During the pandemic, Gary Simpson had a realization that his at-home rowing experience could benefit from connectivity. Specifically, he sought a connected fitness solution that would work with his Concept2 rowing machine, the industry’s most popular erg.

Simpson already had entrepreneurial experience, having founded Transit Wireless, which provides wireless infrastructure for the New York City subway system. Driven by his desire for a better connected rowing solution, Simpson founded myrow, which sells a 22-inch, full-color HD touchscreen tablet that attaches to and connects with the Concept2 rowing machine to provide users with at-home workouts.

Athletech News spoke with Simpson about what differentiates myrow from competitors, where myrow fits into the larger connected fitness industry and the company’s biggest challenges as it scales.

This conversation has been lightly edited for clarity and length.  

Athletech News: What differentiates myrow from competitors in the connected rowing space? 

Gary Simpson: We took the best erg on the market and are transforming it into a connected fitness machine. For existing Concept2 owners, you can upgrade your workout and keep your machine for an investment of $499 plus a monthly subscription ($29.99).

The content and features that myrow go far beyond anything that is currently available for the Concept2. We have the competitive edge on price point, compared to what is currently on the market. The Concept2 (sold separately) with the added myrow monitor is priced at about $1,500, while competitors charge between $2,500-$3,000 for an erg with a comparable screen.

If you’re in the market to buy a new rowing machine and were interested in the Concept2 but deterred by the lack of a connected fitness experience, myrow solves that problem at a compelling price point. It won’t feel like an add-on product; instead it was designed to feel like it belongs with the Concept2.

ATN: With connected fitness flux, including rowing-based brands, where do you see myrow fitting in? 

GS: With an aging population, rowing will continue to be a perfect at-home workout. At-home rowing machines offer a highly efficient full-body and low-impact workout. Rowing machines are more effective than exercise bikes and treadmills, as they target and strengthen all major muscle groups throughout the entire body, including the legs, glutes, core, arms, back and shoulders in a low-impact workout.

Rowing accomplishes calorie-burning and muscle-building. We hope to tap into the huge base of Concept 2 owners to offer an immersive connected fitness experience. In our beta testing last year, we had over 3,000 applicants (who own the Concept2) to test the product, which gives us confidence that it is something the Concept2 world will embrace. 

ATN: As a startup, what have been your biggest challenges and successes thus far? 

GS: As with all start-ups every day is a challenge, but every day is a success if you get to the next day!  We were thrilled with all the excitement and interest when we unveiled the product at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the largest electronic show in the world, and hope to take that momentum with us as we set our sights on the launch this Spring.  

ATN: What can users expect to see from myrow when it launches? 

GS: We are excited to start taking pre-orders for the product at www.myrow.com in early April and will begin shipping to consumers at the end of May. 

When we launch this Spring, the myrow tablet will come pre-loaded with over 80 video workouts and over 200 workouts and training plans (non-videos) and will have a constantly growing library with a variety of classes. In addition to the instructor-led workouts, there are also group rows, challenges, the ability to create your own workouts and preset workouts, including Concept2’s “Workout of the Day.”

 The tablet also provides the user with a deep level of metrics and analytics to help users improve their performance and achieve their fitness goals. 

The post Myrow Founder Sees Bright Future for Connected Rowing 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

Hurom has been manufacturing juicers since 1974 and approaches juicing with a science-first approach. The Hurom H400 Easy Clean Slow Juicer is no exception. It rotates at a speed of 43 revolutions per minute to mimic the motion of a hand squeezing juice and has the brand’s largest volume of any self-feeding hopper yet, which reduces a consumer’s need to chop produce finely.

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa is affiliated with the brand, and credits juicing with revamping his diet and improving his play on the field.

Athletech News took the Hurom H400 for a spin to see if this juicer is a worthwhile addition to your wellness arsenal.

Pros

As someone who doesn’t usually consume juice, I was worried I would find the product overly sweet, like many grocery brands. However, although it was not pulpy, the juice was noticeably different than store-bought brands. The juicer minimizes the breakdown and oxidation of fruits and vegetables, which retains much of the produce’s nutrients and gives it a more natural taste.  

Even as someone inexperienced in juicing, it was easy to figure out combinations of ingredients that tasted as delicious as drinks one might purchase in a health food store or smoothie store. Adding ingredients with a kick—like lemon, turmeric, or ginger rounded out more standard produce ingredients like celery, kale, apples, and oranges. The ability to make fresh nut milk at home, like almond, oat, or cashew milk, can reduce the number of trips to the grocery store and revamp your daily routine.

The Hurom website has an extensive list of recipes that users can explore, ranging from fruit juices to pesto to soup. It only took minutes to get a full cup of juice and was extremely quiet—I barely noticed the motor’s sound. 

Although many juicers have cleanups that are time-intensive, the Hurom H400’s only took around 5-10 minutes. The pieces of the juicer detach and reattach easily. The pulp container is spacious, which allows for fewer disposals while juicing. I was able to produce a full glass of juice (~12 ounces) from filling the chamber with fruits and vegetables. It was also easy to add more produce while the juicer was still running, which was useful when I was still figuring out recipes and my flavor preferences. 

