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 distance[2] 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?

Purchase the Galaxy Watch8 series today:

• Galaxy Watch8: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-44mm-silver-bluetooth-sm-l330nzsaxme/
• Galaxy Watch8 Classic: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-classic-46mm-black-bluetooth-sm-l500nzkaxme/
• Galaxy Watch Ultra: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch-ultra-2025-47mm-titanium-blue-lte-sm-l705fzb1xme/

[1] Long slow distance is a training method builds endurance and cardiovascular strength by running long distances at a slow pace.

[2] Fartlek, Swedish for “speed play,” is a flexible training method that alternates faster running with slower jogging without fixed intervals.

[3] Rating of perceived exertion is a scale used to subjectively measure the intensity of physical activity.

Biohacking is about turning personal health data into micro-upgrades that boost wellness and longevity. Early biohackers might have chased these gains with extreme diets, supplements and experimental techniques. But if you scroll your social feed today, tech leads the conversation.

At the forefront of this tech-driven movement is the Galaxy Watch8 series. Seamlessly integrating into your daily routine, it quietly tracks key lifestyle metrics so you can see how the choices you make throughout the day impact your health.

Before we dive in, let’s do a quick check-in: how many of these biohacks are already part of your routine?

Already acing your biohacks? The Galaxy Watch8 series refines each habit for faster, smarter gains.

Optimize Your Sleep with Biohacking

We spend about 30% of our lives asleep, yet irregular schedules and sub-optimal environments still undermine rest. The Galaxy Watch8 series optimizes sleep by analyzing your sleep patterns and environment, identifying issues, and giving actionable tips to help build consistent, restorative sleep habits.

• How can I follow a regular sleep schedule?

Wear Galaxy Watch8 for three nights to unlock Bedtime Guidance. It analyzes your sleep patterns and recommend the best times to wind down, based on your sleep pressure and circadian rhythm, helping you reset your sleep schedule and maximize alertness during the day.

• How can I improve my sleep quality?

Galaxy Watch8 tracks every toss, turn and breath of your night. Each morning you get an in-depth sleep analysis based on your sleep stages, heart rate, skin temperature and oxygen level, highlighting what helped or hindered your rest. You can also access a Sleep Environment Report which leverages data from your other SmartThings devices to analyze room temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide and light levels. With this data at your fingertips, you can easily optimize your room conditions for a better night’s sleep.

• What can I do during the day to improve my sleep?

Once your sleep patterns are defined, Sleep Coaching assigns you a Sleep Animal and delivers personalized tips like adding a quick meditation session or skipping late-day caffeine. With Galaxy Watch8, small, daily habit upgrades are easy, and better nights are within reach.

Optimize Your Workouts with Biohacking

Some people train for marathons. Others just want to feel less stiff after sitting all day. So how do you reach your goals while staying motivated and avoiding injury? The Galaxy Watch8 series gives you all the answers, all while sitting snugly on your wrist thanks to its sleek design and dynamic lug system.

• How do I set the ideal fitness goal for me?

Galaxy Watch8’s built-in Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) sensor measures your body fat percentage, body-water content and skeletal muscle mass, so you get a comprehensive snapshot of your body. These insights help you create a personalized training plan and track every step of your progress.

• How can I start running more consistently?

Start with Running Coach, which analyzes your pace and fitness level after just a 12-minute run to build a custom routine. It also keeps you motivated during your runs with real-time feedback, helping you to reach your goals. Worried about potential injury? Running Coach provides tailored training programs at the ideal intensity, helping you gain speed safely.

• How can I maximize recovery after training?

Samsung Health gives you the tools for optimal post-workout recovery. Check your heart rate after an intense workout and get recommendations on water intake based on sweat loss, so you can get the rest you need to come back stronger.

[Bonus Tip] Try Zone 2[1] interval training, known to improve endurance and boost fat burning potential. Galaxy Watch8 sets personalized Heart Rate Zones (HR Zone) based on your fitness level to help you stay within your personal HR Zone 2 for peak results.

Optimize Your Nutrition with Biohacking

Now that sleep and activity are under control, turn to the everyday habits that drive healthy aging. The Galaxy Watch8 series is the first smartwatch to track antioxidant levels, giving you a real-time view of your cellular health and how each lifestyle choice shapes it. Just put your thumb on the back sensor to get Instant Nutritional Feedback that used to require lab tests.

• How do I know if I’m eating enough fruits and vegetables?

Use the Antioxidant Index to see how your diet and lifestyle habits impact healthy aging. Within just five seconds, it measures the carotenoids — natural antioxidants from fruits and veggies — stored in your skin and provides a score out of 100. It also offers tips to boost your score, like adding more colorful produce such as carrots, broccoli and oranges to your meals.

• How can I cut down on unhealthy habits?

First, we must learn more about how our bodies are affected by these unhealthy habits. Your Energy Score provides insights on how factors such as alcohol intake and late-night snacking affect your health, while Antioxidant Index directly shows the impact of these habits — motivating you to change your ways and adopt a healthier lifestyle.

