Speedflex has expanded its offering of functional training equipment with the launch of individual pods.

Measuring just 3.09m (10.1ft) by 1.8m (5.9ft), the pod is designed to make HIIT training more accessible by bringing it to the gym floor.

Using Speedflex’s hydraulic technology, a unique innovation that allows users to generate personalised resistance levels, the pod is designed to deliver the benefits of HIIT training while reducing the risk of injury and enabling users to perform at their optimal level.

The device offers users more than 100 different functional training options and includes a wraparound racking system for storing kettlebells and medicine balls – giving users easy access to all the equipment they need.

Paul Ferris, MD at Speedflex, says: “We’re delighted to launch the new pod and believe this will be a real game changer in the functional fitness market.”

Ferris adds: “We want to show that functional training can be accessible to anyone, regardless of age or ability. With our individual pods, users will still be performing all of those same functional training movements and getting a great full body workout.”

fitness-kit.net keyword: SPEEDFLEX

Commercial supplier Life Fitness has launched the IC8, a new indoor power trainer for cyclists.

Developed in collaboration with Life Fitness’ sister company Indoor Cycling Group (ICG) and Peaks Coaching Group founder Hunter Allen, the IC8 is ergonomically designed to deliver the drive and feel of both a road and triathlon bike.

It claims to deliver superior tracking and fitness results, and features the WattRate Direct Power Meter, with patented photocell technology to measure power with less than one per cent of error.

Other features include the WattRate TFT Computer, with more than 40 performance metrics, a PRO handlebar designed to enhance performance and enable cyclists to ride as they would outside, and magnetic resistance that delivers up to 3800 watts and gives users instant control of the resistance levels.

The IC8 is also Bluetooth and ANT+ enabled so users can access workouts, create training programmes and analyse workout data via the ICG app.

Bernd Perschel, vice president of ICG, says: “We worked closely with athletes to create an authentic indoor experience. Inspired by the movement of road cycling, triathlon and athletic performance training, the IC8 has greater power accuracy and wattage than any trainer available in the market today.” It is the new standard in power training.”

fitness-kit.net keyword: Life Fitness

California based company Yoga Design Lab (YDL) has launched a range of eco-friendly yoga mats into the UK and European markets.

According to YDL, the mats blend functionality and ethical sustainability with a fashion-forward aesthetic.

The yoga mats are made from natural tree rubber and biodegradable microfibres that are produced from recycled plastic bottles.

To create the microfibres, recycled plastic bottles are sorted, cleaned, sterilised and dried, before being crushed into chips, which are then heated and passed through a spinner to create a polyester yarn. The yarn is then passed through a crimping machine to give it a fluffy, woolly texture before being woven into a mat.

Chad Turner, founder and CEO of Yoga Design Lab, says: “The goal was to create a beautiful, highly-functional product, with the smallest eco footprint possible.”

Turner adds: “Countless yoga mats end up in landfills because they’re made from non-recyclable, hazardous materials. We wanted to help change that.”

fitness-kit.net keyword: YOGA DESIGN LAB

Spanish sporting goods company Bkool has launched two new smart trainers, the Smart Pro 2 and the Smart Air, for cyclists.

According to Bkool, the Smart Pro 2 delivers a quieter, more realistic and more powerful workout. It is designed reach up to 1,200 watts and is capable of simulating slopes with a gradient of up to 20 per cent. It also features telescopic legs for greater rider stability, as well as a fan cover designed for a quiet workout – noise levels are only 68 decibels at 35 kph.

The Smart Air is a direct drive smart trainer that features a side-to-side rocking movement designed to offer riders a realistic pedalling motion.

Both trainers offer a sleek design, ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart capabilities, and Bkool’s simulator software, which tracks riders’ stats. It also replicates cycle routes – reacting to hills and descents – and real-world weather, while allowing users to experience riding in a virtual world.

Jorge Serrano, Bkool marketing director, says: “We’re extremely excited by the reaction our new Smart trainer has received from cyclists and the fitness industry. At Bkool we’re always looking for new ways to innovate indoor training.”

fitness-kit.net keyword: BKOOL