01 March 2021 | Annabel Hudson
Considering the world has spent the last year in and out of lockdowns amid COVID-19, it isn’t surprising that technology is finding its way into many people’s fitness routines. Throughout the pandemic, there has been an incredible shift in consumer mindsets: people have become much more health and well-being conscious, which has ultimately led to a mass increase in curiosity regarding fitness, especially fitness technology.
Currently, the most-used fitness technology ranges from wearable technology and apps to digital fitness platforms and equipment. Although there is a novelty factor related to these new advances, the convenience they bring the consumer is incomparable. Let’s take a look at the latest fitness technology trends and find out what they mean for consumers.
Fitness Apps
Fitness apps have never been more critical than they have been this past year. The World Economic Forumexplained that fitness app downloads grew by almost 50% within the first half of 2020. This enormous increase just shows how popular home-workouts and home fitness has become. Whether you want a subscription-based app or a free one, there are so many options available. Some great fitness app options to get you up and moving while at home, include the Nike Training Club (Android, iOS: Free) and PEAR Personal Fitness Coach (Android, iOS: Free)
Home Gym Equipment
Research and Markets reported that the home gym equipment market is expected to grow at a CAGR (can we explain this acronym please? I usually include the full term, followed by the acronym in brackets after which it can be used throughout the article) of close to 9% by revenue from 2019-2025. The market is growing rapidly and witnessing the launch of new fitness devices, are technologically innovative and digitally advanced. KettlebellConnect by JAXJOX is a great example of this, it is a smart kettle bell which has multiple weight options. Its smart stacking system allows users to lock on added weights in a number of seconds, making it time and space efficient! The JAXJOX range also includes a Dumbbell and Foam Roller Connect.
Fitness Trackers
By the end of 2021, it is predicted that smartwatches will generate over 27 billion U.S. dollars in end-user spending, and the overall wearable device market will reach nearly 63 billion U.S. dollars by 2021. Fitness trackers are no longer a fashion accessary or fitness fad, they now provide very valuable data for those who are serious about their fitness progress and developments, and there really is an option out there for everyone. Apple has added an electrocardiogram (ECG) function to their Apple Watch, allowing users to have a detailed analysis of their heart health. Meanwhile, Fitbit works with more advanced heart rate sensors that uses algorithms which provide users with insights into their heart while giving instantaneous feedback allowing users to make the most of every workout.
Machine Technology
Prior to COVID-19, smart technology was making it its way into gyms and when gyms began to close consumers started to integrate machine technology into their home workouts. A great example of this is Peloton bikes, which provide consumers with an at-home fitness experience which matches that of an in-class experience. Peloton equips stationary bikes and treadmills with monitors that consumers can use from the comfort of their own home. The monitors stream live and on-demand workouts and offer users unique options centred on their personal preferences. Users also have the incredible opportunity to sync their workouts with global leader boards – adding a fun element of competition to their work out!
Here at Pogo, we have developed a huge amount of app knowledge over the years. If you ever have questions regarding your favourite fitness apps, contact us and we would be happy to assist you.