Do You Need iFit or Gamefit?
Posted: Thursday, October 22, 2009
by Robert Braun
http://www.treadmill-world.com
Treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes are often described as being "iFit-compatible" or having "Gamefit." What do these terms mean?
iFIT. iFit workout cards are programmed workouts that can be inserted into many treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes to provide a truly interactive workout. That is, the workout changes according to the user's actual performance in the workout. You control the workout, but the program reacts to your performance and instructs you accordingly. In some versions, the equipment actually voices the instructions. Your workout results are recorded and presented for you next time you go to work out. In that way, you can set goals and track your progress. The purpose is to come as close as possible to there being a personal trainer standing next to as you use your equipment.
iFit cartridges ("cards") work only in iFit-compatible machines. iFit is manufactured by ICON Health & Fitness, Inc., which also manufactures many brands of exercise equipment. The cards offer 8-week progressive workout programs designed by certified personal trainers. On treadmills, the cards automatically adjust the speed and incline of the treadmill. On elliptical machines and stationary bikes, the resistance adjusts. Different workouts are available to match the user's objectives, for example, weight loss, specific athletic performance, or general fitness. Different levels are also available, from beginner to advanced. You can buy more cards and even download new workouts onto your old cards.
GAMEFIT. Gamefit is a set of interactive video games built in to your equipment. The goals of the game are achieved through doing the same things you are doing in your workout anyway. By combining your goals in this way, the games get easier as your cardiovascular fitness increases. The idea is that, by adding some other meaning to your workouts, you take your mind off of your workout, make progress toward your fitness goals, and have some fun at the same time.
Does it seem like the robots are replacing the personal trainers? The trainers need not fear. One of the big advantages of having Muscleman standing next to you barking is that it really does make you work harder than if you are left on your own. Can a robot really have the same effect? Maybe. It's easy to try.
--------
Robert Braun has been using, selling, and writing about treadmills for decades. For more information about treadmills and ellipticals, see Treadmill-World.com
This Article has been viewed 289 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
No comments yet.We want your comments! If you can read this, you don't have javascript enabled, so you can't use this comment system. Please enable javascript.