Barry’s has promoted Jonathan (JJ) Gantt to co-CEO to serve alongside Joey Gonzalez as the popular boutique fitness brand eyes domestic and international growth.

Gonzalez and Gantt will work collaboratively on strategic initiatives to drive growth. Gantt has been at Barry’s since 2018, first as chief financial officer and later as president. Barry’s characterizes the pair as a true “left brain/right brain” partnership, each leaning into their functions and departments of expertise  

“Over the past 6 years, JJ has been my partner through tremendous growth and through the survival of a global pandemic,” Gonzalez said. “Together, we invested in the systems and infrastructure to prepare us to emerge stronger than ever. I’m beyond excited to formalize this partnership with his new Co-CEO role and to continue professionalizing the business, while maintaining its entrepreneurial spirit and brand equity.”

Before joining the Barry’s corporate team in 2018, Gantt was first introduced to the HIIT brand as a client.

“Nearly a decade ago, I walked into the Barry’s Chelsea studio looking for the Best Workout in the World. Not only did I find what I was searching for, I also found a global fitness community that inspires me every day,” Gantt said. “I am incredibly excited to continue to partner with Joey and the entire Barry’s team in the pursuit of our vision to transform lives worldwide. See you in the Red Room!”

Barry’s also had a recent executive departure: Jenna Hauca, Barry’s vice president of digital, left the brand to take the chief marketing officer role at CrossFit. Hauca spent more than five years at Barry’s, where she led global marketing, and formerly worked at Generator Media + Analytics in New York. 

Domestic & International Expansion

Barry’s has been focusing on expansion. At the beginning of this year, the company operated 84 studios across 14 countries and recently announced additional studio locations in Israel, Bahrain, Barcelona, and Egypt. It’s also developing new territories in the Middle East, including the UAE, which has three operating studios, Qatar, Kuwait and Lebanon. 

In an interview with Athletech News last year, Gonzalez stated that he believed Barry’s could quadruple its current studio footprint in the U.S. before 2030, which would put it at around 200 domestic studios.

That expansion includes areas like Scottsdale, Arizona, which is likely indicative of Barry’s plans to branch out and open more studios outside of major U.S. markets.

Partnering With Top Brands

Barry’s has also been focusing its efforts on new partnerships. Starting this week, Barry’s and Oatly partnered to bring the beverage brand’s Unsweetened Oatmilk to Fuel Bar menus in Barry’s studios nationwide.

The oatmilk will be featured in a post-workout shake on Fuel Bar menus, called “That Shake with Oatly In It.” Barry’s members are invited to join weekly themed Oatly classes at all U.S. studios on Monday, March 25^th, where they will be rewarded with a complimentary post-class smoothie. The partnership began on Monday, March 18, and runs until April 22. 

The brand also recently added Ouai Haircare as its newest wellness partner. Ouai’s hair and body products are available in Barry’s locker rooms nationwide. This past fall, the fitness company partnered with Factor, a prepared meal delivery service, and Therabody to feature its recovery products in all U.S. fitness studios.

The post Barry’s Pivots to Co-CEO Model Amid Global Expansion appeared first on Athletech News.

Therabody is investing over $10 million in scientific research initiatives, forming a Scientific Advisory Board and partnering with the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the wellness tech brand announced.

The $10 million investment will be allocated toward conducting scientific and clinical research studies across various domains including beauty, wellness and athletic performance over the coming years. Therabody’s Scientific Advisory Board will also be comprised of four experts in their respective fields to guide research strategy, initiatives and product development.

The board is comprised of Dr. Pamela Peeke, a physician and scientist specializing in integrative medicine and women’s health; Dr. Daniel Giordano, a Doctor of Physical Therapy who focuses on performance health and longevity; Dr. Robin Thorpe, a global leader in recovery science; and Dr. Neera Nathan, a Harvard-trained dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon specializing in dermatologic surgery and laser medicine.

Together, the board will advise on research strategy, related initiatives and content, and co-develop new Therabody products related to their areas of expertise. 

“I am thrilled to welcome this caliber of scientific leadership to Therabody,” said Monty Sharma, president and CEO of Therabody. “Our Scientific Advisory Board, along with our significant investment in scientific research and partnerships, will ensure we remain at the forefront of our industry and dedicated to developing the most effective, scientifically validated products available today and in the future.”

Therabody x ACSM

Therabody is also committed to working with ACSM on the sponsorship and exhibition of new therapies at the ACSM Annual Meeting in May 2024. The organization is made up of over 40,000 physicians, scientists, educators and health fitness professionals, and is considered a leader in sports medicine and exercise science. 

Therabody has long been dedicated to scientific research, demonstrated by an extensive research portfolio with 21 scientific studies completed to date and an additional 26 in progress. Therabody Labs is the company’s in-house team of scientists and engineers to test and optimize their products. 

Expanding Access to Wellness

The new announcements come as Therabody has been focusing its efforts on expanding the accessibility of its products, including its new beauty line. Therabody released the TheraFace Vibration Mask, which is a light therapy mask clinically proven to reduce signs of aging. The mask is a complement to the TheraFace Pro, which has different attachments for various skin concerns, such as aging, acne, tension relief, and more.

Therabody founder and chief wellness officer Dr. Jason Wersland spoke with Athletech News last year about the new beauty line and the company’s mission to democratize access to wellness and beauty through its products.

Last year, the wellness tech brand also launched three new massage guns in a push to target everyday wellness consumers: the Theragun Relief, Theragun Sense and Theragun Pro Plus.

The post Therabody Pledges $10M to Scientific Research, Adds Advisors appeared first on Athletech News.

Reset by Therabody is the wellness tech brand’s in-person, experiential wellness hub, with locations across the United States including Los Angeles, Philadelphia, New York and Houston.

The whole-body wellness centers offer clients access to Therabody’s technology, guided by trained experts. Services range from 30 to 60 minutes and include offerings like stretching, percussive therapy, cryotherapy, and cupping. Clients can purchase services a la carte or through memberships.

Now, Therabody has launched Reset Rewards, a membership program that offers exclusive benefits and discounts, including on partner brands like Pressed Juicery, Momentous supplements and Stakt mats.

Athletech News spoke with with Shannon Cooke, vice president of retail at Therabody, to learn more about the new Reset program and how Therabody’s in-person experience drives value for the company and its customers.

“It was really important to us to pick brands that were on the same page as us from a wellness and ethos perspective,” Cooke says. “We wanted to have added value for our guests with our memberships and also give them easier access to self-care. So we partnered with a lot of brands with community health and wellness in mind. We’re very excited to have a high bar to stand shoulder to shoulder with the brands that we selected for the program.” 

In terms of the brand selection process, Cooke noted it was both national and local.

“Every single one of our resorts has access to our national brands,” she explains. “Because the local community is so important to us, each of the individual locations has different partnerships that are specific to its city. We have over 10 national brands that we’re working with right now. Then, every city has between five and seven that are local to their community.” 

The Importance of In-Person Experiences

As in-person experiences become more important than ever to many brands looking to forge connections with consumers, Cooke noted that Reset was the embodiment of a third-party ecosystem.

“We take all of the cutting-edge therapies and technologies that we create as a product and we bring them to life inside of these spaces,” she says. “We really want to make sure that health and wellness can benefit as many people as possible. There are big barriers to entry for a lot of the services and products that we provide, so creating this kind of warm, safe space for people to come in and try the products is a really important part of our ecosystem for the customer.”

For Therabody, Cooke noted there is also “a really beautiful, experiential brand marketing component to it. People can come in and ask questions, and touch and feel the brand.” 

Local Marketing Efforts

When asked about Reset’s biggest challenges and opportunities, Cooke noted that building authentic relationships with local communities is effort-intensive but integral to the brand’s strategy.

“On the ground, guerrilla-style connections are not scalable, but we take being in the community and working with the right groups very seriously,” she said. “But it is very important because those messages and allegiances in the community will show people that they have a place where they can go that represents who they are and where they’re coming from.” 

Therabody has a long-term vision to continue using Reset to bring new products to life for the consumer.

“It’s very exciting for me to look at the pipeline and think, ‘How can I bring this to life for the customer that comes into Reset?,'” Cooke says.

Therabody is hoping to create a space where consumers can step outside their comfort zone and learn more about new types of self-care.

“If we have made it more comfortable for someone to participate in cryotherapy, to use LED masks, to get closer to the effective science that we are promoting, then we have done our job,” Cooke adds. “Lowering that barrier to entry for self-care is incredibly important to Reset.” 

The post Therabody Embraces In-Person Wellness Experiences appeared first on Athletech News.

Ouai, the haircare and lifestyle brand founded by Jen Atkin, has forged an exclusive amenities partnership with Barry’s. The two-year tie-up will bring a collection of Ouai product offerings to Barry’s studios across the United States.

Beginning February 22^nd, members of the Barry’s community will have access to Ouai’s bestselling products, like the Detox Shampoo, Body Cleanser, and Medium Condition. The brand will also supply hand wash and hand lotion at Barry’s studios. For the partnership, Ouai also created its first Detox Face Cleanser made with glycolic acid to cleanse and exfoliate. 

“We love looking for new OUAIs (ways) for people to experience the brand, and getting into locker rooms felt perfect because it’s a time when people really luxuriate in feeling clean,” said Hannah Beals, chief brand officer at Oaui. “Barry’s is the ultimate fitness destination, and the perfect partner for us with an equally hyper-engaged community and premium brand experience.”

Some of the featured fragrances in the partnership include Dean Street, a blend of citrus fruits, magnolia, and amber, as well as Melrose Place, with rose, bergamot and lychee.

The Oaui products will be featured in Barry’s studios including upcoming openings across the country like Scottsdale, Arizona, Studio City, California, Newport Beach, California, and the brand’s new flagship studio in West Hollywood, where Barry’s first West Coast Ride x Lift studio space will be located.

“Given our commitment to sustainability as well as our desire to provide clients with the cleanest and most premium products, we’re confident that this partnership with Oaui will deliver on these brand promises,” said Joey Gonzalez, the Global CEO of Barry’s, noting that Atkin, who is also a Barry’s client, first introduced him to the haircare and lifestyle brand’s products.

“I can’t wait for Barry’s clients to experience these high-quality products and enjoy the best shower straight after the best workout in the world,” Gonzalez added.

