1.5 years ago, the Ghent University spin-off OnTracx set out to tackle one of the most common problems in running: injury due to overloading. With a smart wearable and a science-backed approach, they aimed to help runners train more safely. But how has the journey unfolded since their founding in September 2023? In this blog, we revisit OnTracx’s story and explore what they’ve achieved so far — and where they’re heading next.
Running smarter, not harder
In September 2023, the Ghent University spin-off OnTracx was founded by Rud Derie, Senne Bonnaerens and Kristof De Mey. Their goal? Reducing the millions of running injuries, caused by too much load on muscles and bones during running.
In short: OnTracx has brought to market a wearable device worn just above the ankle by runners. It measures the load on joints, tendons, and muscles during training in terms of G-force, which reflects the total force exerted on the body. The device displays a color-coded risk indicator (e.g., red for high risk, green for low) tailored to the individual runner’s tolerance levels. The wearable connects to an app that tracks session data and calculates the total weekly load. This helps runners gradually increase their training intensity to prevent injuries.
For Dutch-speaking readers or visual learners: the Universiteit van Vlaanderen made a great explainer video on running load and how OnTracx adds value. Watch it here.
From lab bench to business: how it all began
The origins of OnTracx trace back to 2015, with the Lower Impact Runner project — an academic effort to understand and reduce running-related injuries. What started as research eventually evolved into a tangible product, thanks to a shared vision between founders Rud, Senne, and Kristof De Mey.
Fast forward to 2025, and the young company is growing fast. So, what have they achieved so far?
Read more about the Lower Impact Runner and the transitioning to OnTracx
Milestones from the first 18 months
- ✅ Translated an academic prototype into two market-ready products: a B2C app and a B2B platform.
- 🚀 Launched in the market just 6 months after incorporation — a rare pace for a spin-off.
- 💰 Generated early revenue and identified a clear beachhead market.
- 📈 Rolled out a recurring revenue model.
- 🤝 Formed partnerships with major players including Garmin, Materialise, Atletiek Vlaanderen, and BOIC.
- 🏥 Gained adoption by top rehabilitation centers in Belgium.
- 🏅 Named one of Belgium’s Top 10 fastest rising tech startups (Deloitte Technology Fast 50).
- 👥 Grew the team from 2 to 4 full-time employees — and are actively hiring to fill 3 more roles.

Q&A with Rud & Senne: reflections from the founders
What are you most proud of when you look back at the past year and a half?
Senne: Launching two products in just one year has been huge — taking things from academic research to real-world application is a major milestone for us. I’m also really proud of how we’ve grown the team and built such a strong, positive culture. And honestly, everything I’ve learned along the way. It’s been a wild ride — “rollercoaster” doesn’t even begin to cover it.
Rud: I completely agree. As a team, we’ve achieved a lot — launching two solid products and staying laser-focused on our mission. That kind of alignment is rare. On a personal level, the growth has been massive. I started this journey not even knowing what an API was, and now I’m building components within our platform and learning more every day. It’s been intense, but incredibly rewarding.
What kind of feedback are you hearing from runners and partners, and how does that shape your roadmap?
Senne: Our users don’t hold back — and we love that. Because we got to market quickly, we’ve been able to learn fast and get a really clear sense of what runners and partners are actually looking for. Now, our job is to translate that feedback into focused development priorities so we can continue to build a product that really delivers.
Rud: For us, simplicity is key. We’re constantly trying to distill complex sports science and biomechanical concepts into features that are simple, practical, and genuinely helpful. That translation isn’t easy — but that’s where the real impact happens.
How do you see the role of wearables evolving in sports and injury prevention over the next few years?
Senne: Wearables are becoming more and more mainstream — they’re just part of how athletes train now. Right now, they’re crucial for enabling evidence-based load management.
Rud: I think wearables are here to stay, but the real value will come from how you use the data. Data collection isn’t the challenge anymore — the future lies in turning that data into actionable insights that actually help athletes train smarter and stay injury-free.
Has starting OnTracx changed how you approach running or training personally?
Senne: Absolutely! I use OnTracx for every run now — to manage my load, track progress, and train toward clear goals in a structured way. It also helps me evaluate my gear, and see how things like pace affect my load. And with our Garmin integration, all of that has become way easier to monitor.
Rud: My whole mindset has shifted. I used to focus on classic running stats, but now my number one priority is maintaining a balanced load. That’s what really keeps me healthy and consistent.
What advice would you give to other researchers or students thinking about launching a spin-off?
Senne: Talk to your potential customers early — they’ll give you insights no textbook can. Don’t fall into the trap of overdeveloping. Build something real, get feedback, and iterate. Most importantly, build a team you fully trust. That trust is your foundation. And when in doubt — just go for it!
Rud: Embrace iteration. Build, launch, fail, learn, repeat. I know it’s a cliché, but failure really is where the best lessons are. And if you’re not technical, don’t worry — you can still start. Learn the basics, play around with modern tools, and build a prototype. These days, even a little knowledge can take you a long way 😊

What’s next for OnTracx?
Looking ahead, OnTracx remains laser-focused on its mission: to further develop a solution that delivers evidence-based mechanical load management for the prevention and rehabilitation of lower leg overuse injuries in runners. But they’re not looking to reinvent the wheel. The team is just as committed to deepening integration with the tools runners, coaches, and rehab professionals already use — from popular running watches and training apps to coaching platforms and clinical rehab software.
With a growing team, strong momentum, and a clear roadmap, OnTracx is building toward a future where running smarter — and staying injury-free — becomes second nature.
👉 Want to stay up to date or get involved? Visit ontracx.com or follow them on LinkedIn.