features
fitness-kit.net: Product innovations
Lauren Heath-Jones rounds up the products and services launched at FIBO 2019
Keepme, a new AI tool for health clubs, is set to increase member retention for gyms.
It provides an intelligence-based approach to member-retention and works by analysing individual member data. That data is then applied to an algorithm which generates a score showing the member’s risk of leaving.
The algorithm is capable of identifying patterns of behaviour which correlate with membership exits, and is designed to provide operators with in-depth and actionable insights, enabling them to re-engage the member to prevent the loss.
Stats published by IHRSA show that member subscriptions generate more than 80 per cent of the fitness industry’s revenue, reportedly worth £68bn.
With annual membership retention at less than 60 per cent it is vital that clubs have retention strategies in place.
Ian Mullane, Keepme founder, says: “Membership retention is one of the most resource -intensive and time consuming to manage. That’s why we’ve designed the Keepme tool – to revolutionise the approach to keeping customers.”
fitness-kit.net keyword: KEEPME
RecoveRing, a South-Korean company specialising in fitness education and products, has created a tool, also called RecoveRing, to help relax the muscles, improve balance and increase range of motion. An archery training tool, the RecoveRing is essentially a moulded wooden hoop featuring a number of curves and edges that can be used for multiple purposes, each relating to a different stage in archery.
Pulling relieves tension in the muscles and improves circulation, while holding can enhance range of motion and improve strength and mobility. Releasing reduces muscle pain and fatigue. It can also be used in massage to aid muscle recovery following a workout.
Additionally, the company, which was founded by Su-Mi Kim in 2009, has developed an education programme to teach users how to get the most out of the RecoveRing.
Kim says: “We believe that fitness equipment must be accompanied by education, so we didn’t launch the product until the system was fully developed and we strive to educate experts and general users through the content we create,” she adds.
fitness-kit.net keyword: RECOVERING
Jordan Fitness, a UK-based supplier of fitness equipment, has launched its new HIIT Bench, a multi-use workout bench which serves as a functional workout training station, weight bench, plyo box and storage unit.
As a standard, each bench is capable of storing five sets of dumbbells, two kettlebells, a medicine ball and smaller items, such as skipping ropes, power bands and aerobic resistance bands.
Designed and made in the UK, the HIIT Bench is as solution for smaller boutique gyms and studios, where space is at a premium, but can also be used in larger gyms and workout spaces.
The HIIT Bench is also customisable, giving operators the opportunity to add their logo and select the colour they want.
Neil Jordan, founder and chair of Jordan Fitness, says: “We wanted to create something really special using local British manufacturers.
“With our gyms and franchise directors demanding storage solutions and unique programming for their clubs, the opportunity to bring the two together just made sense.”
fitness-kit.net keyword: JORDAN FITNESS
Firstbeat, a Finnish company specialising in performance analytics, has developed the Firstbeat Lifestyle Assessment, which uses a Heart Rate Variability (HRV) – the time interval in milliseconds between consecutive heartbeats – to offer participants a snapshot of their stress reactions and help them to manage stress recovery.
Participants wear a HRV monitoring device which, over the course of three days, measures their stress reactions, physical activity levels, daytime recovery and sleep patterns. A comprehensive report, delivered by a consultant, gives users a clear idea of how they can improve their stress-recovery balance.
Understanding their HRV gives participants an insight into the way their body functions, and how it reacts to everyday life. Firstbeat’s assessment uses this information to map stress, recovery and exercise performance. A report based on these findings is delivered during a consultation with a Firstbeat Assessor. Quarterly retests are recommended to track progress.
The test has recently become available in the UK, with organisations such as the NHS adopting it to help reduce stress levels in their staff.
Toby Murray, director of Wellness Services at Firstbeat UK, says: “The key to reducing stress and improving general wellbeing lies in understanding how your body reacts to certain triggers. By measuring HRV, our technology gives a breakdown of the effects of daily activities on the body, providing an overall lifestyle assessment of general wellbeing.”
“Once you can physically see the visual impact of these stressors, you can put in place measures to tackle stress and keep your mind and body functioning as best as possible to achieve optimum health,” Murray adds.
fitness-kit.net keyword: FIRSTBEAT