Barry’s Invests in Premium Wellness

The tie-up with Ouai is far from Barry’s first partnership in the wellness space. This past fall, the fitness company partnered with Factor, a prepared meal delivery service, on a campaign called “Power Your Potential.” Barry’s members could also participate in Factor-themed classes and sign up for personalized nutrition sessions with Factor dieticians.

Barry’s also partnered with Therabody last year to put recovery stations featuring the Theragun Pro and Wave Roller devices in all of its U.S. fitness studios. Nocco also partnered with Barry’s earlier this year. The sugar-free and low-calorie beverages are available for sale in Barry’s studios nationwide. 

The post Barry’s Adds Ouai Haircare as Newest Wellness Partner appeared first on Athletech News.

In an escalating legal battle in the wellness tech industry, Therabody has filed a lawsuit against rival Hyperice for defamation, trade libel and related causes of action, the company announced. Therabody filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on Friday.

Therabody’s lawsuit is not one of intellectual property, but of defamation, injury to reputation and trade libel, which is the publication of a false statement of fact that results in monetary damages, and other related claims.

The wellness tech company alleges that Hyperice made defamatory statements to an athletics store that carries Therabody products, as well as at a trade show. Therabody also asserted false advertising and unfair competition in violation of the California Business and Professions Code, in addition to the common law claims of defamation and trade libel.

Wellness Tech Wars

Therabody’s defamation suit comes after Hyperice filed lawsuits for patent infringement against Therabody and several other brands earlier this year. Friday’s filing demonstrates that Therabody will go beyond merely defending itself in the patent infringement case.

“Dr. Jason Wersland invented the Theragun in February 2008. Therabody has always been a leader in wellness technology and has secured over 600 global patents,” said Therabody CEO Monty Sharma. “As a response to the statements that Hyperice made referring to us as imitators after it filed its lawsuit against us in January 2024, today we filed suit against them for defamation, trade libel and related causes of action.”

In a statement provided to Athletech News, Hyperice CEO Jim Huether said he believes the defamation suit is an attempt by Therabody to shift the focus away from the patent-infringement litigation involving the two brands.

“As we have previously stated, we firmly believe that almost all of Therabody’s percussion devices infringe on our IP, including the Theragun PRO, Theragun Sense, Theragun Elite, Theragun Prime, Theragun Mini, Theragun Relief, TheraFace PRO, and TheraFace LED,” Huether said. “We believe today’s actions by Therabody are a baseless attempt to shift the focus away from their infringing activity. We will continue to move aggressively against infringing parties to enforce and protect our IP.”

The massage gun market is valued at $542.6 million and will likely reach over $1 billion in the coming years. Earlier this year, Hyperice filed a suit against Therabody and other wellness tech companies for infringing U.S. Patent No. 11,857482, which claims technology dating back to 2013 that is used in products like the Hypervolt 2 and Hypervolt Go 2 massage guns.

In 2019 and early 2020, Therabody filed patent infringement lawsuits against Hyperice and Achedaway, which resulted in Achedaway agreeing to a cease and desist and Hyperice agreeing to stop selling one of its massage devices.  

This story has been updated to include comments from Hyperice CEO Jim Huether.

The post Therabody Sues Hyperice for Defamation in Latest Escalation appeared first on Athletech News.

Therabody has added Michael Giordano and Peter Noverr to its executive team as chief revenue officer and chief operations officer, respectively, as the wellness tech company gears up for what it calls “ambitious growth plans.”

Giordano has a background in consumer electronics and will drive Therabody’s market expansion, online and offline. Noverr has experience driving global supply chains and growth engines. 

Before Therabody, Giordano was chief commercial officer at Progressive Leasing, and spent 14 years at Samsung Electronics America. Noverr previously worked at The Better Being Co., where he was chief operating officer for three years. He also served as chief operating officer at Jenny Craig and was CEO and co-founder at Level Life Foods, a company that specializes in diabetes management products. 

“Mike and Peter bring years of experience, success, and outsized value creation in sales and operations across multiple industries, including Consumer electronics,” said Monty Sharma, CEO and president of Therabody. “We are excited to have them join our excellent Therabody team and supercharge the pursuit of our purpose.”

Therabody Eyes Consumer Wellness

As it gears up for more growth, Therabody will look to build on a big 2023. The wellness tech company unveiled several new products, including the Theragun Pro Plus, the Theragun Sense, and Theragun Relief, in the hopes of increasing product accessibility to new audiences and demographics.

“We’ve become so accustomed to living with pain and it doesn’t have to be that way,” Dr. Jason Wersland, founder and chief wellness officer of Therabody recently told Athletech News, teasing the company’s plans to release more wellness and beauty products. “We started with the pro athletes and have flipped the script to deliver the most effective and innovative therapies to everybody.”

Therabody also partnered with United Airlines to promote wellness travel. United customers flying via United Polaris international business class are provided a Therabody amenity kit with TheraFace eye serum, face spray, hand cream and cleansing towlette. In the United Polaris lounges, travelers will have access to Therabody products like the Lounger, Theragun and RecoveryAir JetBoots.

The post Therabody Adds C-Suite Execs in ‘Ambitious Growth’ Move appeared first on Athletech News.

The home stands as the epicenter of the wellness real estate market, which is poised to emerge as the number one growth leader across the entire wellness sector with a projected expansion to $887.5 billion by 2027, according to the latest trend forecast from The Global Wellness Summit (GWS).

As the saying goes, Home is where the heart is — but it’s now transforming into a cozy-yet–functional hub as consumers look to cultivate a wellness-inspired environment, largely supported by the shift to remote work, increased time spent at home and the popularity of home-based TikTok trends promoting home-based activities.

“The pandemic not only led to an increase in time spent at home but also heightened health awareness, motivating individuals to take greater control over their wellness,” according to GWS.

At-Home Wellness Products Proliferate

It would make sense that consumers, who are increasingly pivoting towards a more health–conscious lifestyle, are looking to invest in more than just wellness products and create an entire environment of health-supporting tools.

In addition to post-pandemic lifestyle changes, tech advancements have empowered consumers to monitor their health and partake in wellness practices in the comfort and privacy of their homes. From self-care such as the anti-aging TheraFace Mask, medical-grade home health systems, smart furnishings that respond in real-time to well-being preferences or sensory-enhanced designs, consumers now have an array of options to curate their own wellness space.

Functional furnishings also play a pivotal role in the wellness real estate space, with aesthetic pieces that serve fitness and wellness purposes. Ikea, a staple in the functional furniture sector, recently unveiled its first low-profile fitness and wellness collection for consumers and their families to squeeze in a quick workout without needing to invest in an entire home gym.

Beyond furnishings, soundscapes are no longer just background music but a path to wellness, using AI enhancements to give listeners relaxation, focus, or restful sleep.

Wellness-Focused Residences Are on the Rise

As the “2024 Global Wellness Trends” report points out, the pull towards wellness communities, such as Life Time Living, the residential arm of the luxury fitness and lifestyle operator, is also gaining popularity.

Noting Life Time Living’s Green Valley development in Las Vegas, which offers residences with personalized services such as meal plans and comprehensive 360 wellness programs, GWS sees the brand’s new longevity and weight-loss clinic, Miora, as “laying the groundwork” for such services to become integrated into residential services in the future.

GWS also spotlights The Well, a New York City-based luxury wellness club, as an example of what lies ahead for the wellness industry. As The Well expands into residential real estate in Miami, its apartments will tout diffused lighting, water filtration, HEPA air filtration systems, low-VOC paints, organic scents and even charged crystals within the building’s foundation. 

Cities and nations are joining the wellness movement, investing in developments prioritizing well-being. Saudi Arabia’s NEOM, expected to debut in 2025, plans to utilize a groundbreaking Digital Twinning system for the longevity of its residents.

“In the future, our homes will evolve into multifaceted ecosystems, merging advanced nanotechnology and empathetic architecture to create living spaces that actively enhance our health and well-being, reshaping how we interact with our environment on a fundamental level,” predicts GWS.

See the full GWS 2024 Global Wellness Trends report here.

The post Wellness Real Estate Is Booming – And Just Getting Started  appeared first on Athletech News.

Hyperice has filed 16 lawsuits in federal court against Sharper Image, Homedics, Ekrin Athletics and other retailers including CVS, Costco, Walgreens and Kohl’s related to the alleged infringement of Hyperice’s percussion massage technology. The relevant intellectual property, Hyperice’s U.S. Patent No. 11,857,482, claims technology dating to 2013 that’s used in products like the Hypervolt 2 and the Hypervolt Go 2 massage guns.

The new lawsuits, filed on Tuesday, come two weeks after Hyperice sued rival Therabody for allegedly infringing the same patent.

“The actions that we have taken today are one part of a larger legal strategy to protect our intellectual property rights,” said Jon Howell, general counsel at Hyperice. “We intend to take additional actions in the coming days and weeks to ensure that our innovative line of percussion massage guns is protected.”

In the lawsuits, Hyperice claims that several of the companies’ products, including the Sharper Image Powerboost line and Ekrin massage guns, infringe on Hyperice’s intellectual property. In the coming weeks, Hyperice says it intends to file additional lawsuits, up to 100 in total, against other sellers and retailers believed to have infringed on these patents. 

Earlier this month, Hyperice alleged that several of Therabody’s products, including the Theragun Elite, Theragun Pro, Theragun Prime and Theragun Sense, infringe on the same patent. 

“At Hyperice’s core, we develop innovative products and technologies to enhance recovery, performance, and longevity for consumers worldwide,” said Hyperice CEO Jim Huether. “For any company working to lead and grow a new and emerging market in the technology sector, the inventive process is extremely important. … There are hundreds of millions of dollars of massage guns sold every year in the U.S. alone, and we believe that a vast majority of these massage guns infringe this patent.”

“We will use aggressive legal actions against all infringers to reinstill credibility of the percussion market,” Huether added.

The massage gun market is substantial, valued at $542.6 million and is likely to reach over $1 billion in the coming years, according to one estimate. Intellectual property disputes in the space are common. In late 2019 and early 2020, Therabody filed patent infringement lawsuits against Hyperice and Achedaway. These lawsuits resulted in Achedaway agreeing to a cease and desist, and Hyperice agreeing to stop selling one of its massage devices. 

