Fitness trackers and smart watches have become ubiquitous, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how technology can improve and enhance your workout routine. Here are some of the latest gadgets that are poised to revolutionize how you exercise.
New virtual reality systems are making at-home workouts more engaging and effective. Products like the Oculus Quest 2, which doesn’t require a PC, provide an immersive experience for cardio, strength, and flexibility training. Some systems offer virtual classes with real instructors, while others provide scenic virtual routes for running, biking and walking in place.
Smart yoga mats and exercise mats contain pressure sensors that can count your reps, track your form, and provide real-time feedback on how to improve your technique. For example, the SmartMat has thousands of sensors to monitor your balance, alignment and flexibility during yoga or pilates. It connects to an app that gives you an analysis of your performance after each session.
Bionic limbs and exoskeletons are enabling new options for rehabilitation and sport-specific training. Devices like the EksoGT robotic exoskeleton, which helps people with lower limb paralysis walk again, are being adapted for fitness. Exoskeletons could provide resistance for strength training or help athletes improve skills like speed and jumping power.
Smart dumbbells can automatically adjust the weight between sets. The JaxJox DumbbellConnect set communicates with an app to digitally change the weight from 5 to 50 pounds in under a second. The app also tracks your workout stats and progress.
Wearable resistance bands provide a gym-quality workout at home. Bands like the X3 Bar band and Tonal resistance bands connect to digital weight machines that offer up to 200 pounds of electronically-controlled resistance for exercises like rows, chest presses, and squats. The machines analyze your performance and modify the workouts to match your needs.
Recovery and muscle therapy devices are leveraging technology to relieve pain and improve flexibility. Percussive massagers like the Theragun use powerful vibrations to relieve muscle tightness and soreness. Electrical muscle stimulators such as PowerDot send targeted pulses to muscles to help them recover after intense activity. Flexibility tools such as the GO Stretch provide guided stretching programs based on your needs and range of motion.
Smart boxing gloves can sense the speed and power of your punches. Products like the Hykso and StrikeTec gloves contain motion sensors and impact force detectors to track metrics like punch count, speed, volume and type. The data is synced to an app so you can review your boxing workout stats and progress over time. Some models also offer training programs and video tutorials to help improve your skills.