| Innovations | FIT Extra Indoor Group Cycling Data-Driven Cardio
Well-informed bikers work out more frequently and more rewardingly
Despite the economic downturn, fitness equipment manu- facturers have continued to study the market, invest in R&D, and design and introduce new products that do an even better job of helping clubs attract clients and members achieve results. Recently, one of their areas of focus has been data utilization.
“In terms of bikes and a host of other machines, we’re seeing dollars, increasingly, being poured into user interactivity, specifically in employing data feedback in a variety of valuable ways,” reports Doug Johns, the global marketing director for Precor, Inc., based in Woodinville, Washington. Many of the resulting innovations capitalize on the appeal of workout statistics, which boost usage, foster interaction, and keep exercisers engaged and motivated—all increasing member satisfaction and retention. “We believe data management is very important,” observes John
Post, the president of LeMond Fitness, Inc., also based in Woodinville. “Users can exercise smarter, and personal trainers can access their clients’ results more easily and modify their exercise routines accordingly.” LeMond, for instance, recently introduced the WKO Lite power-based training program on its g-force UT exercise bike, which allows users to record and download their workout results on a USB stick and plug them into the WKO software. This rider-to-trainer dynamic is more and more in evidence.
“Performance tracking and coaching is a fast-growing opportunity,” attests Elizabeth Held, a marketing representative for Mad Dogg Athletics, Inc., in Venice, California. “With this type of system, the rider is given detailed workout parameters based on their specific goals. They then enter certain personal information, which allows the system to accurately track and provide feedback on such things as cadence and energy expenditure, and also coach them on their performance.” The technology can cue the rider to speed up, or slow down, or
increase or reduce resistance, based on their individual goals. “It’s the equivalent of a trainer standing next to the client during the workout,” says Held. Data feedback can also be shared with others, facilitating
“networked fitness,” which opens up what might be a Pandora’s box of options. “As we consider the move toward networking, we’re becoming convinced that the possibilities of what equipment can do are much greater than what it should do,” observes Doug Durnford, Precor’s senior product manager. He notes that, while it’s feasible to build a piece of cardio equipment that would let users surf the Web and download e-mail, such features, “though attractive at first, might degrade the exercise and club experience.” —|
www.
ihrsa.org | SEPTEMBER 2010 | Club Business Internat ional 59
INDOOR GROUP CYCLING
AEROBICS AND FITNESS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 43
NEW Indoor Cycling
This one-day workshop is designed for current indoor-cycling instructors and those interested in teaching indoor group-cycling classes. The course focuses on how to create a dynamic, high-energy, indoor-cycling class for stu- dents at all levels. Participants will learn safe cycling practices, correct technique, proper alignment, and effective training principles to ensure sound training deci- sions. Training methods include cardio- vascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, body composition, and flexibility. The course includes two prac- tical training sessions filled with creative choreography. Continuing education units (CEUs) are offered to AFAA-certified professionals.
Manufacturer’s list price: $129.00
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