Internet of Things (IoT) 101
Imagine a world with no more connected devices. Where weâve lost control over our most vital items. That dark world is already here â and itâs called the Internet of Things (IoT). The IoT makes every product smart â each device that connects to the web filled with sensors and chips, gathering copious amounts of data on their ownerâs behavior and surroundings.
Events such as the COVID-19 outbreak have demonstrated the importance of Internet of Things technology for gyms and fitness centers. According to Forbes, the pandemic has shifted customers' attention to digital fitness alternatives. As a result, everyone, including newly reopened fitness centers, is paying closer attention to IoT, VR/AR, AI/ML, and other related technologies.
For the time being, the fundamentals of IoT in sports and fitness are well understood, which you will require a system of connected gear and software. In fitness, we're seeing more and more devices and wearables that use the Internet of Things (IoT) to make exercise easier and more fun. Here are five particularly interesting IoT-driven fitness trends from the past year.
1. Tech-Enabled Group Fitness
The Internet of Things (IoT) has emerged as a critical enabler for group fitness. For example, group-focused gyms, clubs, or classes are increasingly utilizing battery-powered wireless sensors and gateways so that participants can see what everyone else is doing and instructors can better cater to the unique needs of each class and participant.
2. Immersive Exercise Experiences
Users can enjoy an immersive exercise experience from the comfort and safety of their own homes thanks to virtual reality augmentation. This is especially important during public health emergencies or when there isn't a gym nearby. Trainers can conduct classes using VR without the need for participants to be physically present. Because information is readily available in VR, it also allows for better online training. This is especially useful for beginners who are still working on perfecting their form and technique.
3. Shareable Tracking Data
Data tracking is important in fitness because it allows trainers and gym-goers to track their progress. There are many cases where gym members stop going to the gym centre because they are discouraged by their lack of progress. Tracking data that can be shared will also assist trainers in determining the best approach to take with a client. People want to share their exercise data with others for a variety of reasons, including competition, motivation, and accountability.
4. Smarter Sensors
On the market, numerous IoT devices provide health and fitness monitoring. Sensors are at the heart of any such gadget, and they're getting smarter all the time. A tiny chip can now collect and process massive amounts of data. Smart clothing, footwear, and exercise equipment such as wearable sensors on sports shoes become a reality as a result of this. They are embedded in smart wearables and transmit real-time data from sensors. However, sensors will only get better in the coming years, requiring less power, hardware, and infrastructure while providing more data and new insights. Nearly anything can be a part of a fitness IoT system.
5. Improved Nutrition Monitoring
By using a scale as an IoT device, it is possible to maintain high-quality, healthy lives. With this configuration, your smart fridge can order meals for you, eliminating the need to guess what to eat after a strenuous workout. The fridge can also tell you how much protein, carbs, and fat you should eat per day to maintain a healthy weight.
Bottom line
The future of fitness is bright, and it will be even brighter with the Internet of Things (IoT). Gyms can improve the user experience in a wearable environment by leveraging modern fitness apps. We can add value to the lives of gym clients thanks to IoT and software. As a result, the sports industry must be well-equipped to take full advantage of IoT technologies.