The pulp also comes out in a consistent texture, and Hurom provides recipes for the pulp, including ravioli and baked veggie crackers. For those who have concerns about juicing’s lack of fiber, consuming the pulp is a convenient and healthy way to get back that fiber without waste.  

Cons 

Although this is not unique to the Hurom H400, the product requires a significant amount of produce for a serving of juice. For example, one serving of apple and carrot juice requires two large carrots and a large apple. One cup of almond milk requires 1 cup of almonds. For multiple servings of juice, you’ll need to stock up on produce. 

Juicing does require some prep time, as well. I tried to put larger pieces of grapefruit into the H400, and it did not start properly. Cutting produce into smaller pieces is generally necessary to start the machine. However, 2-inch pieces cubes of produce were generally small enough to get the machine working, which was easy in terms of preparation. Otherwise, the juicer could handle dense fruits and vegetables if combined with more watery produce. 

Because the juice is not pasteurized, it can last up to 72 hours depending on the ingredients. For those who want to produce a lot of juice and store it for the week, at-home juicing might not be the best solution. 

For those on a budget, the Hurom H400 retails for $699. Many other premium slow juicers are similarly priced. Some budget offerings retail for as low as $100 but lack Hurom’s advanced masticating technology. The machine is also large (6.6 x 10.3 x 18.5 inches), taking up a nontrivial amount of counter space, which could be a consideration for those who live in smaller apartments. It also weighs around 15 pounds, so storing it away is possible but likely not preferable for many. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Hurom H400 Easy Clean Slow Juicer is a fantastic option for those looking to bring premium juicing to their daily routine with easy cleanup. 

Read more ATN Product Reviews here.

The post Product of the Week: NFL’s Nick Bosa Swears by the Hurom H400 Juicer. Should You? appeared first on Athletech News.

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.

Building on the success of its annual Fitness Expo, Strong New York is hosting a weekend wellness experience to foster community in the industry. Attendees can experience the event for the entire weekend, from March 22-24, or just for the day on Saturday, March 23^rd. 

“I want to give our community an opportunity to connect and learn from the best fitness professionals, thought leaders, and top brands in the space, and create a space for brands to connect with the audience who needs them the most,” said Strong New York founder Kenny Santucci. “Our community is educated and always looking for the best new thing, whether that’s a product, a workout, healthy snacks, or new recovery tools. There’s something for everyone within the Strong New York community.” 

The Strong New York Wellness Retreat’s programming includes workouts, guest speakers and workshops. The event will offer running, bootcamp and yoga sessions, as well as recovery services like cold plunges and sauna.

Guest speaker Matt Long will speak on resilienc in “The Power of I Will.” There will also be intention-setting and mindfulness workshops for mental health. Full weekend attendees will also have the opportunity to surf. All attendees will receive a gift bag from sponsors including Vuori, Celsius, Owyn, Slate, Redmond Salt, and more. 

The event will take place at the Rockaway Hotel in Queens, New York, and transportation can be provided for Saturday-only attendees.

“Hosting a wellness retreat in our own backyard of the Rockaways felt like a natural extension and something that could reinvigorate all of us during the prime winter season, whether that’s trying something new or spending some time outside the city,” Santucci said. “It’s an opportunity to challenge yourself, set new goals, nourish your body with healthy foods, get outside of your comfort zone, relax and reset, and meet new people who have the same values, goals and mindset as you.” 

Aside from the wellness retreat, Strong New York has big plans for 2024. The organization will host a series of events and activations in New York, the Hamptons, and other local cities before its annual expo, which will take place in Manhattan’s The Glasshouse on Saturday, October 5^th.

“We want to make health and wellness a more essential and accessible part of the everyday New Yorkers’ lives,” Santucci added.

Tickets are available here. 

The post Kenny Santucci’s Strong New York To Host Wellness Retreat  appeared first on Athletech News.

TRX Training announced a new partnership with the Navy SEAL Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing vital support to the Naval Special Warfare (NSW) community and their families.

In 2023, TRX initiated a $2 million gear donation to the Navy SEAL Foundation and will continue to support the organization through offerings like exclusive discounts on products. 

“We are honored to partner with the Navy SEAL Foundation and support the courageous men and women who serve in the Naval Special Warfare community,” said Jack Daly, CEO of TRX. “Our company has deep roots in the military, and we are committed to giving back to those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”

The Navy SEAL Foundation provides a comprehensive set of over thirty programs to warriors, veterans and families of Naval Special Warfare (NSW). The programs are under the five Pillars of Support: Strength, Resilience, Health, Education, and Community. Programs help members reduce stressors, address tragedy and aid with recovery, enhance physical and mental wellness, and provide scholarships and development opportunities.

“We are grateful for TRX’s generous support and commitment to the NSW community,” said Robin King, CEO of the Navy SEAL Foundation. “Jack and Metka Daly have been long-time supporters of the Navy SEAL Foundation and with TRX’s place in the community it highlights the utmost dedication and distinction of the brand for both active and veteran service members.”

