I think pretty much everyone is in agreement that the year 2020 hasn’t been kind to us. It’s brought us pandemics, wildfires and hurricanes, just to name a few of the disasters we’ve faced as a species over the last 9 months.
One problem that may be a little more on an individual basis is the matter of staying in shape.
When you’re stuck in your home during a quarantine, keeping fit is certainly a challenge. For those of us whom fitness makes up a large part of our lives, that is a major concern.
That’s why today I’m going to talk to you about the new wave of digital fitness technology that’s sweeping the market and may just be the answer to your workout prayers.
Why Are Digital Fitness Trends Becoming So Popular
With every passing day, the world is becoming a more digital, online friendly place. Everything from playing games and shopping, to how you make a living is moving online and it makes sense that fitness would follow suit.
In an age when people are on the go more than ever, it can be hard to find time to keep in shape.
The digital market is a perfect solution to this problem, as not only does it enable you to train from home, at a time that suits you, but it also provides you with an atmosphere and encouragement that would otherwise be missing. This is what often makes traditional home workouts such a drag and ends up hurting your motivation.
Consumer Expectations
When you can talk to people on the other side of the world, in crystal clear video and operate entire companies all on your smartphone, it’s understandable that the expectations in any digital market are fairly high.
When it comes to fitness, people will have their own needs and wants, based on their goals. That said, there will be certain criteria everyone moving into the digital world will expect, such as:
- To get the same standard of workout you could achieve in a gym
- To be given motivation
- To have enough variety to keep things exciting
- To be kept accountable
- To feel they have a high-quality product, that is good value for money
While these are quite lofty goals, there is nothing that would be considered unreasonable when looking at what a piece of fitness equipment should provide.
With that being said, let’s have a look at some of the top options available right now and see how they measure up.
1. Tonal
We’ll start at the top and begin by looking at the most complete piece of digital fitness equipment on the market, Tonal.
Billed as “An entire gym. In your home.”, the closest available comparison to what you would find in a gym would be a cross cable machine. Only here, it is more compact and the resistance is produced digitally, as opposed to having huge stacks of weight on either side.
As with a traditional cable machine, it is incredibly versatile, allowing you to hit almost every part of your body. It comes with a built-in, touch screen computer to motivate you and choose workouts, while it learns about your body and adapts accordingly.
Their slogan of “both your personal gym and your personal trainer” is fairly accurate, as combining its 200lbs of resistance with the computers knowledge makes it an incredibly effective tool.
The only prohibitive aspect for Tonal may be the price, as it certainly doesn’t come cheap but I guess, as they say, you get what you pay for.
2. Hydrow Rower
When it comes to cardio workouts, there simply isn’t anything more effective than a rowing machine. The calories burnt and muscles engaged (86%) by rowing almost double what you would get from a bike or treadmill.
The compact nature of the equipment makes it even more beneficial for the home workout market.
While all rowers are similarly effective, the digital features take this particular model up a level.
Its computer-controlled drag system claims to be the closest equivalent to real rowing available. That, combined with the various beautiful locations you can select on the screen, allow you to truly feel like you’re rowing wherever your heart desires.
Alternately, it also comes equipped with an array of life and on-demand classes, so if you just want to get in and get out, it’s got you covered there too. To learn more about the Hydrow Rower, check out this in-depth guide from startrowing.com.
3. Peleton Bike
To look at, the Peleton Bike may seem like an ordinary stationary bike, albeit a particularly nice one. If you were to simply use the bike itself, I suppose that could, technically, be true.
It’s fully adjustable to make it accessible for all users and its compact design allows it to fit comfortably in even the smallest spaces you have available.
The built-in computer is what makes this a different animal altogether.
You can live stream other users in real-time on the 22 inch HD touchscreen to feel like you’re out riding together.
There is also a diverse range of classes, both live and pre-recorded, with experienced instructors available to choose from. They will help motivate you and push you to achieve your goals.
If you would prefer an individual ride there is also a range of challenges and training programs for you to undertake, which provide badges for you to proudly display based on your achievements.
4. Peleton Treadmill
If you were looking at the bike and liked all its selling points, but you’re more of a treadmill person, then you’re in luck.
The Peleton Treadmill comes with all the same digital features as the bike, so you can immerse yourself, regardless of whether you prefer to run or cycle.
As far as the physical aspects go, it is top of the range.
One of the main concerns people have regarding treadmills is the constant impact involved with running. Thankfully, the shock-absorbing belt will soften the blow of that issue.
Combine that with its easily adjustable knobs and built-in, 20-watt soundbar and you’ll be getting lost in your run in no time.
5. Fightclub
A bit of a different option to the rest on this list, Fightclub brings the growing trend of MMA gyms right into your front room.
Skilled instructors guide you through a variety of intense routines, utilizing boxing, plyometrics, and bodyweight exercises in fast-paced interval sessions.
The built-in punch trackers on the equipment provide accurate feedback on things such as your speed and power to help fuel your drive.
This is certainly a unique option in this rapidly emerging market and with a monthly subscription service, there is minimal risk to giving it a try.
Future Of Virtual Fitness
As with any new boom, the initial options available won’t come cheap and will be seen as luxury items. As their popularity and demand grow, more competitors will arrive and prices will start to come down, making them much more accessible for users without such a big budget.
There’s no doubt that the market share for fitness equipment will be eaten into by the digital options in the coming years, the only real question is just how fast it does it.
Conclusion
With the convenience of training at home and all the benefits of group or personal training sessions built-in, digital fitness is a great option for those with busy lifestyles.
It may be a bit daunting for the less techy people out there, but considering you’re reading this article online, I’m guessing you don’t have to worry about that.
Currently a luxury, it will soon be adopted by the masses, so why not give it a try and be a trendsetter in the fitness world. That way, you’ll be ready for anything life, or 2020, can throw at you.
This post has been sponsored by The Speed Project
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