Running Coach during an early morning visit to Hangang Park in Seoul. The day’s session was already laid out — no guesswork required.

Running Coach offers 15 to 19 customized sessions at each level. The plans call for three to four runs per week with recovery built in, making it easier to maintain a steady routine. After completing over 70% of a program, runners can test into the next level or retake the level test to update their training.

As a level 6 runner, Kim’s first session was a light 50-minute jog — manageable for her and a pleasant way to enjoy a crisp autumn morning.

▲ Sessions on Running Coach’s level 6 program

Running Coach in Samsung Health offers 160 programs, helping runners train systematically by level and goal. Instead of simply increasing intensity, the feature gradually adjusts difficulty to reduce injury risk and encourage lasting habits.

Beginners can build endurance with walking and low-intensity jogging, while skilled runners improve through sessions that incorporate high-intensity intervals, long slow distance² runs and fartlek training.³ Each level’s program is designed to steadily build ability, track progress and deliver a sense of accomplishment.

Coaching in Real Time

Consistency of pace is one of the most important aspects of running, but keeping breathing and speed steady can be difficult. When Kim’s breathing faltered during one session, her Galaxy Watch8 gave real-time audio feedback such as “Slow down” and “Keep it up!” — like having a personal coach at her side.

Running Coach is more than an app that tracks distance and time. Powered by the Galaxy Watch8 series’ advanced sensors, the feature delivers real-time data in an intuitive way — helping runners understand their pace and fitness level as they train.

▲ Running Coach provides real-time feedback, helping runners adjust heart rate and pace.

During runs, the watch displays key metrics such as split pace, heart rate and left-right balance to help runners stay in rhythm and build proper habits. After each session, a detailed report is generated with the runner’s self-entered RPE to show how well the run matched their fitness level.

▲ Runners can view post-run metrics including maximum oxygen uptake and heart rate.

Most importantly, Running Coach provides scored feedback that makes progress easy to see at a glance. Beyond simple numbers, the feature creates a sense of growth and achievement through structured training — a strength that sets it apart.

Add Up Scores To Build a Routine

Running consistently requires not only stamina but also routine. Beyond Running Coach, the Galaxy Watch8 series offers features that help build lasting habits.

Each morning, Kim checks her Energy Score and Sleep Score in Samsung Health to choose a running session that matches her condition. Energy Score combines sleep, activity and heart rate data to measure physical and mental wellness on a scale of 0 to 100. The feature also offers daily recovery tips to balance exercise and rest.

As a professional who often works overtime, she has found this feature especially helpful for maintaining her program without overexertion.

▲ Energy Score and Sleep Score in Samsung Health

Google Gemini — available on a smartwatch for the first time with the Galaxy Watch8 series — takes the running experience even further. From her wrist, Kim asked, “Show me nearby flat running routes.” With Gemini’s help, she discovered new courses to explore.

Even indoors on the treadmill, she could simply say, “Convert my pace in minutes per kilometer to treadmill speed in kilometers per hour.” Gemini instantly delivers the result, making the feature just as useful for indoor training.

A Partner for the Long Run

After completing her five-week plan, Kim retook the running level test — and advanced to the next tier. The personalized training programs in Galaxy Watch8 series’ Running Coach had clearly elevated her performance.

“My goal is to complete a half marathon. Before using Running Coach, I often felt uncertain about pacing and adjusting intensity. But with its tailored programs and data-driven feedback, the quality and efficiency of my runs have clearly improved,” said Kim, reflecting on her experience. “What impressed me most was how it guides you step by step from the basics, almost like a textbook. I’d highly recommend it to beginner runners.”

“Running isn’t about heading out every single day — it’s more important to alternate training with recovery,” she added. For beginners, she recommended what she calls “leapfrog running,” an every-other-day approach. “The biggest motivation in running comes from seeing your own progress and achievements. With Running Coach, you can stay motivated to the very end — even when running solo.”

Consistency is the hardest part of running. But now, the Galaxy Watch8 series is a dependable partner on the wrist — one that tracks a runner’s rhythm and stays by their side. For anyone hoping to build the habit and sharpen their skills, why not start with the Galaxy Watch8 series’ Running Coach?

¹ Rating of perceived exertion is a scale used to subjectively measure the intensity of physical activity.
² Long slow distance is a training method builds endurance and cardiovascular strength by running long distances at a slow pace.
³ Fartlek, Swedish for “speed play,” is a flexible training method that alternates faster running with slower jogging without fixed intervals.