TRX’s support of the U.S. military extends beyond philanthropy. The company, founded by former Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick, has a history of providing training equipment to all branches of the military. Because the brand’s functional training products are portable and versatile, they’re ideal for helping military personnel stay in shape on the go. 

The post TRX Deepens Commitment to Navy SEAL Foundation 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

Dagne Dover was founded in 2013 by female entrepreneurs Jessy Dover, Deepa Gandhi, and Melissa Mash. With a goal of bringing great design to bags, Dagne Dover creates backpacks, duffel bags, tote bags and more, all made of high-quality, durable materials with lots of storage in sleek styles and neutral colors.

Athletes and fitness fanatics typically put their gear through the wringer and need bags that will withstand the sweatiest of workouts and the busiest of days.

Athletech News tested Dagne Dover’s Work-to-Workout Kit, including the Dakota Backpack and the Landon Carryall, to see if the brand could meet those high standards. 

Pros 

Dagne Dover puts care and thoughtfulness into every detail and pocket in their bags. The brand uses a buttery neoprene material that is extremely durable. Even on a few days when I got caught in a storm, the material kept my electronics safe. It also did not rip or tear, even when I filled the bags to capacity and lugged them around New York City via public transit. The material was soft but had enough structure to keep the Dakota Backpack upright when placed on the ground or in a locker at a fitness studio or gym. 

Both the Dakota Backpack and the Landon Carryall had enough perfectly placed pockets to allow follow-through on organizational aspirations. There are perfectly placed pockets in the side of the Dakota Backpack, just above the hips, for easy access to an ID badge or gym card. All Dakota backpacks have a smaller inside pouch perfect for an iPad, and the largest size has a laptop compartment that can also fit folders, paperwork or other devices.

The Carryall is named appropriately: it can fit sneakers, workout gear, clothes to change into afterward, and plenty of toiletries. There are interior side pockets for tech accessories and a covert back pocket for one’s phone.

Both the Dakota Backpack and the Landon Carryall also come with smaller bags, some of which are made of neoprene and others are perfect as laundry bags post-workout. The Carryall has internal water bottle pockets, which minimizes the chances of bottles falling out of bags during transit. Both bags are hand-washable and hold up well after several washes. 

The Dagne Dover logo is large enough that it is recognizable, but not so flashy that it takes away from the brand’s understated aesthetic. Its colors are similarly elegant but earth-toned, and most products have five or more color options. 

Cons

After putting both bags through the wringer, carrying heavy items, sweaty clothes and more, the only damage was that the Dakota Backpack’s zipper occasionally got caught on the laptop pocket and caused some fraying.

Wear and tear were also more visible on lighter-colored bags, so if you expect to need extra durability, opt for a darker color. Otherwise, the products were among the most thoughtfully designed, stylish and durable bags that I had ever come across. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, if you’re in the market for a new backpack, gym bag, or both, a Dagne Dover bag is the investment that will last years to come through even the busiest days and the sweatiest workouts. 

Read more ATN Product Reviews here.

The post Product of the Week: Dagne Dover Bags Can Go From Office to Gym appeared first on Athletech News.

Aescape has launched its whitespace innovation: the first commercially available, fully automated massage experience. The company also announced a partnership with luxury lifestyle and fitness operator Equinox, debuting its massage tables in select locations across New York City this spring.

Backed by $80 million in funding, Aescape aims to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of massages through advanced technology. .

“Aescape aims to make massage an accessible, regular part of rest and recovery, no longer reserved for indulgence or injury,” said Eric Litman, Founder and CEO. “Working alongside massage therapists over the last seven years, we’ve honed our technology to ensure it caters to diverse body types and lifestyles. It’s designed for anyone looking to book last-minute, or looking for control over their massage when therapists aren’t always available.” 

The technology is a fully automated, artificial intelligence-driven massage table. It scans the user’s body and generates over one million 3D data points to accurately map a user’s body on the table.

Using the 3D scan, the tool identifies key points on the body for a targeted massage. Aescape includes a touchscreen underneath the massage table that users can control to identify pressure points, target areas and music selections. The experience is also customizable—the platform can remember user preferences for future massages.  

Equinox Embraces Recovery

At Equinox, anyone can experience Aescape for $60 for 30 minutes, which will also include a free day pass to the gym for non-members. Beginning in June, the technology will be made available in ten locations in New York City. 

“We’re relentlessly focused on how we can help our community of high-performing individuals live better, healthier lives,” said James Gu, senior director, Equinox Spa. “As we continue to innovate with science-backed preparation and recovery modalities and new technologies, we are excited to offer Aescape. This personalized and accessible format will help our members further integrate recovery into their fitness routines.”

Disrupting the Massage Market

Litman is joined on the Aescape executive team by Sam Bowen, who worked in hardware at Amazon; Becca Valle, who worked in global marketing at Meta, Airbnb, and the New York Knicks; and Alex Linde, who worked in product at Uber, eBay, and Yahoo!

To develop the product, the Aescape team worked with thousands of individuals to develop a solution that caters to all body types and needs. By working with everyone from casual gym-goers to athletes, the company created a solution it says can cater to all audiences. 