The post Hyperice Sues More Brands, Retailers Over Massage Gun Patent appeared first on Athletech News.

Hyperice has filed a lawsuit in federal court against Therabody, asserting that the company infringed its recently issued U.S. Patent No. 11,857,482. The patent claims technology dating to 2013, which is used in Hyperice products like its Hypervolt Go 2, Hypervolt 2 and Hypervolt 2 Pro massage guns.

In the lawsuit, filed Wednesday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware, Hyperice asserts that several Therabody products infringe on the patent, including Theragun Elite, Theragun Pro, Theragun Prime, Theragun Mini, Theragun Sense and TheraFace Pro. Hyperice said it intends to file more lawsuits in the coming weeks against other companies it believes infringed the patent.

“In 2015 Hyperice launched the Raptor, which at the time was the world’s most advanced percussion massage device. In 2018, when we launched the Hypervolt at a more consumer-friendly price point, our business accelerated rapidly – so much so that we began to see an extraordinary amount of Hypervolt knockoffs and imitators enter the market,” said Jim Huether, CEO of Hyperice. “As a company focused relentlessly on innovation and quality to deliver exceptional products to our consumers, we value ingenuity, and we protect our inventions by obtaining patents.”

“We will use the legal system aggressively to clean up the percussion market from imitators and knockoffs who we believe are using Hyperice’s IP in their devices,” Huether added.

Massage Gun Litigation

The massage gun market is substantial; it was valued at around $540 million in 2023 and is expected to grow to over $1 billion in the coming years. Intellectual property disputes in the space have been frequent. Hyperice and Therabody, in particular, have been involved in previous legal disputes.

In late 2019 and early 2020, Therabody filed patent infringement lawsuits in a U.S. District Court in California against Hyperice and Achedaway. In a settlement, Achedaway agreed to cease and desist its use of a product with a massage gun attachment that Therabody alleged infringed its Dampener Attachment. Hyperice, meanwhile, agreed to stop selling a massage device that had the attachment at issue. 

In the lawsuit filed Wednesday, Hyperice is represented by Lawrence LaPorte of Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP, Ben Herbert of Miller Barondess, LLP and Brian Arnold, associate general counsel and head of IP at Hyperice.

“We will aggressively defend our intellectual property rights and take all appropriate steps to ensure that our innovative products and technology are not misappropriated by opportunists seeking to knock us off,” said Jon Howell, general counsel at Hyperice. “Hyperice has successfully removed hundreds of infringing products globally, and will continue to enforce its intellectual property through litigation in federal court as necessary.”

Therabody didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit.

The post Hyperice Sues Therabody Over Massage Gun Patent Infringement appeared first on Athletech News.

All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission

Athletech News has tested and rounded up what we believe are the 25 best fitness and wellness holiday gifts of 2023. With everything from wearables to workout gear to red light face masks, this gift guide is bound to have something for the fitness fanatic or wellness guru in your life.

• 

  Apple Watch Series 9 

  Apple Watch Series 9 is the watch you know and love but better than ever. It is brighter (2x brighter than Series 8), more sustainable (available in a watch case and band combination that is carbon neutral), and more convenient than its predecessors. The new Double Tap feature picks up on the tiniest muscle movements in your wrist to recognize when you are tapping your index finger and thumb together, allowing you to answer a call, open a notification, play and pause music, and more. Double Tap is the feature you never knew you needed—it allows you to play and pause music when your hands are dirty from cooking or check your Smart Stack of apps while you are carrying your dog. Another cool new feature is Precision Finding, which directs you to your iPhone by showing you approximate distance and direction. When you get close, a loud chirp, visual indicator, and haptic feedback all help you find your way back to the device.

   

• 

  Barry’s Gift Card

  Now that in-person workouts are in full swing, Barry’s seems to be more popular than ever. If you’re unsure what to get a fitness fanatic, consider a Barry’s gift card. They range from $50 to $200 and can be used for online retail like apparel, accessories, and equipment. Barry’s has apparel from brands like Lululemon, Vuori, and Bandier, and accessories like drinkware, socks, and foam rollers. The gift card cannot be used, however, for classes. The brand also has its own fitness equipment, like adjustable weights, sweat towels, and its signature bench. Give someone the gift of bringing Barry’s home. 

• 

  BeautyBio GLOfacial 

  The BeautyBio GLOfacial is an at-home deep-cleansing and hydrating facial treatment tool that unclogs pores and exfoliates dead skin cells in just one treatment. The product acts like a vacuum with your pores, pulling out any dirt, oil, and makeup while simultaneously infusing it with Salicylic and Hyaluronic Acid. The tool comes with a GLOfacial concentrate, a small and large treatment tip, and one clarifying cap to customize your routine. For the skincare junkie, or a loved one managing clogged pores, the GLOfacial is a great gift. 

• 

  Blazepod

  Blazepod is an innovative workout system that includes stackable platforms that light up and users tap in response to optimize reflexivity, agility, and decision-making skills. For the athlete in your life who needs to breathe new life into their workout routine, Blazepod’s lighting pods cue your brain to make split-second decisions during training. The pods are controlled by the Blazepod app, which comes with hundreds of pre-set activities for drills, exercises, and competitions. The pods collect every tap to analyze your data down to the millisecond. This unique approach to training gamifies workouts, with customizability down to the color of the pod lights. They are also easy to transport: the pods’ stackable nature allows them to be easily packed up. Blazepod is also the reaction training platform for athletes from the NBA, NFL, MLB, and MLS, among other leagues. If you have a competitive athlete or someone who is looking to take their training to the next level, consider Blazepod.

• 

  Centr by Chris Hemsworth Workout Kit

  Centr, Chris Hemsworth’s fitness and wellness platform, has released at-home fitness products that complement its online content. The kit comes with 3 fabric resistance bands, 5 tube bands, 2 ankle straps, 2 D-handles, a dual hook straight bar, a door anchor, and a travel bag. The kit comes with 3 months of a digital Centr membership (a $59.99 value) that can be used on any device and syncs with your wearables. Centr’s online platform has both dynamic workouts led by expert fitness coaches and carefully crafted nutritional plans and recipes. The Centr Workout Kit is available on Walmart.com. 

• 

  Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

  On the hunt for the perfect gym bag? Dagne Dover’s Landon Carryall Bag is durable yet fashionable, and versatile yet well-organized. Made from neoprene, the bag is soft but structured, and can weather the storm of sweaty clothes or sneaker dirt. It is designed with thoughtful details, like well-placed mesh pockets (perfect for post-workout toiletries or a water bottle) and a laptop or iPad sleeve. The Landon Carryall also comes with a shoe or laundry bag to keep dirty items separate. While it doesn’t appear bulky, the bag can truly carry it all—it fits a surprising amount for its size. If you’re shopping for someone who needs a new everyday gym bag, look no further. 

• 

  Grüns Daily

  Want the benefits of greens powders without the chalky taste or messy cleanup? Grüns are gummies that contain over 20 vitamins and minerals including Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, Vitamin E, Zinc, and more. They come in little daily packets for easy consumption and are made with whole veggies, fruits, super mushrooms, adaptogens, antioxidants, and prebiotics. The gummies are also made with a pectin base, a fruit fiber, instead of gelatin. The gummies contain higher average sugar content than leading greens powders, but they more than make up for it in their vitamin content. Although they taste different than typical gummy candies, with a tarter flavor and a stickier consistency, you quickly adjust and fall in love with the flavor by the end of the bag. For a healthy stocking stuffer, consider gifting Grüns. 

• 

  Fabletics Apparel

  Looking for high-quality activewear that won’t break the bank? Fabletics offers apparel and accessories for men and women with a flexible VIP membership model. Each month, members are charged $59.95 for benefits, which unlock low prices for the activewear. Promotional credits roll over month-to-month for up to 12 months, and members can skip any month. Kevin Hart has been the face of Fabletics Men since 2020, and some of his favorite products include the Training Day Hoodie, a breathable sweatshirt with 4-way stretch, and the Fundamental Short, which has a no-roll waistband and anti-stink fabric. Fabletics also recently launched a collaboration with Kevin Hart last month called “Every Day Sunday” which celebrates the collection. For women who love a workout walk, the Open Back Onesie is breathable and versatile, in trendy color block designs, and the Cozy Fleece Hooded Onesie comes in seasonal colors and designs that will put your gift recipient in a festive mood.

• 

  Gold VK Carbon Fiber Performance Insoles

  For those looking to upgrade their sneaker game, Gold VK Carbon Fiber Performance Insoles from VKTRY are made from aerospace-grade carbon fiber and are customized for your sport, gender, age, and weight. Say goodbye to your sneaker’s foam or plastic insoles—these allow for more reactivity, explosivity, and support. If your loved one is a serious athlete who hasn’t yet converted to performance insoles, look no further—there will be no turning back. 

• 

  GORUCK GR1 Backpack

  For those looking for a serious backpack upgrade, the GR1 from GORUCK might fit the bill. The backpack has been proven to Special Forces standards and is designed to go from adventures to everyday life. The GR1 is highly waterproof and has a reinforced laptop compartment with a false bottom for extra support. The backpack has extra padded shoulder straps and a top handle for carrying comfort. Although the backpack is on the heavier side, it is easy to pack and organize, as it opens flat and has several internal pockets. GORUCK also donates 1% of its annual top-line revenue to various non-profit partners who support those who serve, including the military, Veterans, First Responders, teachers, and social workers, so you can feel good about your purchase. 

• 

  HigherDOSE Glow Serum + Red Light Face Mask

  The HigherDOSE Glow Serum and Red Light Face Mask are the dynamic duo for the skincare fanatic. The Glow Serum is a light-activated formula that can boost the benefits of the Red Light Face Mask. The Serum is made with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and other bio-nutrients for powerful hydration, enhancing the mask’s use of red and near-infrared LED technologies to warm the skin and provide a natural glow. The mask also seamlessly fits into one’s active lifestyle, with no cord to hold you back. You start seeing benefits soon after using the Red Light Mask, so your loved one will go into the new year with rejuvenated and glowing skin. 

• 

  Hyperice Normatec 3 Legs 

  The Hyperice Normatec 3 Legs offer extra rest and recovery for, you guessed it, legs. They bring a decade of science-backed research to provide users with a restorative massage using 7 levels of pressure and biomimicry to revive muscles and relieve pain. The Legs increase circulation while reducing delayed onset muscle soreness, and can be controlled through the Bluetooth-connected Hyperice app. The Normatec 3 Legs also comes in a new and reduced weight for easy traveling. They are a great gift for those recovering from injuries, or those who need a little more rest and recovery during an intense training plan. 

