reviews Archives - Athletech News https://athletechnews.com/tag/reviews/ The Homepage of the Fitness & Wellness Industry Tue, 04 Mar 2025 00:42:15 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://athletechnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ATHLETECH-FAVICON-KNOCKOUT-LRG-48x48.png reviews Archives - Athletech News https://athletechnews.com/tag/reviews/ 32 32 177284290 Product of the Week: Therabody RecoveryAir Pro https://athletechnews.com/product-of-the-week-therabody-recoveryair-pro/ Thu, 27 Feb 2025 18:31:30 +0000 https://athletechnews.com/?p=122631 All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. The boots boast improved circulation and lymphatic drainage to improve recovery Recovery is all the rage right now, and compression boots are no exception. The Therabody RecoveryAir Pro…

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All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
The boots boast improved circulation and lymphatic drainage to improve recovery

Recovery is all the rage right now, and compression boots are no exception. The Therabody RecoveryAir Pro boots are designed to improve circulation and provide lymphatic drainage to speed up recovery and reduce muscle fatigue. With many boots on the market, how do the RecoveryAir Pro boots stack up?

Pros

The control device has simple navigational buttons that are easy to follow to customize your experience. The boots also have different modes, like recovery, warm-up, isolation, interval, and pro. Users can select a duration from 10 minutes to 90 minutes (or continual) and then pressures that range from 20 to 100 mmHg. The control device is also sleek and well-designed, so it blends into different design environments.

The four chambers of the boot were extremely effective, particularly with my feet. As a runner, my feet are often neglected, but the intense pressure and hold/release definitely reduced muscle fatigue. The boots apply graded pressure to the lower limbs, with gradual pressure from the feet to the groin. RecoveryAir also uses non-porous medical-grade material with internal overlapping chambers to prevent the boots from becoming smelly.

Apart from the physical benefits, it’s also nice to have a forced slowdown in the middle of one’s day. The physical act of sitting, setting a timer, and using the boots provides a nice respite for busy users. The Therabody “Fast Flush” Technology, however, allows the boots to inflate or deflate in just 60 seconds. Users can also control the pressure from the Therabody app from mobile devices.

Cons

The control device and the boots are not the easiest to lug around; you need a side table and a good chair (hopefully one that reclines) to effectively use the boots to their fullest extent.

It’s no secret that compression boots are expensive (around $1300), so taking them for a test run before fully investing is likely best. Similarly, ensuring that you can dedicate the time daily to the boots is important for long-term effect, particularly when training for a race.

Overall, the boots are a great investment if you train frequently or experience delayed onset muscle soreness. While the boots aren’t cheap, if you’re hoping to invest in the best compression boots, look no further.

Therabody RecoveryAir Pro Compression System, $1,329

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Product of the Week: Function Health https://athletechnews.com/product-of-the-week-function-health/ Wed, 05 Feb 2025 16:04:54 +0000 https://athletechnews.com/?p=121184 All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Mark Hyman’s comprehensive health company is designed to take a more preventative approach to medicine Dr. Mark Hyman is one of the most prominent proponents of functional medicine…

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All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Mark Hyman’s comprehensive health company is designed to take a more preventative approach to medicine

Dr. Mark Hyman is one of the most prominent proponents of functional medicine and a co-founder of Function Health, a membership-based diagnostic health platform company.  He was inspired to found the company based on the shortcomings of traditional healthcare. In an interview with Athletech News last fall, Dr. Hyman noted, “I saw that our system prioritized outdated processes and profits, with people only visiting doctors on a reactive basis. That experience inspired me and the other founding members of Function to create a new way for people to manage their health and live their best lives.”

Function Health has grown a lot since its founding in 2021, with its beta release in April 2023 and its expansion across the country. The company is expanding its focus on athletes, most recently with a partnership with the NBPA.

“Athletes push their limits daily, yet standard checkups often miss key performance insights,” Emeline Minor, who works in Special Projects at Function, told Athletech News. “Cortisol and testosterone impact recovery, while glucose and insulin regulate sustained energy. Monitoring these markers helps athletes train smarter and avoid burnout. Key nutrients like vitamin D aid muscle repair and injury prevention, benefiting anyone engaged in physical activity.”

To see what the future of preventative and performance-based health might hold, I decided to test Function Health by going to a nearby Quest Diagnostics. I took the tests over two separate sessions to get the results of more than 100 biomarkers for a view of my health across many dimensions, from my heart, hormones, immunity, thyroid, and more. So how did Function stack up compared to other preventative health services?  

Pros

For $499 per year, members get two rounds of testing: an initial assessment and then another test three to six months later to see how their numbers are evolving. After your initial signup, you are asked to give a detailed summary of your medical history and medications. Next, you schedule your tests at Quest Diagnostics. I also appreciated the text reminders from Function in the days before the assessment on how best to prepare for the tests.