The massage therapy market is valued at around $19 billion, and recovery solutions have never seemed more popular, including in gyms and fitness facilities as a value-add or premium membership service. The industry, which is also facing a shortage of therapists, is primed for disruption. Aescape offers an always-available, consistent massage, and aims to drive value for spas, hotels and wellness centers. 

Aescape is launching an early access program for New Yorkers, inviting participants to be among the first to try out the futuristic massage experience while providing feedback to refine the service further. The company is also actively seeking new partnerships. 

The post Equinox Locations Add Aescape, a Fully Automated Massage Bed appeared first on Athletech News.

ClassPass has unveiled its latest innovation: the integration of food and beverage options into its bookable experiences. With tens of thousands of studios, gyms and spas already on the platform, ClassPass is now introducing ways for its members to refuel after workouts or wellness visits. 

“After we expanded into beauty and wellness offerings in 2018, we were eager to continue to find ways to bring more experiences to our members. Food and beverage always felt like the natural next step,” said Fritz Lanman, CEO of Mindbody and ClassPass. “Our members have come to realize wellness is so much more than fitness – and it means something different to everyone. We are excited to continue to expand our offerings to fit our members’ wellness lifestyles.”

Since its founding in 2013, ClassPass has evolved from a pure fitness booking platform to a more holistic system. With the new launch, ClassPass users in New York and Miami can now redeem their credits for snacks and meals at participating locations. Additional restaurants and eateries in new cities will be rolling out in the next few months, the platform said.

ClassPass was acquired by Mindbody in 2021, after a tumultuous couple of years during the pandemic. Now that in-person experiences are back and bigger than ever, the platform has been capitalizing on consumers’ desire for holistic, community-driven in-person experiences.

Entering the food and beverage brings ClassPass a step closer to being a one-stop shop for health and wellness-focused consumers. By entering the wellness-focused food and beverage category, the platform and its parent brand Mindbody are looking to disrupt the a that’s been dominated by established players like UberEats DoorDash, and even local smoothie shops. 

The post ClassPass Expands Into Food & Beverage in Holistic Wellness Play 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.

StimScience, the neuroscience-based sleep company, has appointed Tim Rosa, a former Fitbit executive, as its new CEO.

Rosa’s appointment marks a step forward for the company’s flagship product line, Somnee, a personalized, smart sleep headband that employs non-invasive, closed-loop neurostimulation to enhance sleep quality and duration.

“With StimScience, the team has pioneered and delivered lab-grade technology in a sleep headband that accurately maps and measures brainwave patterns and applies personalized tES neurostimulation that nudges the brain to sleep,” Rosa said.

With a proven track record in launching world-class brands and products, Rosa is aiming to guide StimScience through its next phase of growth and innovation. As the former chief marketing officer of Fitbit, he scaled the company from a small startup into a household name, with over 140 million devices sold in 100-plus countries. 

“There’s a lot of exciting clinical research and momentum validating the importance of sleep fitness and its impact on cognitive performance, athletic performance, mental health, general health, and even weight loss,” Rosa said. “Wearables have done a great job educating consumers on their general sleep stage trends and insights. The challenge for most consumer-grade devices has been creating a closed-loop, lab-grade diagnostic in combination with a personalized therapeutic that adapts with the user and ultimately improves sleep onset, duration, and/or depth.”

Rosa added that he’s “excited to partner with wearables, sleep products and services, and healthcare to close that loop and improve outcomes for 100 million consumers.”

The Future of Sleep Science?

As the first company to approach sleep improvement through personalized closed-loop neurostimulation, StimScience claims its device is proven to cut the time it takes to fall asleep in half and improve sleep quality with only 15 minutes of use. It also claims Somnee is four times as effective as a melatonin pill, twice as effective as cognitive behavior therapy, and one-and-a-half as effective as Ambien in improving sleep efficiency and duration. Somnee markets itself as the “future of sleep.”

Rosa’s recruitment was backed by Dr. Matthew Walker, PhD, the author of New York Times bestseller “Why We Sleep: The New Science of Sleep and Dreams,” and chief sleep advisor at Somnee.

“Sleep is increasingly recognized as one of the most fundamental habits not only for our day-to-day functioning, concentration, mood, and body health, but also for continued brain and body wellness as we age,” Walker noted.

Venture capital firm Khosla Ventures also supports StimScience.

“We backed Somnee because the team had every component needed to bring forward clinical-grade consumer technology to change the face of sleep. Since our initial investment, this thesis is proving itself out,” said Vinod Khosla, a tech investor and founder of Khosla Ventures. “With Tim at the helm, Somnee can now scale to bridge a foundational health gap and cement itself as an iconic brand that carries weight with consumers, the medical and sleep health communities.” 

The post Somnee Sleep Headband Maker Hires Tim Rosa as CEO appeared first on Athletech News.

Solidcore has redefined Pilates by upping the ante. The popular boutique fitness brand is known for its 50-minute, high-intensity resistance training workout that uses reformer machines and for its focus on “breaking down muscles to failure” to develop strength.