• 

  Kimberly Synder’s “You Are More Than You Think You Are” 

  New York Times bestselling author and celebrity nutritionist Kimberly Snyder’s book is about how best to reach your goals and live the life you have envisioned. The book draws inspiration from the guru Paramahansa Yoganandaa and includes personal stories and scientific research to provide simple exercises and practices to help readers unlock their potential. “You Are More Than You Think You Are” helps readers feel grounded and balanced amid hectic and overwhelming schedules. Snyder is also the founder of Solluna, a wellness brand with products like supplements, skincare, and online health and beauty courses. 

• 

  Methodology Gift Card

  For the fitness foodie, Methodology is a sustainably sourced meal delivery service that is gluten-, dairy-, and refined-sugar-free. The portion-controlled meals come in reusable, recyclable packaging and only require five minutes to heat up before eating. Methodology is the only food delivery service clinically validated by a leading university. The Signature Reset, a 4-day meal plan that you can personalize based on type of protein, offers menus that vary from week to week. Sample dishes include Wild Blue Crab and Prawn Cakes + Sherry Glazed Carrots, Roasted Hodo Soy Tofu Pho, and Chai-Spiced Apple Crumble Overnight Oats. The Reset is an easy way to get the year off on the right foot. The meals are simple but flavorful, with generous amounts of seasonings and dressings, a nice change from the many bland cleanses in the market. It also comes in packaging that makes the Reset easy to incorporate into a busy, on-the-go schedule. For the busy professional looking to hit reset in January, a Methodology gift card might be the perfect gift. 

• 

  NON Sets

  A gift perfect for Dry January, NON is a non-alcoholic wine brand with inventive and refreshing flavors. With flavors like Salted Raspberry and Chamomile, Caramelized Pear and Kombu, and Lemon Marmalade and Hibiscus, NON is infusing fun into non-alcoholic drinks. The beverages are not too sweet but have good flavors. NON drinks are also perfect for holiday gatherings sans alcohol. 

• 

  Oura x Equinox Rest and Recovery Kit

  Shopping for someone who can’t stop talking about the Oura ring? The Oura x Equinox Rest and Recovery Kit is a co-branded gift that features select finishes of an Oura Ring, an Oura x Equinox branded ring cover, and a one-year Oura membership. The black cover, though seemingly simple, is sleekly designed and fits tightly on an Oura ring for no-slip coverage from scratches. No more worrying about the ring knocking up against barbells during training—the Oura x Equinox Rest and Recovery Kit has you covered.  

• 

  REVOLVE Beauty’s 2023 Advent Calendar

  For the skin health fan, REVOLVE’s Beauty’s 2023 Advent Calendar includes 24 beauty products ranging from serums to body scrubs to daily peels. With six full-sized products and a $481 retail value, the calendar is also beautifully packaged in green and pink. Some standout products include Barbara Sturm’s the Good C Serum, which energizes the skin with much-needed Vitamin C and the SLNY Cryotherapy Massager, which uses cold therapy to tighten and de-puff skin. Don’t sleep on the advent calendar, as it usually sells out every year!

• 

  SOUNDBOKS Go 

  For a music-powered workout, the SOUNDBOKS Go is portable but has powerful bass, battery life, and sound quality. It’s perfect for outdoor or indoor workouts where your loved one needs some concert-level volume musical motivation. The full-bodied sound that feels like surround sound can elevate everyday workouts. It can fit on a bike rack, over your shoulder, or in the back seat of a car. The speaker system is dentproof, splashproof, and lightweight, and connects to the SOUNDBOKS app for easy control and wireless pairing. 

• 

  Speediance Gym Pal 

  The Speediance Gym Pal, the company’s latest and most compact release, packs a punch for its price. It has no membership requirement, so buying the equipment for a loved one is truly a gift. It has a weight capacity of 220 pounds, and the app comes with extensive programming and the ability to do customizable training. The Gym Pal is also compact—it can take up only 1.4 square feet when standing vertically and can be stored underneath a couch or bed. If you’re looking for a digital resistance platform that doesn’t break the bank, the Gym Pal might be the gift for you. 

• 

  Sprig Aromatherapy Experiences 

  Kohler, the plumbing and manufacturing company, launched Sprig, its first wellness brand specializing in aromatherapy. One of its offerings is a shower infusion kit that uses pods and a showerhead attachment to bring aromatherapy to your everyday routine. It also offers scented candles, body and linen mists, and bath bombs in six signature blends (Breathe, Focus, Shield, Recharge, Relax, and Sleep) to match your mood. The blends feature 100% natural botanicals and could be a perfect gift for a loved one looking to go into the new year with more Zen.  

• 

  Therabody Theragun Sense

  Theragun Sense from Therabody is a new percussion massage gun that has haptics, a heart rate sensor, and breathwork for moments of mindfulness. Perfect for a loved one who wants an integrated and holistic wellness practice and percussive relief that is not too intense, it’s the first percussive massage therapy that has calming breathwork to ease everyday stress and pain. The Therabody breathwork is a perfect way to start one’s day, accompanied by the Therabody app, which offers visually pleasing and calming guided videos for breathwork and meditation. 

• 

  Tnuck Sport 

  Want a stylish but classic take on athleisure? Tnuck Sport from Tuckernuck uses technical fabrics with fashionable silhouettes that can take you throughout your day. The Black Puff Sleeve Campbell Pullover is casual but put together, and can take you from the tennis or pickleball court to the coffee shop. The Suzanne Tennis Dress is a retro take on a classic style that is made from light materials and is similarly versatile. Tnuck Sport is a great gift for a loved one who doesn’t want to compromise style during workouts. 

• 

  TRX YBell PRO Series

  Why buy a kettlebell, a dumbbell, and a push-up stand, when the Ybell can act as all three? The YBell is a stackable, space-saving weight that is perfect for strength, HIIT, and cardio workouts. It comes in weights ranging from 10 pounds to 44 pounds and has a cast iron core and commercial-grade, powder-coated finish. It’s stackable and sleek and requires far less space than the three pieces of equipment it replaces. For those obsessed with space efficiency and design, the YBell could be the perfect gift. 

• 

  WHOOP Body 

  For the WHOOP users in your life, consider the WHOOP Body for the days they want their tracker to be “invisible.” The smart apparel line allows you to wear WHOOP 4.0 in a variety of different ways through built-in “pods.” Simply place the WHOOP tracker in said pods, and the device collects data from your torso, waist, and calf, depending on its placement in the clothing. The Any-Wear Athletic Boxers are particularly popular for men, while the women’s Any-Wear Bralettes feel supportive and soft throughout the day.  

• 

  Vuori Apparel 

  One of the hottest brands in athleisure right now, Vuori is bound to please even the pickiest friend or family member. The brand first became famous for its super soft Performance Joggers, and now carries everything from t-shirts, dresses, and outerwear. The Performance Joggers are now available in more than 15 colors, and are made in the brand’s DreamKnit fabric, which your loved one will not want to take off. Although the joggers are stretchy and ultra-comfortable, they also look sleek and flattering enough for daily errands or a casual night out, particularly in the black color. Vuori also expanded its product line to cozy outerwear, with insulated and sherpa jackets. Even with their non-DreamKnit products, Vuori delivers on coziness and versatility. For those obsessed with comfort but not willing to sacrifice style, consider Vuori.  

The post The 25 Best Holiday Gifts for Fitness & Wellness Fans appeared first on Athletech News.

All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission

Therabody was founded in 2008 by Dr. Jason Wersland, who was inspired to create the company after a painful motorcycle accident. Over the past decade and a half, Therabody has emerged as a leading recovery technology company, expanding from percussive therapy into areas like skincare, sleep therapy and muscle-stimulating devices. 

The Theragun Pro Plus, which was launched in October as part of Therabdoy’s new lineup of massage guns, kept the same as its predecessor, at $599. But at such a steep price tag, is the Pro Plus worth it?

Athletech News put Therabody’s premium massage gun to the test. 

Pros

The Theragun Pro Plus really is all-in-one. It offers everything from infrared light therapy to vibration therapy, heat therapy, cold therapy and breathwork.

One of the best new features of the Theragun Pro Plus is that it uses both hot and cold therapy for recovery. In addition to its usual attachments (the standard ball, dampener, thumb, micro-point, and wedge), it includes a heated attachment that warms up to three temperatures: 113, 122, and 131 degrees Fahrenheit in less than 10 seconds. The cold attachment, which can be purchased for another $89, cools to 59, 50, and 41 degrees Fahrenheit in the same amount of time. The heat attachment, in particular, is a game-changer for muscle recovery.   

The Theragun Pro Plus also includes near-infrared light therapy, which has been increasing in popularity for recovery. It has been shown to improve muscle recovery and reduce inflammation. The light therapy is delivered through 13 LED lights on the bottom of the handle, and can be turned on and off. 

One of the Theragun Pro Plus’ great new features compared to the Pro (fifth Gen) model is the addition of vibration therapy. For sensitive areas or joint pain, vibration therapy may be more manageable compared to percussive therapy. This was an incredibly helpful tool for areas like the knees. 

The Therabody app has also undergone huge improvements in the last year. The TheraMind sound therapy feature is relaxing and soothing, and uses engaging animated visuals, unlike many guided meditations. It connects to the Pro Plus through the biometric sensors, which makes the device a more holistic tool for wellness. The app quickly connects to the Pro Plus and can switch between Therabody devices if you have multiple. 

Lastly, a simple but effective change for the Pro Plus was clearer labeling on the device’s carrying case. Now, the cases have accompanying images and text to clearly explain how best to use each attachment to optimize recovery. As education is important with such a complex tool, this change was incredibly helpful for day-to-day use. 

Cons

Although the Theragun Pro Plus is likely one of the most advanced massage guns on the market, its steep price might be hard to stomach for many consumers. In addition, that the cold attachment is sold separately adds to the already-high cost for those wanting contrast therapy. 

The massage gun is also a fair amount heavier than its alternatives, at 3.63 pounds. The Pro is 2.86 pounds, while the Elite and Prime are only 2.20. For those who plan to use the massage gun on the go, this might be a potential downside. 

