Remember when you had to go to the gym, put on a pair of running shoes, and hope for the best? Well, those days are long gone. Thanks to modern technology, there are now a plethora of gadgets and gizmos that can help you stay safe while working out. Because of the need for safety, many gyms and fitness centers have turned to using high-tech equipment to create a safer environment for their members.
Here are a few examples of how technology makes fitness safer for everyone.
Smartwatches
One of the most popular fitness-related technologies today is the smartwatch. These devices not only track your steps, heart rate, and calories burned, but they also come equipped with GPS tracking and emergency features that can help keep you safe in case of an accident. For example, if you take a spill while out on a run, your smartwatch will be able to automatically call 911 and provide them with your location.
Most smartwatch makers have also incorporated fall detection into their devices. This feature uses the accelerometer and gyroscope to detect when you’ve taken a hard fall. The watch will vibrate and display an alert if a fall is detected. You can then choose to call for help or dismiss the alert. It’s an excellent feature for those worried about taking a tumble while exercising.
Online Personal Trainers
Not every fitness enthusiast is comfortable working out in a public gym. If you’re someone who prefers to work out in the privacy of your own home, you can now hire an online personal trainer. These professionals can create personalized workout plans and provide real-time feedback and support via video chat. You’ll never have to worry about working out alone or feeling lost in a group fitness class again.
Just make sure that you work with someone who has comprehensive personal trainer insurance that covers you for any injuries that may occur while working out. Many online personal trainers are also certified in first aid and CPR, so you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. They can also offer valuable tips on staying safe while working out.
Fitness Apps
In addition to hardware like smartwatches, there are also a number of helpful fitness apps that can make working out safer. For example, many running apps now allow you to share your real-time location with friends or family members so they can track your progress and make sure you’re safe. There are also apps that provide detailed maps of local running trails so you can avoid getting lost in unfamiliar territory.
Some fitness apps also have safety features like emergency contacts and GPS tracking. If you ever find yourself in a dangerous situation, you can quickly send out an alert to your emergency contacts with your location. They can then call for help or come to your aid.
Wearable Cameras
If you’re someone who likes to work out solo, wearable cameras can give you an extra sense of security. These devices allow you to record your surroundings as you exercise, which can be helpful if you ever find yourself in an unsafe situation. Additionally, many wearable cameras now come equipped with live-streaming capabilities, so you can share your workout with friends or family in real time.
If you must work out alone, let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. You should also consider carrying a personal safety device like a pepper spray or stun gun.
Automatic Lockers
Most gyms and fitness centers now use electronic key fobs or RFID-enabled wristbands to grant members access to the facility. This helps deter trespassers and allows the gym to keep track of who is coming and going. Because the locker rooms are often located near the entrance of the gym, this also helps to ensure that only members have access to them.
Some gyms also offer automatic lockers, which can be accessed with your key fob or wristband. These lockers will automatically lock when you walk away from them, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to lock your belongings. This is an excellent feature for those who are worried about theft.
Whether you’re a casual exerciser or a hardcore fitness enthusiast, there’s no excuse not to take advantage of the safety features that modern technology has to offer. From smartwatches and fitness apps to wearable cameras, there are now more tools than ever before for keeping yourself safe while working out. So get out there and enjoy your favorite activities without worry—your safety is in good hands!
