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Roger Yao

Fitness Equipment Industry News Weekly - 2024W19

Weekly Fitness Equipment Industry Report

fitness equipment brands

1. Kabata Secures $5 Million for AI-Powered Smart Dumbbells


Kabata, a fitness platform, has raised $5 million in seed funding to further develop its AI-driven smart dumbbells. These adjustable dumbbells, priced at $799, are now available for pre-order and will ship this fall. The weights range from 5 to 60 pounds and use AI to count reps, analyze form, and adjust weight based on user needs. The dumbbells feature patent-pending tactile technology that provides feedback through vibrations and pulses, helping users correct their posture and optimize their workouts. Additionally, the velocity-based training function monitors training quality and alerts users to potential fatigue and injury risks. CEO and co-founder Kareem Aly highlights the growing interest in strength training and the accessibility of Kabata's smart dumbbells for beginners. Upon logging into the platform, new users complete a basic training session, and the app generates a six-week personalized workout plan, incorporating self-guided and coach-led exercises, with real-time tracking of reps, time under tension, speed, power, and calories. Over the initial weeks, the AI adjusts the recommendations and weight increments based on the user's workout data.


2. F45 and Hyrox Partner to Offer Functional Training Classes


F45 Training and Hyrox, innovators in the functional training space, have signed a two-year agreement making F45 the official training partner for Hyrox. This partnership will bring Hyrox training to F45 studios worldwide (excluding Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore), allowing members to access Hyrox's signature training weekly. F45 members can also join the exclusive "Hyrox x F45 Training Run Club" and receive early registration for competitions. F45 CEO Tom Dowd sees this partnership as a perfect blend of F45's high-intensity interval training and Hyrox's fitness competition approach. Launched in 2017, Hyrox has rapidly expanded, with events in over 60 cities worldwide, and plans to debut in Canada this October. The collaboration with F45 is expected to enhance Hyrox's momentum, especially as its Google searches and social media presence have seen significant growth.


3. Fitbit Introduces Gamified Fitness Watch for Kids


Fitbit has launched the Ace LTE, a new fitness smartwatch for children aged 7 and up, priced at $229.95. The device encourages physical activity through gamified rewards, where more activity unlocks additional playtime for interactive 3D games. The watch uses a Google Research team-developed movement algorithm to track various activities and celebrates daily movement goals. Fitbit Ace LTE features parental controls, ensuring that only parents can access their child's location and activity data, which is deleted after 24 hours. The watch includes customizable characters and environments, with future plans to add a Tap to Pay option for kids. Available for pre-order now, the Ace LTE will be sold through the Google Store and Amazon starting June 5.


4. Alo Moves Launches VR Fitness App for Meta Quest 3


Alo Moves, the digital arm of Alo Yoga, is launching a VR fitness app for Meta Quest 3, featuring yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes. Developed in partnership with Magnopus, the app includes 3D-captured coaches and immersive settings. Users can interact with instructors from various angles and enjoy supernatural environments like ocean and mountain scenes. Classes, ranging from five to 25 minutes, are led by renowned instructors and will be available later this year. An Alo Moves membership costs $12.99 per month or $129 per year, granting access to content on smartphones and tablets. The app aims to attract the 80% of Americans who don't exercise regularly by offering engaging and emotionally uplifting fitness experiences.


5. 


Johnson Health Tech Retail, Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Johnson Health Tech, has acquired the BowFlex®, Schwinn® Fitness, and JRNY® digital fitness platform in April. Now, this acquisition enhances Johnson's consumer business globally, adding to its portfolio of residential and commercial fitness brands like Matrix, Horizon, and Vision. Johnson stated on its official website recently that the new additions include BowFlex's innovative home gym equipment, Schwinn's indoor cycling solutions, and the JRNY digital platform, which offers personalized workouts and streaming entertainment. These acquisitions are expected to strengthen Johnson's market position and provide consumers with a broader range of home fitness options. BowFlex and Schwinn products are available on their respective websites and select retailers, while new JRNY members can start a free trial through the app stores.


6. EXOS Adds Wattbike to Its Supplier List


Wattbike has been named an official supplier for EXOS, a leader in human performance and corporate wellness solutions. This agreement marks Wattbike's first direct partnership with a U.S. operator, expanding its presence in the American market. EXOS, known for its holistic, results-driven approach to health, serves Fortune 100 companies, military operators, elite sports teams, and world champions. Wattbike's inclusion in EXOS's supplier list aligns with both companies' goals of enhancing performance at all levels. This partnership is expected to drive further growth for Wattbike in the U.S. and reinforce its reputation as a trusted performance training tool.


By Roger Yao

2024-6-4


Roger Yao has been working on product development, quality control and sourcing management in fitness equipment and mechanical products for 20 years. With technical background, manufacturing know-how and wide contact with Chinese manufacturers, I help customers to develop  unique products with good quality in China.   

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