Get HCM digital magazine and ezines FREE
Sign up here ▸
Jobs   News   Features   Products   Magazine      Advertise  
Activity tracking
Stay on track

Fitness trackers are becoming increasingly sophisticated – and popular. Tom Walker looks at some of the hottest products on the market

By Tom Walker | Published in Health Club Management 2016 issue 9


3D ANALYSIS

Product: Atlas Wristband

The Atlas Wristband is geared toward strength training, instead of just cardio-based exercises such as running and cycling. The device measures gym activities by analysing wrist motions in 3D and then comparing them against an inbuilt library of common exercises.

The wristband can be programmed to guide the user and keep track of their progress, as well as acting like an electronic personal trainer.

The moment the wearer hits his or her rep goal, they feel a vibration to signal the beginning of rest time. When it’s time to start on the next set, Atlas gives out another signal. The wristband is also waterproof to a depth of 30 meters.

fitness-kit.net keyword: Atlas wristband

 



Atlas Wristband
WEIGH IT UP

Product: Beast

While there are now data capture tech solutions which allow the tracking and measuring of weight training – such as PushStrength and GymWatch –Italian-designed Beast is looking to disrupt the market by displaying results in real time.

Beast’s magnetic sensor can be attached to weights – such as barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells or gym machines – as well as to the body during free training. The sensor is then linked to a smartphone app to record the data and produce a live stream showing effort levels.

Users are able to review their performance in detail during rest time, get suggestions from Beast, and improve training by adjusting loads, sets or reps based on their training goals.

fitness-kit.net keyword: BEAST

 



Beast’s magnetic sensor
24/7 MONITORING

Product: Samsung Gear Fit2

With its eye-catching design and sophisticated tracking abilities, Gear Fit2 aims to secure a market for itself as a hybrid between a smartwatch and a fitness device.

Its key strengths are its design and self-activating tracking mechanisms: Gear Fit2 is able to automatically track the steps and other forms of exercise undertaken by its owner – such as riding a bike, using a rowing machine, doing squats and even yoga poses. It can detect when the user is sleeping, and estimate the daily calorie spend based on activity. It also checks the user’s heart rate every 10 minutes.

Fit2 then takes all the data it gathers and uses it to produce a 24-hour log of the user’s activities.

fitness-kit.net keyword: SAMSUNG

 



Samsung Gear Fit2
FROM GYM TO BOARDROOM

Product: Fitbit Blaze

The newest product in the Fitbit family of trackers is being marketed as being fit not just for the gym but also for the boardroom.

The unit itself now looks more like a designer watch, and the user is also given the opportunity to add a high level of customisation to its look and feel, as the straps can be easily replaced and swapped depending upon their attire.

Fitbit Blaze is designed to be worn throughout the day and night and measures pretty much everything during that time – steps, calories burned, stairs climbed, active time, resting heart rate and even quality of sleep.

The user is also offered a number of sport modes to choose from, which will record different activities using the built-in heart rate monitor.

When paired up with a smartphone armed with a GPS sensor, Fitbit can also act as a running watch.

fitness-kit.net keyword: FITBIT

 



The Fitbit Blaze
ONE-FOR-ALL TRACKER

Product: Gymwatch

German-designed Gymwatch is based on a patented sensor and, when it first launched in 2014, was one of the first trackers designed to measure the motion and strength expended in a wide range of exercises – encompassing both cardio and strength work. 

The latest, updated version – which is compatible with the Apple Watch – was launched earlier this year.

Strapped around a user’s arm or leg muscles (or both with two sensors), the device includes an accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer to record the course of limb movements on all axes and measure the time under tension of different muscle contractions.

Programmed to recognise more than 900 different activities, Gymwatch can be connected to iOS and Android apps to provide feedback on the exercise sessions, to help users perform the exercises properly and get maximum results.

fitness-kit.net keyword: GYMWATCH

 



Gymwatch measures limb movements
THE AI TRAINER

Product: Vi

Developed by Israeli technology firm LifeBeam, Vi is a personal training product driven by artificial intelligence (AI). The product is designed to harness the user’s data to provide customised two-way fitness coaching.

Part fitness tracker, part smartwatch, part PT, Vi applies AI to the user’s workout data, biometrics and goals to coach them through tailored workout plans. It will also adapt these plans according to terrain, weather and location.

