Functional fitness and CrossFit are all about pushing limits, reducing rest periods, and maximizing power output.

But accurately measuring these critical factors during complex movements has been a long-standing challenge—until now.

A groundbreaking new device promises to change the game by offering precise measurements of resting time, moving time, and power output during functional movements.

This innovation could transform the way athletes train and optimize their performance in CrossFit and similar high-intensity workouts.

The Challenge: Measuring Rest and Power in Functional Fitness

In endurance sports, metrics like power output are relatively easy to measure. For example, rowing on an indoor rowing machine (like the Concept 2) provides clear data on wattage and effort. However, translating this kind of measurement to functional movements—such as burpees, snatches, and toes-to-bar—has been a significant challenge.

These movements involve multiple joints and planes of motion, making it difficult to accurately assess how much work is being done and how long an athlete is resting between efforts. Traditional methods simply haven’t been up to the task, leaving a gap in the tools available to CrossFit athletes and coaches.

Introducing the Solution: A Revolutionary Device

This new solution comes in the form of a small, commercially available Bluetooth device equipped with a heart rate monitor and an inertial measurement unit (IMU). While the hardware itself is not revolutionary, the software powering it is where the magic happens.

Using advanced machine learning algorithms, the software interprets raw data from the device, providing clear and actionable insights. It can accurately measure how much time an athlete spends resting versus moving during a workout and estimate the power output generated during complex, functional movements.

Testing the Device: The Experiment

To test the device’s accuracy, an experiment was conducted comparing power output during an 8-minute all-out row on a Concept 2 machine with an 8-minute adapted Cindy workout (comprising ring rows, push-ups, and air squats).

Surprisingly, the power output for both workouts was nearly identical—216 watts during the row and 215 watts during Cindy. This close correlation suggests that the device can accurately measure power output in functional movements, providing a reliable way to assess and optimize performance across different types of exercises.

Practical Applications: Transforming Training

This device has several practical applications that can significantly enhance training and performance:

1. Rest Time Monitoring:
The device automatically detects when an athlete is resting or moving, allowing for precise measurement of split times during workouts. This data can help athletes optimize their pacing and ensure they’re minimizing unnecessary rest.

2. Power Output Measurement:
By estimating power output during each movement and throughout entire workouts, the device offers insights into an athlete’s overall effort and efficiency. This can help in tailoring training to improve weak areas and enhance overall performance.

3. Weakness Detection:
Over time, the device can track power output across different workouts and movements, highlighting specific weaknesses. For example, an athlete might discover they consistently produce less power during snatches and burpees compared to rowing and wall balls. This data-driven approach allows for targeted improvement in weaker areas.

4. Rep Detection and Accuracy:
Though not the primary focus, the device could also be used to ensure accuracy in movement execution. Advanced AI could detect whether movements like squats or pull-ups are being performed correctly, potentially revolutionizing judging in competitions and online qualifiers.

The Future: Business Opportunities and Development

W Motions, the startup behind this device, is currently in its early stages. The company is seeking collaborators on the business side, as well as potential investors to help bring this innovative product to market. The potential applications of this technology are vast, with a significant market in the functional fitness space.

As the device and software continue to develop, there could be even more features and applications that further enhance its utility for athletes and coaches alike.

Conclusion

This new device represents a significant step forward in the world of functional fitness. By accurately measuring rest, moving time, and power output during complex movements, it provides athletes with the tools they need to optimize their training and performance.

For those interested in learning more or getting involved, W Motions is currently open to collaboration and investment. This innovation could be the future of functional fitness training, and now is the time to be part of it.