• How can I easily track my water intake?

Proper hydration is essential for performing at your best, but it is often difficult to track. With Samsung Health, you can track your water intake with just a tap and set a daily hydration goal. Galaxy Watch8 will handle the rest by sending personalized reminders and monitoring trends, making it effortless to stay on top of your game.

The Galaxy Watch8 series turns biohacking from buzzword to habit — personal, actionable and effortless. Wear it, watch the insights roll in, and let better health become second nature.

Grab the all new Galaxy Watch Series with these rebates as well to expand your Galaxy ecosystem:

To purchase Samsung’s latest devices, please visit the following sites:

Samsung Galaxy Watch8: https://www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch8/buy/?modelCode=SM-L320NZSAXME

Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic: www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-classic-46mm-black-bluetooth-sm-l500nzkaxme/

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra: www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch-ultra-2025-47mm-titanium-blue-lte-sm-l705fzb1xme/

[1] Zone 2 refers to the second of the five heart rate zones, or 60% to 70% of your maximum heart rate.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today introduced Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic[1], establishing an iconic design identity across the entire Galaxy Watch lineup. Building upon the foundation of the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s cushion design, this series boasts the thinnest, most comfortable Galaxy Watch ever[2] for continuous health tracking. The Galaxy Watch8 series suits diverse lifestyles and provides advanced capabilities, setting a new standard for style and personalized health experiences.

“We are committed to empowering billions of people to live healthier lives through our innovative technology,” said TM Roh, President and Acting Head of the Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “By combining purposeful design with advanced sensor technology and an intuitive AI-powered experience, the Galaxy Watch8 series serves as a starting point for a healthier, more connected life, making it easier than ever to take meaningful steps toward users’ well-being.”

Redesigned Inside and Out for Ultimate Wellness

By reimagining both form and function, the Galaxy Watch8 series delivers unmatched comfort alongside industry-leading performance, making it the ultimate companion for everyday wellness. The distinctive cushion design, which debuted with Galaxy Watch Ultra, now defines the entire Galaxy Watch lineup. To achieve the thinnest design yet, the internal structure of Galaxy Watch8 was completely reengineered and its component mounting capability has been improved by 30%, resulting in an 11% thinner design. Combined with the Dynamic Lug system, this design moves naturally with the wrist, providing greater comfort and improved stability² for a better fit and enhanced health-tracking accuracy.

Galaxy Watch8’s sleek profile is complemented by its exceptional performance. Even when you are outdoors under bright sunlight, the display is 50% brighter² with a peak brightness of 3,000nits for easy visibility, and the enhanced battery² ensures the watch can keep up with an active lifestyle. Moreover, the dual-frequency GPS provides more detailed and precise location results² while our most powerful 3nm processor delivers faster performance and greater power efficiency. With the groundbreaking BioActive Sensor that enables deeper and more accurate health insights, the Galaxy Watch8 series helps provide a holistic view of your health.

Motivation for Lasting Health Changes

Sleep is a window into your overall health and each restful night allows your body and mind to recover immediately the very next day. That’s why Samsung is continuously advancing the sleep experience, offering tailored sleep coaching and helping to create an optimal sleep environment. On top of that, the Galaxy Watch8 series comes with new unique health features on the Samsung Health app[3] that help you build healthier habits through instant, motivational insights – from sleep to nutrition and workout.

Bedtime Guidance[4] can measure your circadian rhythm to suggest the optimal time to go to bed so you wake up refreshed the next morning. Vascular Load[5] helps monitor the stress levels on your vascular system during sleep. Providing insights on various lifestyle factors including sleep, stress and activity, it helps you adopt a more comprehensive approach to managing your health.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch8 series introduces Antioxidant Index[6] for the first time in a smartwatch, enabling you to measure carotenoid levels in just five seconds and make informed lifestyle choices for healthy aging.

Whether you’re a novice or experienced runner, the Galaxy Watch8 series delivers personalized fitness insights to keep you motivated when you need it most. Running Coach[7] calculates your fitness level from 1 to 10 and develops a tailored training plan complete with real-time guidance and motivational insights. With the updated Together feature, which now supports running, you can gamify your fitness journey by challenging friends and family.

If high level of stress persists, High Stress Alert will immediately signal so that you can take a break to help manage your stress levels in real-time. With Mindfulness Tracker, you can record your mood and receive guidance on breathing exercises to relieve your stress – all at once on your wrist.

Plus, the AI-powered Energy Score[8] gives you a snapshot of your energy level, combining physical and mental energy metrics so you can have a healthier day, every day.