Although it uses Pilates-inspired reformer machines, Solidcore (officially branded as [solidcore]) makes clear that the workout is not strictly Pilates. Instead, it’s a core-focused strength workout that targets different body parts based on each class’s programming.

Athletech News tested Solidcore to see if the “world’s hardest workout” can live up to its hype. 

Inside the Workout

Even as someone who works out frequently, I found Solidcore workouts challenging and scalable. The instructors speak throughout the entire class and give instructions to up the ante and lower the intensity for varying skill levels. The brand now offers a “Starter50” class to help beginners with foundational movements.

“This is for anyone who is new to the workout, revisiting after an injury, or anyone who wants something slower paced with more time dedicated to their form,” Taylor Bogenschuetz, director of training and development at Solidcore, told Athletech News,

The workouts begin and end with core exercises, which often take the form of planks. One of the best parts of Solidcore is that the instructors offer a more difficult version of the workout upfront and then offer modifications. This creates a challenging baseline for most class-goers, with the instructor offering ways to scale up and scale down for most workouts.

Strength Training in a Different Way

Solidcore accesses often-unused muscles through the reformer machines, which can help develop overall strength and stability. Because of the usage of these neglected muscles, the instructors give instructions on how many springs to apply (which changes the resistance level) based on the number of Solidcore classes each user has attended.

As a newbie to Solidcore, I sometimes found those instructions to be too easy based on strength I had built outside of the studio, but the instructors continued to encourage leveling up or down.

Because it focuses more on stability and toning, Solidcore likely will not replace traditional strength training in most people’s routines, but it will likely improve performance in all types of sports and workouts, as well as tone and lengthen muscles. 

I also appreciated Solidcore’s no-frills nature. There were not too many mantras reiterated in the classes, apart from its mission of embracing failure. The class was one of the more efficient I’ve taken. Even though I didn’t sweat too much in each workout, I found myself sore for days afterward. 

Price Points

One of the biggest downsides of Solidcore is its premium price point. Pricing varies by location, but in larger cities, it costs around $40 for a single class.

In some New York City locations, a monthly unlimited pass is around $430 at several popular locations, which comes out to $26 per class if attending four times per week. Solidcore does offer discounts for students, teachers, healthcare workers and military personnel, which can be around 25% off.

Another downside of the studio is that it does not provide showers to class-goers, unlike many competitors. The bathrooms are stocked with hair and skin cleansing products for freshening up. Although class-goers likely will not sweat as much as they would at a HIIT workout class, for those heading right to work or another event, this could be an inconvenience. 

Lastly, I (and some others I observed in the classes I attended) had issues with the reformers—namely the reformer handles. In one class, I had to switch machines because the handles were not working properly, but the instructor helped me do so promptly. It seemed like the cables for the handles sometimes became caught within the machine and did not pull properly. 

The Verdict

Solidcore is an efficient, effective workout that, while not cheap, could be one of the most challenging boutique fitness classes for those looking to strengthen and stabilize all muscles. 

The post Studio Spotlight: Solidcore Will Challenge Your Mind & Muscles appeared first on Athletech News.

TRX Training celebrated its 20-year anniversary by making history, hosting the largest suspension training class ever recorded and setting a new Guinness World Records mark.

The event took place during TRX’s International Training Summit at the 2004 Summer Olympics grounds in Athens, Greece. A group of 422 participants came together to celebrate this milestone in the world of functional training. 

“The size of this record-breaking suspension training class in Athens demonstrates TRX’s global leadership in functional training,” said TRX CEO, Jack Daly. “TRX has been the most versatile piece of exercise equipment available since US Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick brought it to market 20 years ago.”

The TRX Training Summit, held in collaboration with one of Greece’s top fitness groups, Alterlife, attracted over 600 attendees, making it the largest summit in TRX’s two-decade history. Fitness instructors, coaches, and enthusiasts from around the world congregated at the Olympic basketball arena for two days of immersive training and coaching sessions aimed at inspiring the next generation of TRX Trainers.

The Guinness World Records title is a signal that TRX is committed to continued global expansion.

TRX has had an eventful past year, launching new products in partnerships with top fitness brands. The company created custom suspension trainers in collaboration with Xponential Fitness brands YogaSix and Club Pilates as well as Orangetheory Fitness.

Last year, TRX acquired YBell Fitness, which makes a kettlebell-dumbbell combination product, and signed a multi-year lease in Delray Beach for a 12,000-square-foot property, moving its global headquarters to Florida from San Francisco. The move was part of the brand’s strategic shift after its acquisition by Daly, which also saw Hetrick return to the company he founded as its chairman.

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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.

Innovation in gym and studio software management tools has emerged as a key trend at recent fitness industry trade shows including IHRSA, with the market becoming increasingly competitive. 

This year’s IHRSA 2024 will showcase what’s next for some of the biggest software players in the space, with some exciting announcements and unveilings planned. 

Athletech News spoke with Xplor Technologies, Club OS, ABC Fitness, Club Automation and ClubReady to give you a sense of what’s coming at IHRSA 2024, and what the future will hold for fitness brands looking to leverage the best software tools to grow their businesses and connect with their members. 