While Quest Diagnostics is not as comfortable as some other options for blood draws (for example, for InsideTracker, a professional came to my apartment), there are many locations around major cities, and there was almost no wait time.  

For those who are squeamish with blood draws, the first round of testing required nearly six vials of blood. Because of the draining nature of such a blood draw, Function splits them into two separate appointments scheduled several days apart. The service recommended not doing any physical activity later that day, but I felt good enough to continue with my normal routine just a few hours later. For the second test, there was also a urine sample.

Although I had a handful of biomarkers out of range, my biological age was still a fair amount younger than my calendar age, which helped put my results into perspective and prevented any panic while I waited for the physician’s notes, which took a little more than a week. In addition, for the biomarkers out of range, clicking on each result yielded a summary of what it meant, its causes, foods to eat, foods to limit, supplements to take, and more. I thought the website’s design was fairly easy to use and click through, although I would have appreciated a snapshot view of all the biggest next steps for me to follow to improve my metrics.

One big benefit of Function is that the company essentially subsidizes the costs of all these tests; the phlebotomist at Quest Diagnostics told me that these tests normally cost far more than what Function charges. Although the company does not accept insurance, it is FSA/HSA eligible.

Cons

A small downside to the test is certain restrictions must be taken before, which is admittedly fairly typical of all blood tests. Users are not allowed to work out for 24 hours, take supplements for 72 hours, or eat certain foods, like fish (in case it spikes certain biomarker levels in your bloodstream) for a few days before. While a minor inconvenience, it’s worth calling out the small changes needed prior to the exam.

One other downside is the timing disparity between getting the results back and the clinician’s notes back, which can be up to 2 weeks. The clinician’s notes add more context to your results, and if any results are urgent, Function will call you immediately. With the results come recommendations about the best foods to eat, potential lifestyle changes, and any recommended follow-up tests. For those anxious to receive their results, the timing difference may cause some short-term panic, perhaps brought about by googling or WebMD searches.

I asked physicians unassociated with the brands about my results, and they noted that some of the biomarkers used were newer, without as much clinical research backing them. For example, measures like HDL Large, LDL Medium, and LDL Small were all part of the heart health measurements but represent newer ways to understand cholesterol. According to Dr. Hyman, this is the “most critical test” for understanding cholesterol health. However, some of these other physicians recommended focusing more on the more standard cholesterol numbers due to their proven nature. I wish there had been a clearer way to view which biomarkers were more clinically

Overall, Function is likely best for those who have existing medical conditions or deficiencies and want to track their progress, driving towards improvements on these health goals.

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The Best Fitness Gifts to Buy Just in Time for the 2024 Holiday Season https://athletechnews.com/the-best-fitness-gifts-to-buy-just-in-time-for-the-2024-holiday-season/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 10:39:00 +0000 https://athletechnews.com/?p=114158 All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Discover the best fitness gifts of 2024, featuring advanced tech, eco-friendly materials, and personalized options to enhance health-focused lifestyles If you’re looking to treat someone (or yourself!) to…

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All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Discover the best fitness gifts of 2024, featuring advanced tech, eco-friendly materials, and personalized options to enhance health-focused lifestyles

If you’re looking to treat someone (or yourself!) to the best fitness gifts this year, 2024 has some seriously cool options that blend style, sustainability, and cutting-edge tech. From sleek wearables to eco-friendly essentials, these picks make it easy to keep up with health goals while feeling good about it. Whether you’re after something to amp up a fitness routine or add a little more self-care, this list has a mix of goodies for every fitness journey.

This year, fitness gifts are all about making healthy habits easier and more personal. Think home equipment that’s just as good as the gym, clothing that’s actually sustainable, and gadgets that feel like a fitness coach in your pocket. These gifts are thoughtful, functional, and perfect for anyone looking to up their wellness game in a meaningful way.

And for that little extra touch, don’t forget to pair these with handy accessories or apps to really make the most of them.

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Best Resistance Bands for Full-Body Workouts at Home, According to Reviews https://athletechnews.com/best-resistance-bands/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 20:46:32 +0000 https://athletechnews.com/?p=114853 All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. From light resistance bands perfect for beginners to heavy-duty bands for intense workouts, these top-rated resistance bands will elevate your home workout routine Looking to step up your…

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All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
From light resistance bands perfect for beginners to heavy-duty bands for intense workouts, these top-rated resistance bands will elevate your home workout routine

Looking to step up your home workout routine without the need for bulky equipment? Resistance bands might just be the answer. These simple, stretchy bands are popular for targeting multiple muscle groups, improving joint mobility, and adding versatility to any workout. To help you find the perfect fit, here’s a list of the best resistance bands out there—each backed by top reviews and ready to add a little extra power to your fitness routine.

