Body Reboot

Technology-driven fitness products aim to do you good.

BY TED ALAN STEDMAN

It looks like a standard full-length mirror, but turn it on and the Mirror interactive home gym transforms into an immersive studio workout. Mirror’s responsive display—comprising an LCD panel, stereo speakers, a camera and a lens cap for privacy, a microphone, and a one-way mirror—allows you to see yourself, your instructor, and your classmates during real-time sessions. More than 50 live classes are offered per week; or use its extensive library of on-demand workouts. $1,495, plus a $39/month subscription; mirror.co

Courtesy PowerDot

Courtesy JaxJox

The PowerDot 2.0 smart muscle stimulator is the world’s first app-based neuromuscular electric stimulation (NMES) device, designed to reduce recovery time and increase muscular performance. Rechargeable and rated for up to 20 hours of continuous use, PowerDot uses small electric pods controlled by a mobile app to deliver targeted electrical muscle stimulation that promotes muscle contractions and enhances recovery times. The app tracks data and allows access to more than 10 NMES programs for a customizable experience. From $200; powerdot.com

The JaxJox KettlebellConnect has transformed this old-school gym stalwart into a smart weight that’s fun to use. With its companion app that controls internal cylinder loads from 12 to 42 pounds, you choose the preferred lifting weight in 6-pound increments from the base stand and proceed with your workout. The app tracks your reps, pounds, and movements, whether you’re doing swings, catches, or halos, and its space-saving, all-in-one design eliminates the need for multiple kettlebells of different sizes. $350; jaxjox.com

Water sports fans can enjoy music while maintaining auditory awareness of the surrounding environment with the AfterShokz Xtrainerz waterproof, bone conduction MP3 headphones. Worn around the ears, the headphones deliver sound to the inner ear through the cheekbones without obstructing normal hearing. The waterproof Xtrainerz don’t require connectivity to a device, and instead use 4 GB of built-in storage (about 1,000 songs) powered by a battery good for six hours of use. $150; aftershokz.com

The Omron HeartGuide blood pressure monitor is a marvel of miniaturization in the form of a wristwatch, using minuscule pumps and air bladders to perform oscillometric measurements similar to those used during clinical tests. Monitoring blood pressure, daily activity, and sleep quality, HeartGuide tracks trends in blood pressure, activity, and sleep quality over time and helps users stay within healthy ranges while identifying potential forms of hypertension. Using its app, the device wirelessly uploads readings that can be shared with physicians. $500; omronhealthcare.com

Plank exercises develop core strength, but the routine can be monotonous. Enter the Stealth Core Trainer, a balance board that transforms the exercise into a game. The board pairs with Stealth’s mobile app, which turns you into a veritable human joystick operating a video game while in plank position. The resulting play incentivizes you to go the distance while racking up points with a competitive scoring system. From $150; stealthbodyfitness.com

An alternative to the CamelBak for hassle-free hydration and gear storage is the Salomon S/ Lab Sense Ultra 5 Set. It’s ideal for athletes like runners who count on balance, fitness, stability, and comfort during self-propelled competition. Weighing a wispy 6.7 ounces, the mesh vest takes a minimalist approach with 10 exterior pockets designed for easy, on-the-move access to soft hydration flasks and other necessities. The quickdry, breathable vest includes an 8-ounce flask, reflective elements, and a whistle for overall safety. $155; salomon.com

Using safe, established technology, the Modius weight loss headset stimulates the vestibular nerve, which influences the hypothalamus and brain stem to reduce cravings and appetite and increase a sense of fullness. With the Modius app synced to the headset, users dial in the preferred signal strength and follow a daily hour-long schedule. Users have reported an average weight loss of 9.5 and 10.2 pounds (women and men, respectively). $480; modiushealth.com

The Dodow sleep aid can retrain your brain to fall asleep more quickly, using exercises derived from cognitive therapy, yoga techniques, and meditation. Like a light metronome, the device projects a slow, rhythmic halo of blue light to the ceiling, which creates a calming, mesmerizing effect that slows breathing and reduces anxiety. Portable, with auto shutoff and adjustable light intensity, the method has no side effects. $60; sodasays.com