Xplor Plans Industry’s ‘First True Growth Platform’

Xplor Technologies has already had a big year but is looking towards more announcements. It recently acquired Membr, a top management software platform for gyms and health clubs. The acquisition expanded Xplor’s purview beyond just the boutique studio space, which it serves with its Mariana Tek product, and into gyms and health clubs. 

However, Andy Swansburg, Xplor’s Chief Product Officer for Fitness and Wellbeing, told Athletech News that the company still has a “maniacal” focus on becoming a growth platform for boutique studios and is building a product called Xplor Growth. 

“There are not a lot of people who are making a data model that is flexible and accessible and then empowering the entire stack with it,” Swansburg said of the new launch. 

Fitness brands are trying to grow through the consumer journey, ensuring that at every touchpoint, users have the best chance of becoming brand evangelists. 

“We’ve built the first true growth platform in the industry with a few different layers,” Swansburg explained. “The first layer is the fitness industry’s first consumer data platform. Without a unified view of your consumer, it’s difficult to create a customer journey.” 

Bringing a consumer data platform to the fitness world can unlock new potential by allowing users to rate experiences, so businesses can evaluate their operations more easily. Xplor also added gamification to drive even more engagement. 

“Brands can set up challenges, consumer streaks and milestones,” Swansburg said. “We’re going to be building an analytics platform on top of that. The trend is towards, ‘Every touchpoint matters in this world.’” 

To generate excitement for IHRSA, Xplor is hosting its first Mariana Tek Summit on March 5th in Los Angeles. The event will feature networking opportunities, breakout sessions, and panel discussions. 

“The industry is probably five, if not more, years behind some of the other industries in the world, which is funny because I don’t know another business where someone shows up to a location five days a week,” Swansburg said, noting the high levels of engagement fitness consumers tend to have with brands. “We have so much data. All this innovation is a big step forward to power engagement.” 

Club OS Teases a Major Release

Club OS also has big announcements in the pipeline for IHRSA 2024. 

“This will be the most significant product release announcement in the company’s history, and we’re excited to reveal it for the first time with the fitness community at IHRSA this year,” said Nick Hahn, VP of Product & Development at Club OS.

While the company couldn’t yet provide details about the product launch, Club OS teased how the announcements would tie into the platform’s larger strategic goals and industry trends. 

“There are few solutions to provide a single platform that manages the entire member journey,” Hahn said. “The vision for our team is to provide a comprehensive yet intuitive end-to-end solution that covers as much of the member journey as each customer needs.” 

“Our flexible ecosystem enables our team to take an agile approach to helping our customers overcome key challenges such as member churn, staff turnover, tough competition, and economic uncertainties,” Hahn added.

ABC Fitness Leans Into AI, Personalization

ABC Fitness, the world’s largest fit tech company with a burgeoning portfolio of software platforms catering to clubs, gyms and studios, is planning to showcase exciting advancements in AI and personalization. 

“During IHRSA 2024, we are excited to host an Innovation Lab that will offer a preview into our latest AI investments across our platforms which leverage our leadership in member and club data,” said Cristine Kao, Chief Marketing Officer at ABC. “Our booth will also showcase how automation can drive world-class personalization at scale, from attracting and retaining members to running your club 24/7.” 

ABC will also showcase “some exciting new features” including “tailored habits & nutrition coaching, personalized members goals, and automation to convert more prospects into clients,” Kao shared. 

Kao will be onstage on March 6th at IHRSA, sharing the results of ABC Fitness’ annual consumer research and global membership data as well as discussing the potential of AI in the industry.

“The acceleration of AI is happening at an exciting time in the evolution of fitness technology across an ever-growing digital landscape, such as wearables and tracking devices,” Kao said. “At ABC Fitness, we are carefully evaluating the potential for AI technologies to evolve from supporting simple administrative tasks to far more powerful applications.”

ClubReady Empowers Brands To Connect With Their Members

ClubReady is focusing on the potential of customization and connection. With customers like Pure Barre, YogaSix, and CycleBar, the software platform helps streamline brands’ operations through lead management, member retention and billing solutions. 

“New integrations continue to increase the power and value of ClubReady for growing entrepreneurs,” said Devin Meister, a Demand Generation Manager for Clubessential Holdings, the parent company of ClubReady. “For example, integrations between ClubReady Connect messaging system and Concierge services enable fitness operators to optimize their staff hours for both presale and post-sale lead conversion in a seamless solution with proven workflows.”

“Our mobile app offerings enable brands to take control of their brand and extend their connections and engagement with push notifications to members anywhere, and extensive reporting for staff,” Meister added.

ClubReady plans to make announcements about reporting features and its mobile app in the near future. 

“ClubReady continues to build and expand our industry-leading solutions and services, enhancing operators’ ability to engage members and prospects, empower staff members, and drive actions for success,” Meister said. 

Club Automation Gets Personal 

Club Automation, an all-in-one club software management system, will provide an innovative, interactive experience at IHRSA. 

“How often has a fitness software company invited you to try what it feels like to become a new member, purchase personal training, schedule sessions, book spaces, and explore a mobile app – as seen from the eyes of your members?” said Tom Antosik, VP at Club Automation. 

