The integration of technology and exercise has made it possible for some people to master the art of working out. We keep seeing gyms become more advanced as the equipment they use constantly evolve, providing more versatility and efficiency. Technology isn’t only apparent in high-end gym equipment; whether it’s a sports app or a website, it can do wonders for both beginners and experts alike.
The possibilities are endless because technology keeps removing restrictions that people weren’t even aware of. From basic treadmills that allow you to run for miles in your place to high tech, smart bikes with built-in displays that can be programmed to stream beautiful sceneries for your workout, it’s hard not to notice how technology is revolutionizing exercise. The combination of innovative technology with common gym equipment can create marvels. Whether you’re looking to achieve your peak physical performance or simply stay in shape, combining technology with exercise will help you reach those targets in the most efficient ways.
Using Social Media for Motivation
People have been exercising in groups for hundreds of years, but nothing compares to how quickly social media can form groups. When you’re exercising with other motivated people, you’re bound to get fired up yourself. Whether you’re planning to run a marathon you just heard about on social media or try new exercises posted by trainers online, you can always depend on social media to help you broaden your social circle. There is no shortage of online groups and communities that help and support each other.
Video Games
Ironically, video games were constantly framed as the culprit that’s stopping children from leading an active and healthy lifestyle. Fortunately, the blame is being gradually reduced as technological advancements in the video games industry allowed it to evolve. There are countless consoles that support motion-tracking cameras and input, which means that players can finally become so physically involved in a video game that it can be considered an exercise.
Players can pick from numerous games to play, from golf to action shooters. Exercising suddenly became something fun; players are now able to enjoy short-term rewards from being physically active thanks to video games. It’s known that the hardest thing about exercising is maintaining a proper routine. Fortunately, playing a game to get your dose of exercise is so much easier than waking up an hour earlier to jog around the neighborhood.
Smartphones
It didn’t take long for smartphones to invade the exercise scene. Your little smartphone allows you to browse through thousands and thousands of exercise videos and applications. Most recent smartphones are equipped with motion-tracking sensors that allow you to keep track of many metrics in your exercises. Activity trackers can be bought separately, but most people would prefer to use their smartphones to save extra expenses. Built-in activity sensors are accurate enough to calculate how many steps you’ve taken to reach a certain destination.
A few manufacturers provide you with pre-installed fitness apps on your smartphone, but it’s always recommended to install apps created and designed by fitness professionals to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your exercises. Apps can utilize the activity trackers in your smartphone way better than the default built-in apps can. You’ll be able to install specialized apps for any type of exercise, from swimming to hiking. You can allow apps to provide you with notifications that can act as reminders to when you should exercise and for how long.
Heart-Rate Monitors
Seniors and people with heart conditions should never be careless when they exercise. It’s very important for people vulnerable to heart conditions to stay on the safe side while they’re exercising. Heart-rate monitors are becoming a vital tool that millions of people depend on to monitor their heart’s performance during exercise. Aside from providing safety to their users, heart-rate monitors can calculate energy and caloric expenditure with great accuracy. These monitors are not cumbersome or bulky; there are many different shapes and sizes that can suit any activity you’re planning to do.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality offers a new opportunity that can be used to enhance and change how you exercise forever. VR appeals to people who prefer to exercise properly from the comforts of their homes. What makes it a pretty effective tool is its infinite potential. People are able to digitally conjure any elements they’d like to use while exercising, whether it’s a boxing ring or a yoga-suitable environment. The main setback when it comes to VR is how pricey they can get, but as more people are becoming interested in this technology, prices are getting lower and new companies are joining the industry.
Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned veteran, combining technology with exercise can significantly increase the efficiency of your workouts. It’s not uncommon to be overwhelmed by the numerous options on the market, but as long as you take your time to find what works best for you, you’ll find the right high-tech equipment within your budget, and ultimately, you’ll start noticing great improvements in no time.