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FIBO launches: fitness-kit.net special
We round up some of the new product launches from this year’s FIBO, which took place in Cologne, Germany, in April
Training trinity
Among Matrix Fitness’ launches at FIBO was the Connexus Series – a functional training system, available wall-mounted or free-standing, that accommodates a wide range of accessories and training modalities.
Maintaining the functional theme was the new In-Trinity incline training platform. This can be used independently for group training or integrated into existing yoga or martial arts programmes. Matrix also introduced In-Trinity programming, with imaginative movements and sequences intended to increase range of motion and breathe new life into traditional practices.
Matrix also debuted the T3xh treadmill, designed for therapeutic settings (active ageing and PT studios) based on research among users, facility owners, PTs and service providers. T3xh features a slow start-up speed, reverse operation, simplified touchscreen and low step-on height, with extended handrails for enhanced user security.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Matrix Fitness
Taking the stage
A new line of indoor cycling bikes – the SC Series – has been unveiled by Stages Cycling. A brand new company and brand, Stages Indoor Cycling has launched two models: the flagship SC3, which features the ‘Stages Power’ power measurement system; and the SC2, which is the same in all respects but does not include this system.
The SC Series bikes feature SprintShift, a dual-action resistance adjustment that pairs a traditional micro-adjust dial with a three-position macro-adjust lever. This allows for large, consistent jumps in resistance for intervals and rest. The SprintShift lever FitLoc replaces the standard twist-to-lock pop-pin height adjustments with a new cam-operated pop-pin, allowing fit adjustments for height to be made more rapidly.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Stages Cycling
Nordic workout
ThoraxTrainer is a new full-body workout machine that imitates cross-country skiing – described as the world’s toughest sport.
The machine activates all the major muscle groups, simultaneously testing strength, core and endurance, with up to 1,500 calories burned per hour. It’s ideal for high-intensity interval training, as heart rates can be rapidly elevated.
More than 50 exercises are possible on the ThoraxTrainer, so it can be used as the cornerstone of any training regime, no matter what sport the user is involved in.
fitness-kit.net keyword: ThoraxTrainer
Realistic rowing experience
The Life Fitness Row GX Trainer is a rowing machine that gives exercisers the feeling of a smooth, natural rowing motion for a challenging full-body workout.
Designed with a patented fluid technology resistance system, the Row Trainer allows each user to feel, hear and see water churn in the tank, creating an engaging rowing experience. Its adjustable resistance design also allows the machine to adapt to an individual’s fitness level.
The portable design makes it easy for the rower to be repositioned throughout the facility for individual workouts, or small group training sessions.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Life Fitness
Smart evolution
VibroGym Evolution (VG Evo) comes with smart applications and an upper-body training device. Training software is embedded in the touchscreen display of the vibration training machine, which provides hundreds of videos and exercise choices for every fitness level. Meanwhile, newly developed VG Vibrating Handgrips offer an upper-body workout; these can also be detached and used independently as vibrating dumbbells, on or off the machine.
Integrated Cardio Colour Control software accurately monitors training intensity, and the information can be displayed in colour on-screen when using a Bluetooth heart belt.
VG Evo is built entirely from precision cast aluminium and is distributed in the UK by React Fitness.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Vibrogym
Strength with a spark
Cybex International’s new 21-piece line of selectorised strength equipment is called Prestige Strength VRS. Durable and biomechanically correct, it’s designed to offer a premium strength option for facilities seeking a versatile, user-friendly solution for ‘walk up and work out’ users.
In the cardio category, Cybex introduced the SPARC Trainer to meet the soaring popularity of HIIT. It’s been created to deliver five benefits in four minutes: burn calories, strengthen and shape the lower body, increase stamina, boost strength, and enhance endurance.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Cybex
Total tracking
PulseMove is a digital fitness tracker designed to simplify activity data capture for members and operators. It comprises an in-gym kiosk, website and mobile app, all of which allows member data to be collected both in and outside the gym and synced in real time across all devices.