Club operators can step into their members’ shoes and try Club Automation’s online registration and mobile experience. The brand is focused on personalized, interactive touchpoints that showcase how its offerings elevate experiences through innovations. 

“From checking in at the club and purchasing packages to scheduling sessions and updating payment information, our team is ready to show off an end-to-end sign-up process that creates that smooth onboarding journey prospective members can expect with Club Automation,” Antosik said.

The post IHRSA 2024 Software Rundown: All About the Member Experience appeared first on Athletech News.

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ClassPass was founded in 2013 by Payal Kadakia and Mary Biggins and has since shaken up the fitness and wellness industry. Acquired by Mindbody in 2021, the subscription service allows users to book classes and experiences at thousands of studios, gyms, salons, and spas using credits. 

Classes are available in more than 2,500 cities worldwide, and the service also comes with over 4,000 on-demand workouts. 

Now that in-person workouts are back and seemingly bigger than ever, Athletech News decided to give ClassPass a try.

Pros 

For those who appreciate variety, ClassPass certainly delivers. It not only offers mainstream, nationwide studio brands like Barry’s, Solidcore, and SoulCycle, but local establishments as well. The service is best for those who want to step outside their usual routine to try out more health and wellness businesses in their area. One of the best parts of using the app was getting to try all the studios in my area that I had long overlooked.  

Each class or service is a listed number of credits, which depends on the time of day, user demand, and the number of times a user has visited.  Membership costs range from as little as 6 credits to as many as 100 credits per month, which ranges from around $20-$200. Users can browse classes by credits, and many studios have a “first-timers” deal, so trying out different workouts and services is encouraged. 

I found the process of hunting for deals enjoyable. If you have flexibility around timing, ClassPass could be a great fit, as credits go a lot further during “off-hour” workouts. There were also limited-time deals that provided great value. For example, some studios or services had a limited-time discount. ClassPass is also great for travelers, as it works in most major cities, so users can maintain their workout routine on the road. 

The service also limits the number of workouts you can do at certain studios, which forces variety. Class reviews were moderately helpful for finding new spots, but most of the reviews were very positive: I was hard-pressed to find an overall studio rating under 4.7/5. There were also no written reviews, which could be a good value-add for the platform. Adding friends on the service also allows users to see where their connections are going for inspiration, which I also found to be a fun way to align workout schedules. 

ClassPass also offers beauty and wellness services, which are easy to book. It requires a user request to book a service for a specific time, which the business then approves. My approvals were quick, generally just several hours, and I liked that I could make a reservation digitally even at small businesses. 

Cons

Many of the downsides of ClassPass are area- and preference-dependent. For example, class credit costs unsurprisingly vary a lot by area. A class in New York will likely be more expensive than one in Washington D.C. or Boston. Convenience also obviously varies by location; for example, in certain parts of New York City, there are very few businesses available on ClassPass, but in others, there is one on every block. 

Most of the “hidden gem” classes are around 3-4 credits in bigger cities, larger studios are 5-10 credits, and popular workouts like Solidcore, SoulCycle, and CorePower Yoga are 10-14+ credits. The popular studios also book up quickly in some areas.

One downside of the service is that the number of credits a user can roll over month to month is dependent on membership tier. For example, if you buy 18 credits per month, you can only roll over 18 credits. For those hoping to save up credits for a larger service like a massage, that might not be possible if you have a lower-credit membership. Adding credits is possible but might not make sense financially depending on the desired service.

Lastly, although this is typical in the world of workout studios, cancellation fees are high. This provides built-in accountability, but also might not be best for those who have variable schedules. 

Final Thoughts 

Overall, ClassPass is a great service that will add variety to your workout and wellness routines. For those with flexible schedules, credits will likely go further, but it can drive value for all users who have enough participating businesses in their area. 

Read more ATN Product Reviews here.

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Orangetheory Fitness and Hannah Berner have partnered to make the fitness community more welcoming using comedy.

The “WTF is OTF?!” comedy show is an experiential marketing event that aims to build community by critiquing several aspects of today’s fitness culture. The “roast” represents a significant departure from traditional fitness marketing and community building by critiquing aspects of today’s fitness culture.

“This WTF is OTF?! Comedy Event is going to be epic,” Berner, a popular comedian and entertainer with 2.8 million followers on TikTok, said before the show. “Expect laughs, roasts and maybe a little sweat. I know firsthand what it’s like to be in a bit of a fitness limbo, and all of the fads swirling around at the start of the year don’t help. What Orangetheory helped me to realize is that sweating it out doesn’t have to be too serious, and this partnership proves that while answering all of our biggest fitness WTFs.”

One of the biggest barriers to gym participation is the intimidation and misconception surrounding fitness culture. By partnering with Berner, a comedian known for her straightforward and relatable humor, Orangetheory hopes to break down such barriers. The WTF is OTF?! event aims to roast the fitness industry’s clichés and fads, making fun of the space’s unrealistic standards and strange trends. 