Easier Watch Interaction with Wear OS and Gemini

Developed in close collaboration with Google, the Galaxy Watch8 series is the first smartwatch to come out of the box with Gemini[9], Google’s AI assistant, and be powered by Wear OS 6. Go hands-free using natural voice commands to get things done on the go with your Galaxy Watch apps like Samsung Health, Calendar, Reminder, and Clock. For example, you can ask Gemini to find a nearby cafe and text a friend to meet you there, all in one go. Or, if you’re ready to start your workout and you have a goal in mind, simply say, “Start a 30-minute run.” The watch seamlessly initiates the workout in Samsung Health.

In addition, thanks to the new One UI 8 Watch, the user interface is optimized for the size and shape of the watch face. The new Multi-Info Tiles provide easy access to health metrics, weather, events and more – all in a single, quick look. Moreover, the new Now Bar and depthless notifications ensure key activities are front and center.

Tailored to Match Every Lifestyle

Galaxy Watch8, Galaxy Watch8 Classic and the new Galaxy Watch Ultra are available for pre-order in select markets starting today, with general availability starting July 25^th[10].

Featuring a sleek and minimalist design, Galaxy Watch8 is designed for everyday wellness. Available in 44mm or 40mm sizes and in Graphite or Silver, it provides comfort and style for daily activities. Meanwhile, Galaxy Watch8 Classic brings timeless sophistication to the wrist with modern features such as a rotating bezel and a quick button for added convenience. The Classic model measures 46mm and comes in Black and White. Plus, both models can be matched with a range of stylish bands[11] designed to suit diverse lifestyles.

For those who love outdoor adventures, Galaxy Watch Ultra is the most advanced and durable Galaxy Watch model yet. Available in four titanium finishes including the new Titanium Blue, it offers the longest battery life and the most robust performance in the lineup.

If you’re looking for a more discreet wearable that offers continuous health tracking, Galaxy Ring boasts superior comfort and up to seven days of battery life. Available in Titanium Black, Titanium Silver and Titanium Gold, the Galaxy Ring comes in sizes 5-15¹⁰.

Expand your Galaxy Ecosystem today with the new Galaxy Watch Series!

To buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch8, please visit: www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-44mm-silver-bluetooth-sm-l330nzsaxme/

To buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic, please visit: www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-classic-46mm-black-bluetooth-sm-l500nzkaxme/

To buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, please visit: www.samsung.com/my/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch-ultra-2025-47mm-titanium-blue-lte-sm-l705fzb1xme/

To buy the Galaxy Ring, please visit https://www.samsung.com/my/rings/galaxy-ring/galaxy-ring-titanium-gold-size-15-sm-q515nzdaxme/

Galaxy Watch8 Series Specifications

[1] Availability and features may vary depending on market, model and the smartphone paired. All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice.

[2] Compared to the previous Galaxy Watches.

[3] Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring or management of any medical condition or disease. Any health-related information accessed through the device and/or application should not be treated as medical advice. Users should seek any medical advice from a physician. Certain features may vary by market, carrier, or the device paired.

[4] Based on 3 days of sleep analysis of user’s circadian rhythm and sleep pressure.

[5] Wearing a compatible Galaxy Watch is required when sleeping for at least 3 of the most recent 14 days.

[6] To measure, the user should place the center of their finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for 5 seconds. While Antioxidant Index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for the most accurate result. Repeat measurement due to uneven skin texture may lead to different results.

[7] Prior to starting the coach program, taking a running level test and receiving a level designation is required.

[8] Only available when user register a compatible Galaxy Watch or Galaxy Ring at least once.

[9] Gemini mobile app available on select devices, languages, and countries. Requires compatible Wear OS watch to be connected to a compatible device. Check responses for accuracy. Internet connection and set up may be required. Features may differ depending on subscription and account. Results for illustrative purposes and may vary. Google and Gemini are trademarks of Google LLC.

[10] Color and size availability may vary by market.

[11] Sold separately. Availability of watch bands may vary by market or carrier.

[12] Measured without health sensors.

[13] Measured without band.

[14] Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, device model, network environment and other factors. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory conditions. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among battery samples tested under the IEC 61960 standard.

[15] Testing conducted by Samsung using pre-released version of Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic (BT & LTE), each paired to a Samsung phone; all devices tested with prerelease software, Galaxy Watch Magnetic Fast Charging USB C Cable (EP-OL300), and Samsung 25W USB C Power Adapter (EP-TA800). Charge time varies according to region, settings, usage patterns and environmental factors; actual results may vary. Samsung 25W USB C Power Adapter (EP-TA800) sold separately.

[16] Wear OS Powered by Samsung works with phones running Android 12 or later with more than 1.5GB of memory. Compatible devices may vary by market, carrier or device brand.

[17] LTE connectivity only available in LTE models.

[18] Galaxy Watch8 series has obtained MIL-STD 810H Certification: It has undergone a test that repeats from -20°C (1Hr) to 50°C (1Hr) for a total 6 hours.

[19] Device activation is only available after connecting to a smartphone that supports Google Mobile Services. Compatible devices may vary by market, carrier or device brand.