The Galaxy Watch8 series makes band swapping easier than ever, offering a broad collection to suit various preferences and occasions. Samsung Newsroom takes a closer look at the features and appeal of the Galaxy Watch8 series bands.¹

▲ The Galaxy Watch8 series band lineup

Dynamic Lug System: Effortless Band Changes in a Single Click

The lug is the part of the watch case that connects the watch to the band. The Galaxy Watch8 series features the Dynamic Lug System — an intuitive mechanism first introduced in last year’s Galaxy Watch Ultra — that allows users to swap bands easily with the press of a button.

Thanks to the simplified lug connection, the band now sits more naturally against the wrist — minimizing the gap between the watch case and band. This improved fit enhances comfort while offering a smoother, more refined look. With hassle-free band swapping, users can enjoy a fresh style every day.

▲ Dynamic Lug System

Hybrid Band: Elegant Versatility for Everyday Wear

Perfect for both work and everyday life, the Hybrid Band combines sleek design with practical functionality to suit any setting.

▲ The Hybrid Band blends style and practicality with a dual-material design.

The outer side features a bio-based synthetic leather with a luxurious texture,² while the inner surface is crafted from high-performance rubber for a flexible, secure fit. The inner layer is made from a sweat-resistant, sports-grade material, making it comfortable to wear even in the summer.

Stitched detailing adds a refined touch, complementing not only casual outfits but also formal business attire. For those seeking a band that seamlessly adapts to a variety of situations throughout the day, the Hybrid Band is the ultimate choice.

▲ (From left) The Galaxy Watch8 series Hybrid Band in Blue, Camel, Taupe, White and Black

Sport Band: Optimized for Every Workout

Users looking for the perfect workout companion can turn to the Sport Band. Crafted from soft, flexible rubber, the band fits snugly around the wrist without adding pressure. A wave-like pattern enhances airflow, helping users stay dry even after intense activity.

▲ The Sport Band ensures lightweight comfort for any kind of workout.

Tone-on-tone stitching adds a subtle, refined touch, while the tucked-in design keeps the band secure and out of the way during exercise. Whether running, playing badminton, doing Pilates or even swimming, the Sport Band’s lightweight, secure fit ensures all-day comfort — during workouts and beyond.

▲ (Counterclockwise from top left) The Galaxy Watch8 series Sport Band in Pink, White, Blue, Mint and Graphite

Athleisure Band: Style With an Active Edge

For those who won’t compromise on style while staying active, the Athleisure Band is the ideal choice. A slim profile, subtle striped pattern and colorful side accents combine to create a modern, fashion-forward look.

▲ The Athleisure Band offers a sleek design with a stylish edge.

With vibrant colors and a soft, comfortable fit, the Athleisure Band transitions effortlessly from workouts to daily wear. Users can mix and match with different outfits to create a fresh new look every day.

▲ (From left) The Galaxy Watch8 series Athleisure Bands in Graphite, White, Green, Blue and Sage

Fabric Band: Comfort That Lasts From Sunrise to Sleep

Users seeking the lightest and softest option can turn to the Fabric Band. Made with recycled materials,³ the nylon fabric offers a gentle texture and exceptional breathability — ensuring all-day comfort, even while asleep and with extended wear.

▲ The Fabric Band is comfortable enough to wear even while sleeping.

The Velcro closure allows for a snug, adjustable fit, maintaining stability even during sleep. As a result, the Fabric Band delivers a soft, airy feel on the wrist — day and night, from workouts to rest.

▲ (From left) The Galaxy Watch8 series Fabric Band in Blue, Mint, White, Red and Graphite

A small change on the wrist can bring new energy to everyday life. With a diverse selection designed to reflect individual personalities and lifestyles, the Galaxy Watch8 series bands expand the possibilities of a smartwatch. By adding the joy of creating a different vibe each day, Samsung helps users complete their style and personalize their experience with the Galaxy Watch8 series bands.

¹ The Galaxy Watch8 bands are compatible with the Galaxy Watch8 Classic. Available colors and models may vary by country and region.
² The Galaxy Watch8 series Hybrid Band contains at least 2.8% bio-based materials, such as polylactic acid (PLA) derived from plant-based sources like corn. The outer layer is made with 65% bio-based material. These figures are based on testing conducted in accordance with ASTM D6866-24 standards.
³ The Galaxy Watch8 series Fabric Band contains at least 21% recycled materials. The fabric used in the band is made from a minimum of 44% recycled content.