As well as talking to its owner, Vi can also play their favourite music (via Spotify and Apple Music) through its Harman/Kardon-designed headphones – and even enable the receiving of phone calls.

The product contains a string of sensors and is worn around the neck, attached to two headphones – which relay workout feedback from Vi – and a microphone for the user to speak to her. It also communicates with the user via text message, asking for feedback on mood, sleep quality and body condition.

See p14 for more information.

fitness-kit.net keyword: LIFEBEAM

 



Vi has a string of sensors worn around the neck
ACTIONABLE INSIGHT

Product: Moov NOW

Launched on 16 July, Moov Now is marketed as the wearable fitness product which goes “further than any other on the market”. The bold claim by its creator – California-based company Moov Inc – is based on the product being a virtual coach.

Moov Now has the ability to provide real-time feedback with actionable insight into every workout, so users not only know the number of kilometres they’ve run or laps they’ve swum, but how to improve every movement.

The product tracks activity and form while exercising and also provides real-time audio and visual guidance on the user’s activities. For example, when running, the user is advised when to land softer, shorten stride or pick up the pace.

For swimming, the programme provides automatic lap, stroke and turn breakdown, while the cycling programme monitors speed, distance, cadence and elevation. It also provides gear coaching for the rider. There are also seven-minute workout and cardio boxing programmes.

fitness-kit.net keyword: Moov

 



Moov Now acts like a virtual coach to its users
FEATURED SUPPLIERS

Phil Heath, 7x Mr Olympia, shares machine-only leg workout routine
Phil Heath, professional athlete, bodybuilder and 7x Mr. Olympia, has fielded a lot of questions about bodybuilding without machines. Should bodybuilders be limited to just free weights? Why? [more...]

Places Leisure successfully launches myFitApp to enhance member experience
Places Leisure is a leading leisure centre operator with a mission to create active places and healthy people for communities to thrive. [more...]
+ More featured suppliers  
COMPANY PROFILES
Orbit4

Orbit4 is the ultimate software solution for operators to manage their fitness facility. [more...]
Everyone Active

Everyone Active operates leisure centres in partnership with local councils across the UK. Today, Ev [more...]
+ More profiles  
CATALOGUE GALLERY
 
+ More catalogues  

DIRECTORY
+ More directory  
DIARY

 

30-30 May 2024

Forum HOTel&SPA

Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, France
30 May - 02 Jun 2024

Rimini Wellness

Rimini Exhibition Center, Rimini, Italy
+ More diary  
 
ABOUT LEISURE MEDIA
LEISURE MEDIA MAGAZINES
LEISURE MEDIA HANDBOOKS
LEISURE MEDIA WEBSITES
LEISURE MEDIA PRODUCT SEARCH
 
HCM
LEISURE OPPORTUNITIES
HEALTH CLUB HANDBOOK
PRINT SUBSCRIPTIONS
FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
ADVERTISE . CONTACT US

Leisure Media
Tel: +44 (0)1462 431385

©Cybertrek 2024
Get HCM digital magazine and ezines FREE
Sign up here ▸
Jobs    News   Products   Magazine
Activity tracking
Stay on track

Fitness trackers are becoming increasingly sophisticated – and popular. Tom Walker looks at some of the hottest products on the market

By Tom Walker | Published in Health Club Management 2016 issue 9


3D ANALYSIS

Product: Atlas Wristband

The Atlas Wristband is geared toward strength training, instead of just cardio-based exercises such as running and cycling. The device measures gym activities by analysing wrist motions in 3D and then comparing them against an inbuilt library of common exercises.

The wristband can be programmed to guide the user and keep track of their progress, as well as acting like an electronic personal trainer.

The moment the wearer hits his or her rep goal, they feel a vibration to signal the beginning of rest time. When it’s time to start on the next set, Atlas gives out another signal. The wristband is also waterproof to a depth of 30 meters.

fitness-kit.net keyword: Atlas wristband

 



Atlas Wristband
WEIGH IT UP

Product: Beast

While there are now data capture tech solutions which allow the tracking and measuring of weight training – such as PushStrength and GymWatch –Italian-designed Beast is looking to disrupt the market by displaying results in real time.