Final Thoughts

The Theragun Pro Plus might not be the best investment for massage-gun novices due to its price point. However, if you’re ready to bring your recovery game to the next level with breathwork, vibration therapy and contrast therapy, consider the splurge.

Read more reviews from ATN’s Product of the Week series here

The post Product of the Week: Is Theragun Pro Plus the World’s Best Massage Gun? appeared first on Athletech News.

Therabody has been a hit with A-listers and pro athletes, quickly amassing a who’s who list of over 100 investors since debuting its Theragun in 2016. Now, the wellness technology company is ready for its next act, targeting everyday consumers and reminding them that through Therabody products, pain relief and wellness can become a reality as opposed to a wish. 

As part of its ongoing push to the everyday consumer, Therabody recently launched three new massage guns: Theragun Relief, Theragun Sense, and Theragun PRO Plus.

“I think we’ve become so accustomed to living with pain and it doesn’t have to be that way,” Dr. Jason Wersland, founder and chief wellness officer of Therabody, tells Athletech News. “We started with the pro athletes and have flipped the script to deliver the most effective and innovative therapies to everybody.”

Inspiration Through Pain

For Dr. Wersland, his own experience with pain had been a motivation for the formation of the wellness technology brand. After a motorcycle accident that resulted in a disc bulge injury, Dr. Wersland created the Theragun, finding relief and hope in the percussive therapy device. 

Knowing all too well that you don’t have to be a pro athlete to experience pain and discomfort, Therabody continues to create products that alleviate physical and mental challenges.

“It’s true that the sports and fitness community was among the first to adopt recovery as a regular part of wellness, but everyone can relate to having pain and soreness, wanting to improve sleep or lower stress levels,” Dr. Wersland said,

Serving those who spend their days sitting at desks or standing on their feet has long been a goal of the company, driven in tandem by the recent surge in holistic wellness modalities. 

“It’s important for people to know that Theragun — and all our products — are for everybody,” Dr. Wersland said. “Ultimately, Therabody is trying to help each individual live a healthier life.“

Pandemic Drives Demand

The pandemic was a wake-up call for some, with consumers inspired to make beneficial changes in their lifestyles, Dr. Wersland believes. Since his company is centered on encouraging consumers to take control of their health and bodies through its products, he notes that it’s been rewarding to see Therabody’s impact — which continues to this day.

“The pandemic changed the way we think about health and wellness. All of a sudden, the entire world was interested in how healthy they are and wanting to take control of their wellness into their own hands,” Dr. Wersland said. “Consumers want to be able to have the best of the best therapies available to them at hand.”

Without access to physical therapy, massages, gyms or fitness studios, at-home solutions became not only great options but essentials.

“We’ve continued to see that sustained growth,” Dr. Wersland notes. “At Therabody, we had been spreading the message of owning your own health and well-being for many years, but that time in lockdown became an unexpected catalyst for reaching people on a larger scale.” 

Wellness Is Here To Stay

The timing couldn’t be more perfect for Therabody: even with the pandemic in the rearview mirror, consumers are still keen on at-home fitness and wellness while seeking ways to feel better and look younger.

Even more encouraging for Therabody and the industry as a whole, Dr. Wersland is assured this new wellness wave isn’t a trend — but is here to stay.

“From what we’ve seen, people are looking for ways to take care of themselves in a more holistic way without medicine or prescriptions – I don’t expect this to slow down anytime soon,” he predicts.

Recognizing that consumers are still busy with their daily commitments, Dr. Wersland anticipates that the health and wellness industry will adopt a more “on the go” approach, which he says will make it even more accessible to the everyday person. Nodding to a fast-paced lifestyle, Therabody recently announced a partnership with United Airlines to promote wellness in the skies and bring rest and relaxation to travelers. 

As for health and wellness in 2024 and beyond, Dr. Wersland predicts that we will see the rise of biometric measurement capability so people can tune into their bodies more than ever before. 

Beauty & Anti-Aging

For now, Therabody is focusing on its beauty branch. It’s an area that the brand is fully embracing, as seen with a dedicated business segment just for beauty and anti-aging technology.

“We’re not stopping with the announcement of TheraFace Mask,” Dr. Wersland promises, referencing the new at-home anti-aging mask that uses LED light therapy and Therabody’s signature vibration therapy for relaxation, and was based on consumer demand and feedback.

“After the blockbuster 2022 launch of our inaugural beauty device TheraFace PRO, we plan on continuing to grow the Therabody Beauty business division,” Dr. Wersland confirmed to ATN, pointing out that the TheraFace PRO catapulted Therbaody into the beauty space with over 14 awards and sales second only to its flagship product family, Theragun.

“With the announcement of the Therabody Beauty division, we are dedicated to innovating in the facial health space by bringing tech to beauty to deliver non-invasive, effectual solutions that are easy to do at home,” he added.

The post Therabody’s Next Chapter: Democratizing Wellness & Beauty appeared first on Athletech News.

A newly released report from Hilton reveals that personal wellness is a goal of travelers across all generations in 2024, with a good night of sleep at the top of the list.

Most would agree that life has been anything but stress-free in the last few years, given an unprecedented pandemic, job losses, rising interest rates and healthcare costs. These factors may explain why so many Americans are gravitating to health and wellness activities as they continue to reset, utilizing travel to practice self-care. 

Further underscoring the importance of travel to consumers, Hilton’s report shows that 64% of global travelers will reduce spending in other areas of their lives to prioritize leisure travel in 2024. 

Hilton’s “2024 Trends Report: What Millennials, Gen Z, Gen X and Baby Boomers Tell Us About Travel in the Year Ahead” shows that 44% of Gen Z travelers, 37% of Millennials and 28% of Gen Xers welcome the use of music or podcasts before sleep.

In addition to being lulled to sleep by music or a podcast, nearly 10% of global travelers reveal that they pack a white noise machine to create a soothing soundscape.

Gen Z travelers, in particular, are most mindful of their night-time routines, with 21% regulating workout routines and 25% avoiding alcohol before hitting the hay.

The Rest & Rejuvenation Economy

Although traveling is mainly about the destination, consumers are coming to expect various touchpoints throughout their journey that promote rest and well-being, with companies taking note. United, one of the major players in the airline industry, recently announced a partnership with Therabody, bringing the wellness technology company’s products and devices to its international business class travelers.

Much like Hilton, the airline referenced a surprising stat: 83% of international travelers want to catch up on sleep while in the air, with over half reporting sleep is more important than Wi-Fi access or even beverage service.

Airports are also getting a rejuvenation overhaul as demand for wellness increases. In addition to its in-flight Therabody amenities, United is introducing in-airport Therabody Reset Suites, which are scheduled to open this fall at all United Polaris lounges.

Can consumers expect to see more cross-partnerships between the travel and wellness industry? It seems likely. 

In addition to fitness brands like Peloton pushing into hospitality, a global travel trends report by American Express revealed that 70% of travelers prefer to arrive at the airport early to settle in and relax before embarking on their travels. With extra time to themselves, others may prefer to squeeze in a workout and shower, made possible by Roam Fitness, an airport-based gym concept with locations at the Philadelphia International Airport and Washington D.C.’s BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport.

You can read the full Hilton 2024 Trends Report here.

The post Why Sleep May Be the Next Big Thing in Wellness Travel appeared first on Athletech News.

From cold water plunges to peptides, consumers are increasingly seeking non-invasive treatments that promote wellness and longevity — and industry leaders are taking note. 

Boutique wellness studios and spas are booming, and the addition of technology is allowing consumers to quickly book a non-invasive appointment leaving them feeling refreshed. Consumers also have the option of purchasing their own devices for wellness on the go or at home.

Here are four companies creating and disrupting the future of the wellness industry, winning over everyday consumers with therapies once reserved for celebrities.

Therabody & High-Tech Self-Care

Therabody, a wellness technology company renowned for its Theragun massage gun and other high-tech solutions, offers science-backed products that reduce stress and pain, and encourage wellness habits.

The company has partnered with top athletes including James Harden, Cristiano Ronaldo and DeAndre Hopkins, and closed a $165 million growth equity round last year.

Dr. Jason Wersland, Therabody’s founder and chief wellness officer, has seen consumers shift their priorities towards wellness, citing the pandemic as one challenge that empowered people to take charge of their health. 

“Wellness is definitely in the greater conversation, culturally,” Dr. Wersland said. “People are exercising more and looking for ways to care for themselves, which is where Therabody comes in. We’re always working on science-backed ways to deliver well-being to as many people as we can.”

Recognizing that Therabody customers lead busy lifestyles, the company has developed wearable product lines such as RecoveryTherm and RecoveryPulse, offering an on-the-go option so people can continue their daily routines while receiving recovery benefits.

“In terms of active recovery, products like the Theragun and TheraCup are really beneficial as well,” Dr. Wersland said. “We also like to make our innovations easy to use, so we have developed a wide range of routines that people can use in the Therabody App. Protocols are tailored to address specific needs and target treatment areas so you can feel better, faster.”

Most importantly, Therabody’s products are suitable for a wide range of consumers and have helped shape the narrative around recovery and self-care.

“While our devices are pro-grade, they’re used by everyone from professional athletes, parents and grandparents, people who work on their feet all day or at a desk,” Dr. Wersland explained. “We have made products that are simple, effective, and convenient so you can easily add self-care into your routine.”

As for the future, Therabody is focused beyond the body and to the mind, Dr. Wersland shared. 

“TheraMind content in our app pairs with several of our devices to help ease the body into the ideal state to relax and receive maximum benefit from our therapies,” he said. “Our focus is to consistently provide cutting-edge, best-in-class products, content and services that support both mind and body.”

The Covery Brings Spa Experience to the Masses

The Covery Wellness Spa, an immersive boutique wellness experience, is poised for significant expansion across the Northeast as the demand for comprehensive recovery services continues to surge.

The rapidly developing spa, projected to launch 100 additional locations by year’s end, provides an extensive range of therapeutic services, including cryotherapy, facials, body sculpting, IV therapy, red light therapy and more. All of the therapies at The Covery boast an impressive array of benefits aimed at supporting overall health and wellness, improving recovery and performance, and improving overall aesthetics to help clients live, glow and perform in their everyday lives.