The in-gym kiosk gives members access to a virtual personal trainer who plans their workout and automatically sets up each machine upon insertion of a membership card. Detailed activity reports are offered.
The mobile app is available on Android and iOS and provides an easy method of recording activity on the go. The app includes real-time GPS tracking and mapping and allows the user to monitor fitness data, set personal goals, and share data on social media.
Finally, the PulseMove website offers an additional means of activity tracking, as well as access to detailed reports.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Pulse Fitness
Anchored resistance
A new line of training accessories has been launched by Pavigym, adding more options to its functional zone circuit.
The Pavigym Anchor is designed to work with elastic tubes and offers multiple possibilities to train all types of movements with additional resistance. Pavigym is also offering a range of different exercises with Anchor for its functional zone markings. These are classified by fitness level and physical ability, and can be found via the Functional Zone app, which is available in the Apple Store.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Pavigym
Activity report
Precor’s Preva Exerciser Activity Report provides a new way to gain visibility into member activity on cardio equipment.
Located on the Preva Business Suite dashboard, the report offers detailed information about members’ equipment usage, patterns and preferences – data which health club operators can use to deliver both personalised class and service recommendations.
Activity is displayed by exerciser, day, time and cardio use, and Exerciser Activity Report also identifies who has set a weekly workout goal. Data can also be used to support competitions that measure workout days, distance travelled or total calories burned.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Precor
Turbo power
Star Trac launched its Turbo Trainer Upper Body Ergometer at FIBO, which is built using the same resistance engine as the company’s Turbo Trainer total body cycle. The fan-based resistance design generates low wattage resistance at low RPM and high wattage output at high RPM, making it ideal for all fitness levels ranging from rehab to fitness to sports performance.
Star Trac also collaborated with Spinning to launch a new belt-drive system. Fusion Drive is the company’s first integrated system that uses advanced technologies to achieve a totally natural road-bike feel. The system features an ultra-durable poly-V isoprene belt, a bespoke tensioning system, and the real-road feel of a perimeter-weighted flywheel.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Star Trac
Super-size smartphone
A striking, larger than life-size display in the shape of a smartphone, FunXtion Interactive has been designed to make fitness fun.
It can be set up in exercise rooms and offers a range of applications. Using a wristband, customers can automatically log in to the ‘smartphone’ – the FunXtion Experience Station – to track their fitness progress. It also offers a virtual trainer, plus programmes for workouts and virtual classes. Fun elements such as leaderboards enable users to compare their performance with others. A complementary app can be installed on customers’ own smartphones.
Dutch company Funxtion, founded by Ernst de Neef and Mendel Witzenhausen, is now seeking to roll the device out globally, having launched it at FIBO.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Funxtion
Box clever
Escape Fitness has expanded its Octagon range of products, with the latest addition being the Octagon BOX – a dedicated cross-training station aimed at those serious about lifting and CrossFit. It can be used for squats, bench presses, bodyweight exercises and wall balls.
Both a basic (Box) and advanced version (Wod Box) are available, and several Wod Boxes can be joined together to create an area for several people to work out at once. The Wod Box also features weight training and dipping stations, pull-up bars and the option to attach battle ropes and torso trainers.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Escape Fitness
Balanced solution
Performance Health Systems showcased Aevum, the combined bioDensity and Power Plate offering, and Power Plate my7 with Care Assist software – designed as a complete strength and balance solution for the active ageing market. Aevum offers a non-pharmaceutical, non-invasive alternative for bone and joint health.
Drawing on the science behind a body’s natural response to vibration, Power Plate enhances motor unit recruitment and synchronisation, resulting in increased force production and efficiency of movement. Power Plate creates 25–50 vibrations per second, rapidly triggering nerve and muscle communication, improving muscle memory and awakening the body to move dynamically.
The bioDensity system safely aids in increasing bone density and joint integrity by applying optimal biomechanics for the self-compression of bone mass to stimulate the body’s natural bone generation process.
fitness-kit.net keyword: Performance Health