Beast’s magnetic sensor can be attached to weights – such as barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells or gym machines – as well as to the body during free training. The sensor is then linked to a smartphone app to record the data and produce a live stream showing effort levels.

Users are able to review their performance in detail during rest time, get suggestions from Beast, and improve training by adjusting loads, sets or reps based on their training goals.

fitness-kit.net keyword: BEAST

 



Beast’s magnetic sensor
24/7 MONITORING

Product: Samsung Gear Fit2

With its eye-catching design and sophisticated tracking abilities, Gear Fit2 aims to secure a market for itself as a hybrid between a smartwatch and a fitness device.

Its key strengths are its design and self-activating tracking mechanisms: Gear Fit2 is able to automatically track the steps and other forms of exercise undertaken by its owner – such as riding a bike, using a rowing machine, doing squats and even yoga poses. It can detect when the user is sleeping, and estimate the daily calorie spend based on activity. It also checks the user’s heart rate every 10 minutes.

Fit2 then takes all the data it gathers and uses it to produce a 24-hour log of the user’s activities.

fitness-kit.net keyword: SAMSUNG

 



Samsung Gear Fit2
FROM GYM TO BOARDROOM

Product: Fitbit Blaze

The newest product in the Fitbit family of trackers is being marketed as being fit not just for the gym but also for the boardroom.

The unit itself now looks more like a designer watch, and the user is also given the opportunity to add a high level of customisation to its look and feel, as the straps can be easily replaced and swapped depending upon their attire.

Fitbit Blaze is designed to be worn throughout the day and night and measures pretty much everything during that time – steps, calories burned, stairs climbed, active time, resting heart rate and even quality of sleep.

The user is also offered a number of sport modes to choose from, which will record different activities using the built-in heart rate monitor.

When paired up with a smartphone armed with a GPS sensor, Fitbit can also act as a running watch.

fitness-kit.net keyword: FITBIT

 



The Fitbit Blaze
ONE-FOR-ALL TRACKER

Product: Gymwatch

German-designed Gymwatch is based on a patented sensor and, when it first launched in 2014, was one of the first trackers designed to measure the motion and strength expended in a wide range of exercises – encompassing both cardio and strength work. 

The latest, updated version – which is compatible with the Apple Watch – was launched earlier this year.

Strapped around a user’s arm or leg muscles (or both with two sensors), the device includes an accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer to record the course of limb movements on all axes and measure the time under tension of different muscle contractions.

Programmed to recognise more than 900 different activities, Gymwatch can be connected to iOS and Android apps to provide feedback on the exercise sessions, to help users perform the exercises properly and get maximum results.

fitness-kit.net keyword: GYMWATCH

 



Gymwatch measures limb movements
THE AI TRAINER

Product: Vi

Developed by Israeli technology firm LifeBeam, Vi is a personal training product driven by artificial intelligence (AI). The product is designed to harness the user’s data to provide customised two-way fitness coaching.

Part fitness tracker, part smartwatch, part PT, Vi applies AI to the user’s workout data, biometrics and goals to coach them through tailored workout plans. It will also adapt these plans according to terrain, weather and location.

As well as talking to its owner, Vi can also play their favourite music (via Spotify and Apple Music) through its Harman/Kardon-designed headphones – and even enable the receiving of phone calls.

The product contains a string of sensors and is worn around the neck, attached to two headphones – which relay workout feedback from Vi – and a microphone for the user to speak to her. It also communicates with the user via text message, asking for feedback on mood, sleep quality and body condition.

See p14 for more information.

fitness-kit.net keyword: LIFEBEAM

 



Vi has a string of sensors worn around the neck
ACTIONABLE INSIGHT

Product: Moov NOW

Launched on 16 July, Moov Now is marketed as the wearable fitness product which goes “further than any other on the market”. The bold claim by its creator – California-based company Moov Inc – is based on the product being a virtual coach.

Moov Now has the ability to provide real-time feedback with actionable insight into every workout, so users not only know the number of kilometres they’ve run or laps they’ve swum, but how to improve every movement.

The product tracks activity and form while exercising and also provides real-time audio and visual guidance on the user’s activities. For example, when running, the user is advised when to land softer, shorten stride or pick up the pace.