“Nearly half of Americans set out to improve their fitness this year. Yet, we also know that an estimated 80% of people part ways with their resolutions after mid-February,” noted Ellen Latham, creator and co-founder of Orangetheory. “At a time when many are feeling defeated, we hope a bit of lighthearted fun can remind people that we’re all in this together. And that ultimately, what matters most in a sea of fleeting fads and unrealistic expectations is moving in ways that feel healthy and right for each person.”

WTF is OTF?! took place in Orangetheory’s Manhattan-East 39^th Street studio on Wednesday, February 28^th, with doors opening at 6 pm. After the event, attendees were welcome to join Berner in a one-hour Orangetheory workout.

The event was also live-streamed on Berner’s TikTok, @hannahberner, to encourage real-time engagement and allow a broader audience to join the conversation. 

This article was updated after the event.

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Samsung officially introduced the Galaxy Ring, its latest innovation in wearables, at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona. The new device marks the South Korean tech giant’s first venture into the smart ring category and the emergence of a key competitor for market leaders like Oura.

The Galaxy Ring comes equipped with a variety of sensors designed to monitor key health metrics such as heart rate, sleep patterns, respiratory rate and the time it takes for a user to fall asleep. The information will populate what Samsung calls “MyVitality Score,” which offers personalized health insights based on these different metrics. 

Despite the arrival of a new competitor, Oura CEO Tom Hale called Samsung’s entry into the smart ring space a positive for the industry as a whole.

“New players entering the space is validation for the category and drives us to aim higher to serve our members and community,” Hale told TechCrunch.

Although Samsung has smartphones and smartwatches, the Galaxy Ring caters to different consumer needs, noted Hon Pak, head of the digital health team at Samsung Electronics.

“Our own customers told us, I want choice. I want the ability to have other forms of wearables to measure health,” Pak told CNBC. “And some want to wear the watch, some want to wear the watch and the ring and get benefit from both. Some just want more simplicity.”

The Galaxy Ring is designed to work seamlessly with Samsung’s smartwatches, providing users with a comprehensive overview of their health when used in tandem. One of the most anticipated features of the ring is its ability to monitor noninvasive glucose levels and blood pressure, a significant advancement in health technology. Samsung is also researching how best to use artificial intelligence to give deeper insights into a person’s health. 

“Imagine (a) large language model, acting as my digital assistant, while looking at the context of my medical records, my physiological data, my engagement with a mobile device, the wearables during all of that … begins to bring greater insights and personalization opportunities,” Pak said. “A digital assistant coach is (…) absolutely needed.” 

The smart ring market could grow to $1 billion or more by the 2030s, according to industry estimates. Samsung’s entrance into the space seems to be a validation of the market’s growth potential.

Oura, the category’s leader by far, has around 100 granted patents, with almost 30 pending patents, which could suggest potential intellectual property disputes down the line between major players.

In addition to brands like Movano (Evie Ring) and RingConn looking to capture market share by offering differentiating features like a focus on women’s health and no subscription fees, there are rumors that Apple could look to enter the space with a smart ring of its own.

The post Samsung Unveils Galaxy Ring. Can the Tech Giant Challenge Oura? 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.

Researchers from the University of Washington have introduced the thermal earring, a piece of smart tech they say could redefine how we monitor our health.

The device continuously monitors earlobe temperature to provide more insights into users’ health in a fashionable and discreet manner. Co-lead authors Yujia (Nancy) Liu and Qiuyue (Shirley) Xue conducted the research. 

Like the smart ring, the thermal earring combines fashion and functionality. Similar to a paperclip in size and weight, it includes a magnetic clip that attaches one temperature sensor to the earlobe and another that dangles below to gauge room temperature. It can also be customized with designs made of resin, like flowers and gemstones, without compromising its accuracy. It has a twenty-eight-day battery life, which is far longer than many competitors. 

The research team focused their work on the limitations of current wearables and proposed earrings as a stylish and comfortable alternative. Earlobes, Xue discovered, provide a more consistent temperature reading compared to hands or wrists. In small proof-of-concept tests, the earrings were less variable compared to comparable smartwatches. 

“I wear a smartwatch to track my personal health, but I’ve found that a lot of people think smartwatches are unfashionable or bulky and uncomfortable,” Xue told the University of Washington. “I also like to wear earrings, so we started thinking about what unique things we can get from the earlobe. We found that sensing the skin temperature on the lobe, instead of a hand or wrist, was much more accurate.”

The thermal earring can detect changes related to stress, eating, exercise and even ovulation. Xue and her team of researchers are looking into expanding the earring’s capabilities to include heart rate and activity monitoring and possible sustainable power sources. The device is not yet commercially available but could disrupt the jewelry wearable space. 

The wearables space has been hot lately, with Oura, Apple and Whoop all making waves and Samsung poised to enter the market with its Galaxy Ring, reportedly set for release this summer.

Brands like Oura, Apple and Whoop continue to evolve the technology behind their products, with new and improved features like Whoop Coach and Apple’s new mental health offerings. Temperature monitoring has become more popular than ever, with some wearables like the Oura Ring using it for natural birth control methods and cycle tracking. 

The post Could Smart Earrings Shake Up the Wearables Space? Researchers Think So 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.

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