From TV sets on every machine and wall to weekend warriors strapped up with heart rate monitors and pulse oximeters, these recent tech advancements are a far cry from the days of leotards and ankle warmers. Like it or not, fitness technology has shaped our gym ecosystems in a significant way — and you can bet it will continue to be a powerful architect.
Welcome to the Jungle
The gym ecosystem — or gymcosystem (consider it a work in progress) — is the total experience a gym-goer is exposed to when at a fitness facility. It can be boiled down to a combination of the facility and equipment you interact with, the services you receive, and the relationships you build.
Unsurprisingly, the gymcosystem can play a major role in an individual's attitudes surrounding health and fitness. Technology has transformed the gym from a place to simply get your sweat on to a data-heavy, entertainment experience through the introduction of smart equipment, portable fitness tracking tools, and virtual coaching options.
It's Not All Sunshine and Rainbows
The technology avalanche — call it a "technolanche" — has created a tale of two gyms, so to speak. While technology can simplify fitness routines through automated guidance and customizable workouts, it can also be intimidating for individuals who are not tech-savvy. So what's the solution? For some, it may be education on how to use the tech; for others, it may be avoiding it altogether.
Striking a balance between staying on the cutting edge of tech without alienating skeptics remains a challenge for any fitness facility.
Tech for Accessibility and Recovery
Fitness tech has made an inarguably positive impact in the arenas of accessibility for those with disabilities, those recovering from injury, and those looking to speed up their recovery between workouts. To combat inflammation and muscle soreness, tools like compression garments, massage devices, and cryotherapy have all shown effectiveness of varying degrees, prompting faster healing and reducing the risk of injuries.
Not All Fitness Takes Place in a Gym
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are more at risk of adverse health effects due to physical inactivity, due in part to a lack of resources or necessary equipment in local gyms. The use of virtual reality exercise games is an example of tech intervention that can meaningfully support these individuals' health and fitness.
To Infinity and Beyond
Technologically speaking, in the next 20 years, gyms will most likely settle somewhere between a holographic AI fitness instructor and a full Terminator scenario. But if gym owners want to continue to grow their membership, they should integrate tech in an immersive, fun, and inclusive manner.
By Brendan Rolfe
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning a new fitness program or supplement routine.