Ryan Ensmann, director of marketing and operations at The Covery, reports a significant upswing in interest for non-invasive aesthetic therapies and peptides. It appears that an increasing number of consumers are exploring beauty and aesthetic treatments that provide viable alternatives to invasive procedures.

Peptides, particularly, are garnering increased attention from consumers. 

“Peptides have surged in awareness owing to the rise in popularity of Semaglutide,” Ensmann asserts. “The Covery offers an array of available peptides to help support various health and wellness benefits!”

According to Ensmann, oxygen therapy, IV therapy, and peptides currently rank as some of the most sought-after therapies at The Covery.

The wellness spa employs a hyperbaric oxygen chamber for oxygen therapy, a modality that involves inhaling oxygen at pressures exceeding normal atmospheric levels. This treatment promotes enhanced oxygen distribution throughout the body, especially in areas requiring an energy boost. The result is increased stamina and cognitive function, robust lung health support and expedited recovery from physical exertion.

“Every therapy we offer leverages cutting-edge technology,” Ensmann said. “The Covery serves as an ideal hub for health and wellness, offering these and numerous other therapies under one roof, coupled with a convenient membership model that provides easy access to our therapies for all of our members.”

SweatHouz & The Rise of Sauna, Cold Plunge 

SweatHouz, a rapidly growing chain of infrared sauna and cold plunge studios, plans to open 25 to 30 locations by the end of the year. The boutique wellness business began franchising last summer, quickly gaining steam with over 100 licenses sold in territories nationwide. 

“We hope to get 100 studios opened by the end of 2024,” Jamie Weeks, SweatHouz founder, has told Athletech News. “In 2024 and 2025, you’re going to start seeing SweatHouz locations pop up everywhere.”

The company also teamed up with Hyperice, a global wellness brand, in a deal where SweatHouz clients will find Hyperice’s tech-based recovery products as additional studio therapies in all SweatHouz locations. 

Stefani Rizzi, SweatHouz’s head of marketing and design, says the rising popularity of boutique wellness can be attributed to several factors.

“First and foremost, people are increasingly prioritizing their health and well-being — and they are looking for offerings that make it simple to achieve their goals,” Rizzi said, adding that boutique wellness studios like SweatHouz attract consumers looking to build a wellness routine with ease and comfort in mind. 

It’s also SweatHouz’s focus on creating a welcoming and high-end atmosphere that allows for a more personalized client experience, where guests develop a sense of community, ultimately creating client loyalty. 

“Over the last few years (SweatHouz) has fully immersed ourselves in the client experience and continues to outperform competitors when it comes to servicing our members and providing a next-level experience for everyone,” Rizzi said. “Service aside — it’s what we do behind the scenes that sets us apart.”

Overall, Rizzi says the boutique wellness industry is just heating up. 

“You’ve seen it with brands like Orangetheory, Barry’s, SoulCycle, and other like-minded fitness brands — but the recovery space is full of untapped potential,” she said. “There are plenty of fitness concepts and more are emerging almost daily but you are not seeing that in the recovery and mental health space. At SweatHouz, we target it all — from cardiovascular health to injury prevention, muscle recovery, and just a simple escape from the noise of the world. It’s not just about your physical well-being — your mental health has to be a priority too.”

Icebox Cryotherapy Spreads the Gospel of Cold 

While being exposed to ultra-low temperatures may not sound like an enjoyable time, cryotherapy is one of the coolest trends in wellness. With just three minutes, cold therapy can be an effective way to assist in athletic recovery, pain management, beauty and wellness.  

It’s also a treatment that changed the life of Icebox Cryotherapy Studios founder and CEO Alia Alston. 

After being involved in a serious car accident, Alston was left with chronic pain and a debilitating neck injury. Her father, a chiropractor, caught wind of the first cryotherapy sauna in the U.S. and encouraged Alston to give it a try. 

Within just a few sessions, she soon discovered the therapeutic abilities of cryotherapy, eventually relieving the numbness in her arm and leg and experiencing a major reduction in pain.

Wanting to help others, Alston developed Icebox as a spa-like wellness studio offering cryotherapy and other services. The cryotherapy company has sold 36 locations through organic sales, with most franchisees being former Icebox members or guests. 

By the close of the year, Icebox Therapy will have 20 studios open and more planned for 2024, demonstrating the recent surge in interest in recovery, particularly cold therapy.

“People are using various practices and techniques to promote physical and mental healing,” Alston said. “Of course, one of the most popular methods is cold therapy, known for its ability to reduce inflammation and speed up healing.”

Alston explains that cold therapy has additional benefits, such as improving circulation and boosting endorphin production for pain relief and an improved mood.

“This trend towards holistic health shows a shift away from relying solely on medication or invasive procedures,” she said. “People are now seeking natural and non-invasive methods to improve their well-being.”

As consumers continue to seek out non-invasive wellness treatments like cryotherapy, Icebox is ready to implement a robust franchise development sales strategy that will allow the company to rapidly expand into communities.

“We’ve dedicated the past four years to building a solid foundation of systems, applications, technology and policies to support our studios,” Alston said. “It’s important to me that we have a plan and the capability to open all these studios. Franchising is my way of empowering others to have their own business and positively impact their communities.”

The post The Boutique Wellness Era Is Officially Here appeared first on Athletech News.

While flying is rarely the most relaxing part of traveling for business or pleasure, United is looking to give its guests a bit of recovery in the air, introducing TheraFace comfort products and Therabody devices to its international business class travelers.

The reason? The demand for luxury touchpoints and recovery is there. United reports that its international bookings are up 20% compared to last year, with guests opting for its premium cabin seats 30% more than in 2022. Plus, the airline cites a stat revealing 83% of international travelers identify catching Zs as an in-flight goal, with over half reporting sleep is more important than Wi-Fi access or even beverage service. In an adjacent vein, wellness-centered travel is also on the rise with consumers.

In-Flight & On the Ground

United customers flying via United Polaris international business class will be provided a Therabody amenity kit, complete with a TheraFace eye serum, face spray, hand cream and cleansing towelette. Those in United Polaris lounges will have access to popular Therabody products such as the Lounger, Theragun and RecoveryAir JetBoots, and have the chance to enjoy inflight wellness videos with guidance from Therabody experts. The videos are ideal for travelers looking to relax or ease into a restful sleep with breathwork and guided meditations.

“International travel is booming and our customers have direct access to more places around the globe than any other airline – with these new amenities, now they’ll also have the best experience flying there,” said Andrew Nocella, United executive vice president and chief commercial officer.

United also confirmed it’s bringing its wellness amenities to the ground, with in-airport Therabody’s Reset Suites scheduled to open this fall at all United Polaris lounges.

The suites will initially launch in New York/Newark and San Francisco lounges later this month, followed by Chicago O’Hare, Houston Intercontinental, Los Angeles and Washington Dulles. 

The airline expects each lounge to offer at least one semi-private room complete with Therabody wellness technology, including a Lounger. Other amenities will be available through lounge valets, such as the Theragun, SmartGoggles and RecoveryAir JetBoots. TheraFace skin and body care products will be found in the United Polaris lounge restrooms and showers.

Is Airport Wellness the Next Big Thing?

Therabody’s collaboration with United signals a potentially larger trend as we look to 2024 and beyond. Roam Fitness, an airport-based gym concept, recently launched in Terminal F at the Philadelphia International Airport, its second location.

A global travel trends report by American Express recently demonstrated that 70% of travelers prefer to arrive at the airport early to settle in and relax before taking flight, positioning Roam Fitness and Therabody to be ready to meet their needs.

The partnership with United follows Therabody’s push into beauty with the introduction of its tech–advanced anti-aging mask and new business branch, Therabody Beauty.

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Therabody, the wellness tech company behind the Theragun, has a solid track record of serving tech-forward devices to combat everyday aches and pains for average consumers, fitness enthusiasts and professional athletes, but consumers are demanding to look good, too — and Therabody is listening.

The company has just launched an innovative LED face mask that fights aging along with a new business branch, Therabody Beauty.

The TheraFace Mask, a $599 FDA-cleared LED light therapy mask that employs 648 medical-grade infrared LED lights to minimize the symptoms of aging while firming skin and promoting a healthy glow, includes Therabody’s signature vibration therapy for added relaxation. 

The wellness tech company says the latest device was inspired by consumer demand and feedback and was designed for convenience but has been on the mind of its founder from the start.

“From the time we developed our first Theragun, I wanted to use LED therapy,” said Dr. Jason Wersland, Therabody founder and chief wellness officer. “LED can help heal and repair tissue, which is why we were exploring LED in the first place.”

Therabody’s Science team paired with Media Lab Science to engage in an independent clinical study that included 31 test subjects between the ages of 39 to 64, where each participant used the mask for nine minutes a day for six days a week. Upon completing the 12-week study, TheraFace Mask was shown to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, smoothed texture, firmed skin, reduced sagging, boosted radiance and lightened dark spots.

The TheraFace Mask offers nine-minute preset cycles using Red, Red + Infrared and Blue light therapies for maximum results. Users can also opt for a quick three-minute cycle or a longer 15-minute vibration-only massage session for stress reduction. The device comes with removable protective eye shields and adjustable straps.

As customers continue to seek new and tech-driven methods to optimal living, Therabody is expanding with a dedicated business segment just for beauty, the result of its continuous success with its first beauty gadget, TheraFace Pro. TheraFace Pro garnered the company over 14 awards and sales that nearly rivaled Theragun, its flagship product.

The company closed a $165 million growth equity round last year.

The new TheraFace Mask is available at Therabody’s website, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Best Buy.

In addition to Therabody’s at-home beauty push, the company has recently partnered with Barry’s to promote its recovery devices. Earlier this year, Therabody announced it would move into the garment sector, with compression wearables that offer vibration.

The post Therabody Makes Beauty Push With New Anti-Aging Mask appeared first on Athletech News.

Blender Bites, a female-founded at-home frozen food brand that allows consumers to add a liquid of their choice to quickly create a fresh smoothie, has just entered the U.S. market, debuting in 1,600 Walmart locations across the country. The brand has also caught the eye of actress, singer and dancer Julianne Hough, a brand partner and investor, who has also invested in Therabody.

Earlier this summer, Blender Bites announced it achieved record-breaking revenues of $918,509 and had its largest month in sales to date.