For swimming, the programme provides automatic lap, stroke and turn breakdown, while the cycling programme monitors speed, distance, cadence and elevation. It also provides gear coaching for the rider. There are also seven-minute workout and cardio boxing programmes.

fitness-kit.net keyword: Moov

 



Moov Now acts like a virtual coach to its users
LATEST NEWS
JD Gyms acquires Simply Gym as it targets 100 locations
The JD Gyms Group has completed a deal to acquire Simply Gym from Bay Leisure. The deal comprises four gyms: one in Greater London and three in South Wales.
Baz Moffat gets 'sweat equity' backing from Priya Oberoi to drive the growth of The Well HQ
Women’s health specialist, The Well HQ, has secured 'sweat equity' backing from Priya Oberoi, founder of venture capitalists, Goddess Gaia Ventures, who will take on a senior advisory role with the business.
Peloton buys time for a turnaround with US$1 billion loan
Peloton has secured a critical US$1bn five-year loan to shore up its finances.
Dean Kowarski, global CEO of Virgin Active, will keynote at HCM Summit 2024
Leisure Media has added another heavyweight to its line-up of CEOs for its inaugural HCM Summit this October. Dean Kowarski will talk about the intersection of fitness and nutrition.
Empowered Brands takes on Fit+ master franchise for UK and Ireland
Empowered Brands has signed a deal with European staffless gym chain, Fit+, to be the master franchisor in the UK and Ireland.
PureGym hits the two million member milestone and targets 200 more locations in Europe in next four years
Speaking in the HCM Handbook 2024-2025, which will be out next month, PureGym managing director, Rebecca Passmore, says the company is on track to deliver on its global expansion plans.
1Rebel plans expansion following cash injection from Imbiba
Leisure, lifestyle, wellness and entertainment growth investor, Imbiba, has invested in boutique gym brand, 1Rebel's holding company, One Rebel Ltd, after closing a £90 million fund.
PILAT3S to debut in ClubSportive, Amsterdam
Urban Gym Group will launch PILAT3S at ClubSportive in Amsterdam next month, to create a boutique-in-gym experience.
Cedric Bryant is the new CEO at The American Council on Exercise
Dr Cedric Bryant takes up the new position on 1 July, following on from Scott Goudeseune who has been ACE CEO for more than 15 years, overseeing significant growth.
UK Active and Savanta launch quarterly consumer engagement insight
Improving physical strength and fitness, mental health and confidence are the main reasons for joining a health club, while cost, time and motivation are the main reasons for leaving.
Snap Fitness' holding company – Lift Brands – is up for sale
Speaking to HCM, global CEO of Lift Brands, Ty Menzies, has confirmed that the company –  owner of Snap Fitness and Fitness On Demand – is up for sale.
Planet Fitness increases price of basic membership for first time in over 20 years
Planet Fitness has announced the repurchase of 314,000 shares at a rate of US$20 million. The Class A common stocks were repurchased and retired, using cash.
+ More news   
 
FEATURED SUPPLIERS

Phil Heath, 7x Mr Olympia, shares machine-only leg workout routine
Phil Heath, professional athlete, bodybuilder and 7x Mr. Olympia, has fielded a lot of questions about bodybuilding without machines. Should bodybuilders be limited to just free weights? Why? [more...]

Places Leisure successfully launches myFitApp to enhance member experience
Places Leisure is a leading leisure centre operator with a mission to create active places and healthy people for communities to thrive. [more...]
+ More featured suppliers  
COMPANY PROFILES
Orbit4

Orbit4 is the ultimate software solution for operators to manage their fitness facility. [more...]
+ More profiles  
CATALOGUE GALLERY
+ More catalogues  

DIRECTORY
+ More directory  
DIARY

 

30-30 May 2024

Forum HOTel&SPA

Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, France
30 May - 02 Jun 2024

Rimini Wellness

Rimini Exhibition Center, Rimini, Italy
+ More diary  
 


ADVERTISE . CONTACT US

Leisure Media
Tel: +44 (0)1462 431385

©Cybertrek 2024

ABOUT LEISURE MEDIA
LEISURE MEDIA MAGAZINES
LEISURE MEDIA HANDBOOKS
LEISURE MEDIA WEBSITES
LEISURE MEDIA PRODUCT SEARCH
PRINT SUBSCRIPTIONS
FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS