Just when you thought you knew it all, technology for fitness tracking raises the bar with smarter and better wearables. Following are just a few of the more notable options now trending for smart fitness fashion.
MBody Smart Shorts by Myontec: These 3D elastic compression shorts read and report information on muscle load, heart rate data, cadence, speed and distance. Designed for cyclists, duathletes and triathletes, MCell smart measuring tech delivers stats via bluetooth to the MBody Live app on your iOs or Android smart device. Priced at $885 a pair, let’s hope they are washable, because you probably won’t want to buy a spare pair.
LINX Smart Bicycle Helmet by Coros: Wirelessly connect your helmet to your smartphone to listen to music, make and accept phone calls, talk to fellow riders, and keep abreast of navigation and ride data through open-ear Bone Conduction Technology. The helmet is equipped with a precision wind-resistant microphone for clear communication, perfect for commuters who need to stay in touch. At only $200, this helmet may be well worth the investment.
Apple iWatch (Series 4): Probably the best fitness tracker on the market, especially when you consider its many other functions, the Series 4 Apple Watch is a worthwhile investment at just $399. The device is completely waterproof up to 50 m, perfect for swimmers. With a built in GPS, brighter display and a plethora of fitness tracking tools, Apple leaves its competitors in the dust with this iteration of the iWatch.
Zepp Digital Sports Training Device: OK, so this is not technically a wearable, but it does attach to your sports equipment (tennis racquet, baseball bat, golf club or soccer calf sleeve) to give you stats and feedback on your performance, along with video of each kick or swing. At only $99.99, this device may be worth it for anyone working to step up their game.
TUNE Smart Insoles by Kinematix: Place these high-tech insoles beneath your regular running shoe insoles, and embedded sensors will transmit data on your running technique and performance to your smart device. In addition to working with your GPS to track speed, pace and distance, TUNE monitors both feet, measuring ground contact time and heel contact time, helping you to improve running efficiency and reduce injury risk. Available for $199, devoted runners may find the device well worth the price.
Whether quantifying your workouts correlates with improved health, performance or weight loss remains to be seen, but wearable fitness tech will be on the scene for years to come, for those willing to pay the price.
Resources
Whether you are training the next American Ninja Warrior or doing balance training with older adults, the fundamental principle of fitness are foundational to safety and results. Staying abreast of trends and new research in sports and exercise is your responsibility as a fitness professional. Get certified with Personal Fitness Trainer, Older Adult Fitness Specialist, Lifestyle Fitness Coach, or Youth Fitness. Then back up your knowledge with continuing education. Extreme training calls for extreme knowledge, and W.I.T.S. has the courses you need to stay informed.