The one-step, cube-shaped products are made with functional ingredients like organic fruits, greens, probiotics, vitamins and adaptogenic mushrooms and are organic, gluten-free, dairy-free and soy-free. Packaged as little pucks, the Blender Bites are convenient for at home or on the go. 

For those seeking a “better for you” treat, Blender Bites also offers one-step Frappes with 50% less sugar, calories and carbs than a traditional frappe drink while incorporating probiotics and collagen.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled about Blender Bites’ arrival in the US,” Hough said of the Canadian company. “The dedication to health-conscious innovation, combined with the commitment to bringing accessible wellness options, resonates with me deeply.”

Walmart stores and Walmart.com will stock three of Blender Bites’ one-step Smoothie selections, such as Liquid Sunshine with vitamin D, Daily Defen-C with immune-boosting probiotics and Power Berry, a blend of seven organic greens and B vitamins. The mega retailer will also sell Blender Bites’ Mindful Mocha and Caramel Collagen, both from the one-step Frappes line.

“We are thrilled to bring Blender Bites to Walmart’s vast network of stores across the U.S.,” said Chelsie Hodge, the company’s CEO and founder. “Walmart has shown incredible support of our brand and has shown true collaboration over the past 18 months. This opportunity is by far the most significant in our company’s history, and it represents a transformative step towards our goal of becoming a household name in the frozen food and beverage category.”

Hodge started the company in 2017 to provide an easy and affordable smoothie solution in the form of a pre-portioned puck using nutritious ingredients. 

In an interview with Food in Canada, Hodge shared that COVID-19 increased demand for Blender Bites’ products, as consumers were seeking items with vitamins that supported health and immunity.

Looking ahead, Hodge confirmed to Athletech News that Blender Bites plans to expand to other products in 2024 and is interested in developing new items that are aligned with its mission to create healthy, functional and convenient frozen food products.

The post Backed by Julianne Hough, Blender Bites Launches US Retail Expansion appeared first on Athletech News.

Step up your self-care gift game this summer with some of the best and most effective products in recovery, wellness, fitness and more. From high-tech sleep aids to relief kits to the best workout gear and equipment, you’re sure to find something for your loved ones or yourself.

All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission

Best for Recovery

Therabody SmartGoggles

Therabody’s SmartGoggles are perfect for moments of sleep, focus, and stress. Its SmartSense Technology is an exclusive biometric sensor that can lower one’s heart rate to a more relaxed state. If you spend all day staring at a screen, slip them on and use the SmartGoggles’ different modalities: vibration, massage, and heat. It also comes with TheraMind—a sound experience in the Therabody app. The product has a 150-minute battery life, depending on its mode. 

Dream Recovery Sleep Masks

The Dream Recovery Sleep Masks will elevate your sleep experience. The O.G. Performance Sleep Mask is constructed with 30 momme silk, the highest quality silk in the world. The mask is snug but not constraining, and stays put all night long. The brand’s 3D Performance Sleep Mask is similarly constructed with 30 momme silk but has a unique contour design that reduces pressure on one’s eyes. A downside of the masks is that they are pricier than many alternatives, but for those who prioritize high-quality silk and construction in sleep masks, Dream Recovery is a great option. 

Hatch Restore 

Hatch Restore allows you to sleep the way nature intended. It lulls you to bed with soothing sleep sounds and wakes you up with a gentle sunrise alarm. Sounds like “forest birds” bring you back to simpler times. Hatch Restore is also a bedtime light, with lights in colors like Lilac or Warm White to cue your body for bedtime. Its rest and rise buttons allow you to go phone-free, also promoting improved sleep health. 

Craniosacral Therapy + TMJ Massage

If you’ve never done Craniosacral Therapy before, you’re in for a treat. It is a gentle hands-on treatment that facilitates the body’s natural healing processes. The therapy supports a suspension of movement in the cerebrospinal fluid to promote vitality and health. Paired with an in-depth TMJ massage focused on the jaw, head, neck, and thoracic inlet, your body will feel balanced and thriving once more. Stillpoint Beauty, founded by a Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist, is one of the best locations in New York City for both services. 

Naboso Studio Socks

The Naboso Studio Socks are a great self-care gift that enhances mind-body practices, improves foot awareness, and promotes foot health. Whether you’re engaging in Pilates, barre, or any other workout, these socks enhance foot awareness, helping you maintain proper form and alignment. With their texture-meets-grip design, these socks provide neuro-stimulation, helping you connect to your foundation and improve balance. They’re perfect for workouts, foot recovery, and improving circulation. 

Whoop 4.0 + Apparel

The WHOOP 4.0 is truly the next generation of fitness tracking, particularly for weightlifters. It’s lightweight and lacks a screen, for a distraction-free tracking experience. In addition, while a ring wearable might get in the way of proper lifting, the WHOOP accurately tracks exertion during strength workouts without interference. WHOOP also offers apparel, which can conveniently fit the tracker if you don’t want to wear anything on your wrist. 

Best for Workouts

Boxing and Barbells Leather Boxing Gloves

Boxing and Barbell’s Leather Gloves are a new take on traditional boxing gloves, and provide more flexibility to seamlessly transition from boxing to other exercises. Unlike most boxing gloves, these are open in the hand, so you can lift weights without removing the gloves. One notable feature of the gloves is their additional wrist support through a Velcro strap. Additionally, the gloves are perfect for those with smaller hands. The leather feels high-quality and the style is on point—the Rose Gold gloves are a feminine take on a traditionally masculine sport. Sometimes, self-care is all about letting off some steam, so Boxing and Barbell’s Leather Gloves make a great gift.

MAÄT Leggings in TULA 

The MAÄT 1.0 Leggings are an innovative way to bring more support to the practice of yoga. Founded by Fiona Devaney, MAÄT was created out of a desire for more knee support. The leggings are moto-chic and sleek, with the extra knee padding blending into their design. The brand’s new TULA fabric is cozy enough for lounging around and is simultaneously a high-quality technical fabric for wicking away sweat. If you plan to cross-train in these leggings, they may not be the most seamless for biking or running, as the knee pads might feel restrictive. However, they are great for bodyweight exercises or cardio intervals combined with strength workouts. 

Barry’s Classes

One of the hottest studios of the moment, Barry’s has something for everyone. Barry’s offers gift cards that are the perfect way to hold yourself accountable to get into the studio. Depending on your location, Barry’s has its traditional RUN X LIFT classes, but also offers RIDE, its cycling experience, and LIFT, its strength-only offering.  If you prefer online offerings, Barry’s X is only $39.99 per month for unlimited access. Users have unlimited access to Live X Classes, Videos on Demand, and Previously Live content. 

Bala Bangles 

Bala Bangles add a comfortable amount of resistance to your workout and can be worn on wrists or ankles for athletic and recreational activities. They’re sleek and stylish and come in a variety of colors. The Bangles are perfect for Pilates, Barre, or other low-impact workouts. The one downside of the Bala Bangles is that their athletic elastic and hook and loop fasteners are not the highest quality—and sometimes get caught when one is strapping them on or removing the Bangles. 

WalkingPad R2 Walk&Run 2N1 Folding Treadmill

According to some doctors, sitting is the next big epidemic. A foldable treadmill is perfect under one’s desk or as a gym alternative. The treadmill’s speed ranges from 0 mph-3.7mph/hour for the walking range and 0.5-7.45mph for the running range.  It is also not so loud that Zoom calls are off the table—just pop in some AirPods. The KS Fit app displays one’s time, speed, steps, and calories burned. Its foot control feature can sense steps in walking range for intelligent speed control. 

Stryd

Stryd is a wearable device that clips onto your shoe and syncs up with your watch to help with pacing and intensity. The device alerts you when you’re running too fast or slow to help you reach the optimal pace. To use Stryd, runners open its app on a smartwatch, choose a target intensity or training plan, and then start their run. Next, runners begin their workout, speed up to the target intensity, and hold it for the duration of the lap. Stryd notifies runners about their need to speed up or slow down, particularly when encountering hills or wind. 

Lululemon The Workout Mat

Lululemon’s mats are the gold standard for all types of workouts. The Workout Mat has a grippy surface that can keep up with everything from yoga to HIIT workouts. Its textural design allows one to transition from burpees to squats without slipping. The mat is also sustainably sourced—its top layer was made using recycled PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral), which is a resin used in safety glass like windshields, that would otherwise end up in landfills. It is also sweatproof and stain resistant. The Workout Mat’s one downside is that it is heavier to carry around to classes than other alternatives, but it more than makes up for that in quality. 

CorePower Gift Card

CorePower is the perfect blend of strength and stretch and will get your heart pumping during its many workout variations. Gift cards can be for live or studio class packs, in-studio retail, or for an Intro Month payment towards a membership. CorePower has over 200 locations in 21 states, and virtual live streaming and video-on-demand classes that are physically intensive but grounded in yoga’s mindfulness. 

Vitruvian Trainer+

Vitruvian’s Trainer+ is an all-in-one home gym solution for fitness enthusiasts. It gives you a wide range of customizable strength, as it can generate resistance up to 440 pounds without all the bulky equipment. Its accompanying V app ensures that each of your moves is customized to target specific areas of the body and achieve your fitness goals. 

Best for Wellness

Papier Wellness Journal

Papier’s Wellness Journal is a daily wellness journal that helps you set intentions and reflect on meals, water intake, and sleep. The journal is beautifully designed with bright colors that will make you look forward to focusing on gratitude. 

Viome Full Body Intelligence Test

Viome presents a great self-care gift that combines innovation and personalization in the realm of preventative health. Through their user-friendly, at-home personalized tests, Viome enables individuals to gain invaluable insights into their dietary and nutrition needs, allowing them to make well-informed choices that can lead to increased energy levels, weight management, and improved digestion.

Athleticism’s Deep Sleep Grounding Bag 

The Grounding Bag has unique features, such as repelling EMF and harnessing the healing pulse of the earth through pink Tesla Crystals, making it a powerful tool for relaxation and rejuvenation. By simply placing the bag on or under your bed, you can experience deeper REM sleep and potentially enhance your dream experiences. The bag’s medicinal resonance and magnetic colloid crystals create a soothing environment that can recharge your body and mind. Additionally, the bag’s versatility allows it to work effectively on any surface, making it suitable for use in various settings such as homes or offices. Prioritizing self-care with this grounding bag can contribute to a restful night’s sleep and promote overall wellness, making it a top gift option.

Lululemon x Saje The Relief Kit 

The Relief Kit showcases Saje’s calming oils and creams but for a yoga-specific self-care gift. It comes with Yoga Oil Blend, which includes patchouli oil, orange oil and neroli oil, Yoga Mist, Yoga Body Butter, and a Massage Ball. The Massage Ball has small spikes that provide relief on areas like one’s thighs, back, shoulders, and feet, particularly when used in tandem with the Yoga Body Butter. The Yoga Oil is perfect to rub on your neck, wrists, and elbow creases before practice, and the Yoga Mist can be sprayed above your yoga mat to facilitate meditative states. 

Best of the Rest: Fashion, Food & More

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

The Paravel Fold-Up Bag is perfect for the gym, weekend trips, or as a backup piece of luggage you can bring along during your next trip. It is made of ultra-lightweight, water-resistant Negative Nylon, and folds up flat and zips into a tiny pouch. The tote can fit 3-5 days’ worth of clothes and 1-2 pairs of shoes. 

Barry’s X P.E. Nation Apparel Collaboration 

This summer, treat yourself or your loved ones to the PE Nation x Barry’s workout set. This collaboration brings together the expertise of Barry’s, known for their high-energy cardio and strength interval training, and P.E Nation, the popular active-streetwear brand. The three-piece collection offers a combination of style and functionality. Made with moisture-wicking and breathable fabric, this set ensures you stay comfortable and supported during your workouts. Don’t miss the PE Nation x Barry’s Dark Navy Sports Bra, available exclusively online at Barry’s and in studios nationwide. 

Splendid Spoon Subscription

With a focus on healthy, plant-based meals, Splendid Spoon provides a hassle-free solution for individuals looking to revamp their nutrition. Their subscription offers a variety of delicious and nutritionally balanced soups, smoothies, grain bowls, and wellness shots that are ready to enjoy with minimal preparation. Splendid Spoon works with chefs and registered dieticians to create meals that are healthy, balanced, and delicious. With over 65 nourishing, pre-made soup and grain bowls, noodle bowls, smoothies, and more, Splendid Spoon takes the guesswork out of meal planning. Every meal is at most a microwave away. It’s an ideal self-care gift if you’re looking for a sustainable approach to healthy eating. 

Alo x 01 Classic Sneaker

Alo’s x 01 Classic sneaker is a go-to style for everything from the court to the studio. It has high-rebound cushioning and ultra-light construction. As one of the hottest brands right now, particularly in athleisure, Alo’s new venture into the sneaker market is making a splash. They’re also unisex, which makes it the perfect gift for all. 

Rumpl’s Original Puffy Blanket

Rumpl’s Original Puffy Blanket is a weatherproof, all-season blanket that can go anywhere. It is made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials and uses a durable water repellent to provide protection from the elements. It’s perfect for hiking or other outdoor adventures and should keep you warm in 45-degree Fahrenheit and above weather. The company also provides a 100-night trial to allow you to test it out first.  

Solo Stove’s Mesa

Solo Stove’s Mesa tabletop fire pit allows you to easily ignite and enjoy a smokeless fire. It’s perfect for s’mores, additional warmth, or just an elevated aesthetic. The company offers a lifetime product warranty, so you can be assured that your Mesa will be around for the long haul. 

The post The 25 Best Self-Care Gifts of the Summer for Fitness & Wellness Fanatics appeared first on Athletech News.

Therabody says it’s time to play fair, announcing that it has joined forces with the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) to better understand the unique needs of female athletes. 

The deal will see Therabody become the NWSL’s official wellness technology partner, making its signature recovery devices, such as Theragun Pro, WaveRoller and RecoveryAir JetBoots, available on the sidelines at NWSL games.

The collaboration aims to give all NWSL athletes equal access to wellness technologies and education as men’s teams. As part of the partnership, Therabody is providing other recovery products to all league players, including the FDA-cleared PowerDot, which aids in alleviating period-related pain, RecoveryTherm Knee and RecoveryTherm Back and Core.

The wellness tech company recently named Emily Cole, a Duke University track and field star and sports nutrition author, as its first female NIL partner.

Although Therabody’s tech-forward recovery and support products support consumers both on and off the field, the company points to a startling stat that it hopes to change — that a mere 6% of athletic performance research focuses on women, despite women making up 40% of professional athletes.

“Our goal is to support women athletes on and off the field and to be a voice for equality around sports recovery,” said Dr. Jason Wersland, Therabody founder and chief wellness officer. “Women’s soccer is as big a world stage as there is. We are proud to be an official partner of the NWSL to help bolster the players’ self care.”

The NWSL commented that it’s excited to partner with Therabody, as both strive toward the common goal of advancing player health and safety while providing athletes with the necessary tools to succeed.

“This partnership will not only provide our players with access to the cutting-edge wellness and recovery technology they deserve as world-class athletes, but will also help to support our mission to conduct the crucially important research needed to better address our approaches to player healthcare needs, including injury prevention and recovery,” said NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman. 

The collaboration also sees NWSL chief medical officer Dr. Cindy Chang join Therabody as a medical advisor. In addition, NWSL fans will receive education and special offers on Therabody products.

Last fall, Therabody closed a growth equity round with a total financial backing of $165 million, launching eight new products designed to support whole-body recovery. The round, led by North Castle Partners, included existing investors Kevin Hart’s HartBeat Ventures and Aaron Rodgers’ RX3 Growth Partners.

More recently, Therabody announced it would provide recovery stations in all Barry’s fitness locations.

The post Therabody Partners With NWSL To Better Serve Female Athletes appeared first on Athletech News.

The benefits of barefoot training have been appreciated in mainstream fitness and wellness for at least a decade now, but most efforts to commercialize the phenomenon have focused on minimalist shoes, not the foot itself. 

Dr. Emily Splichal, a functional podiatrist and human movement specialist, got the idea to create a company that could fill that gap in the barefoot market. 

“There was a lot of attention around the shoes people were wearing to work out or athletes were wearing to train, but there was nothing out there designed to take foot function to the next level,” Dr. Splichal tells Athletech News.

In 2017, Dr. Splichal created Naboso, a sensory technology company that uses texture to optimize foot function. Naboso, which means “barefoot” in Czech, features the first-ever small nerve proprioceptive material commercially available and designed to improve posture and enhance movement. 

Naboso’s first product was a texturized training mat designed to provide a better surface for barefoot movement than a traditional yoga mat or hardwood floor. Today, Naboso offers an array of products including insoles, socks, mats and various recovery tools.

Every Naboso product features the company’s patented texture, which Dr. Splichal describes as many “little pyramids” that are designed with a specific shape, size and distance apart to target small nerve proprioceptors on the bottom of the feet.

The pyramids are essentially what give Naboso products their special powers when it comes to performance, injury prevention and recovery. Several studies have shown that specific textures can improve balance and stability by reducing medial lateral sway, for example. 

Wearing Naboso products can even help alleviate chronic foot pain and fatigue that many people experience, especially those who stand frequently for work.

“A lot of personal trainers will wear (Naboso insoles and socks) because they’re on their feet all day training clients,” Dr. Splichal noted. “They’ll notice that ever since they started using Naboso products, they can stand all day and their feet don’t hurt.”

Since launching in 2017 with the training mat, Naboso has continuously expanded its product line and improved its bottom line. Naboso’s company-wide sales have doubled every year since 2020. A key reason for that impressive growth is the wide swath of customers who can benefit from using Naboso products, whether that’s insoles, socks or recovery tools like the company’s highly popular Neuro Ball.

“We like to say that if you have feet and a pulse, you will benefit from our products,” Dr. Splichal jokes.

More specifically, Naboso’s customer base spans the “medical, wellness and performance” cohorts, Dr. Splichal explains.  

On the medical side, someone could be using Naboso products to recover from a foot injury like plantar fasciitis. They can also benefit those with neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease or stroke. For performance, Naboso has worked with athletes in almost every sport, who use the company’s products to feel more in tune with their feet so they can perform better. For similar reasons, Naboso products are also popular with pickleball enthusiasts, weightlifters and weekend warriors.

The wellness cohort includes pretty much everyone else, from new parents to personal trainers on their feet all day to people looking to improve their balance.

Currently, the majority of Naboso’s revenue comes from ecommerce sales through its website and Amazon. But the sensory technology company also has resale partnerships with a diverse group of brands and organizations in fitness, health and wellness. Pilates studios, physical therapy offices and chiropractors have been among the biggest buyers of Naboso’s products.

Naboso also licenses its technology to companies in the health, fitness and rehabilitative spaces, including Power Plate, which uses Naboso’s texture on vibration platforms, and TrueForm Runner, which uses the texture on treadmills. 

As it looks to continue gaining market share, Naboso is pushing to increase its presence in traditional gyms. Dr. Splichal believes forward-thinking gyms can offer Naboso’s products as a way to appeal to the growing pool of members who are interested in barefoot and minimalist training. 

Gyms and studios can also market Naboso products for their recovery benefits.  

Dr. Splichal explains that in addition to stimulating small nerve proprioceptors in the feet, Naboso’s patented texture has some features that directly help promote recovery. The pyramids essentially give your foot muscles a “mini massage,” the Naboso founder says. They also improve microcirculation in the feet, which offers recovery benefits. 

Some big brands in the recovery space are starting to recognize the benefits of Naboso. Therabody uses Naboso mats as part of the “whole-body wellness” treatment the company offers at its Reset locations. 

“Therabody understands the importance of the sensory connection of your feet to your overall wellness,” Dr. Splichal says of the integration. “They’re an example of how other recovery-type models can be done.”

Naboso’s relationship with Therabody is emblematic of a larger shift in the way people prioritize and think about recovery.

Today’s consumers have not only recognized the need to incorporate recovery into their fitness and wellness routines, they’ve also embraced a more holistic and scientific view of recovery that includes modalities like infrared saunas, cold plunges and percussive massage therapy. 

Naboso believes its science-backed and foot-focused products have a place in the modern recovery space. 

“For Naboso, it’s the perfect timing because people are realizing recovery has to be whole-body and whole-system,” Dr. Splichal says. “That means feet, too.”

The post For Naboso, the Timing Is Right for Foot-Focused Recovery appeared first on Athletech News.