Why Use Resistance Bands for Home Workouts?

Resistance bands are a great alternative to weights and machines, especially for full-body workouts. They’re lightweight, affordable, and easy to store. Whether you’re building strength, recovering from an injury, or improving flexibility, resistance bands can boost your workout routine right at home.

When choosing bands, think about your fitness goals and the resistance levels you need. With the right set, you’re ready for a complete and effective workout anywhere.

How to Choose the Best Resistance Bands for Your Fitness Goals

When selecting resistance bands, consider the following:

  • Level of Resistance: Most sets offer multiple levels to suit different exercises and fitness levels.
  • Material and Durability: Look for bands made of high-quality latex or fabric to ensure longevity.
  • Band Style: Resistance bands come in various styles, such as loop, tube, and flat bands, each ideal for different exercises.

Top Picks for Resistance Bands Based on Reviews

Each of the following bands has been selected based on durability, versatility, and customer reviews. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, these bands cater to a range of needs.

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Product of the week: RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor https://athletechnews.com/runn-smart-treadmill-sensor-review/ Fri, 25 Oct 2024 16:34:50 +0000 https://athletechnews.com/?p=113806 All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. As tech advances in the fitness world, gadgets that streamline our workouts are becoming more and more essential North Pole Engineering’s RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor offers a powerful…

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All products featured on Athletech News are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As tech advances in the fitness world, gadgets that streamline our workouts are becoming more and more essential

North Pole Engineering’s RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor offers a powerful solution for anyone looking to turn their existing treadmill into a fully connected smart treadmill without the high price tag. With a price of $99.99, this innovative device promises to enhance your treadmill sessions by providing accurate data and seamless integration with your favorite fitness apps. Ahead, learn more about what makes RUNN a must-have for fitness enthusiasts.

Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Workout

What sets RUNN apart from traditional treadmill setups is its ability to broadcast real-time data to fitness apps, offering users more detailed insights into their runs. The sensor is factory-calibrated to ensure accuracy within .1 mph at a 5 mph treadmill pace, making it especially useful for treadmills that may have worn parts or are not delivering the speeds they once did. This feature is a game-changer for anyone who wants to improve their running performance or track metrics like cadence and incline during virtual training sessions.

Additionally, when paired with the heartbeatz Connect Apple Watch app, RUNN takes your workout data to the next level by seamlessly integrating your Apple Watch heart rate data into fitness apps. Gone are the days of needing a chest strap for heart rate monitoring—heartbeatz Connect simplifies the process by allowing your Apple Watch to act as a heart rate monitor while also delivering all the treadmill data to your fitness app. This level of integration and convenience makes RUNN an essential device for those looking to optimize their treadmill workouts.

woman on treadmill

Credit: North Pole Engineering

Durability, Battery Life & Global Accessibility

For users concerned about durability and reliability, the RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor comes with a 12-month limited warranty, ensuring peace of mind. North Pole Engineering will repair or replace any defective product during this time, a testament to the confidence they have in the quality of their device.

The sensor is also rechargeable using a micro-USB cable and offers up to 15 hours of battery life on a single charge, ensuring it can last through multiple workouts without needing frequent recharging. Whether you live in the United States, Europe, or even South Korea, RUNN ships internationally, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Why RUNN is a Must-Have for Your Fitness Routine

The RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor provides an affordable and effective solution for anyone looking to upgrade their treadmill without breaking the bank. Its ease of installation, accurate tracking capabilities, and seamless integration with fitness apps make it an ideal choice for both casual runners and serious athletes. With its heart rate monitoring compatibility, especially with the Apple Watch, RUNN also provides a comprehensive fitness experience that allows users to get the most out of every run.

If you’re someone with an older or less sophisticated treadmill, the RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor is an excellent investment to help you stay connected, informed, and motivated throughout your fitness journey.

runn treadmill sensor

Credit: North Pole Engineering

runn treadmill sensor
Credit: North Pole Engineering

Simple Installation and Seamless Integration

One of the standout features of the RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor is its easy installation process. Within just 5 minutes, you can transform any treadmill into a smart device by attaching the sensor, which uses both ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity to communicate with fitness apps. This makes RUNN compatible with a wide range of virtual training apps like Zwift, Kinomap, and Rouvy, as well as Garmin devices. Whether you’re using a motorized or non-motorized treadmill, the RUNN sensor provides accurate speed, incline, and cadence tracking, eliminating the need to invest in a new treadmill.

How to Install and Use the RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor

Installing and using the RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor is incredibly simple, making it accessible for users of all experience levels. In just a few minutes, you can turn your treadmill into a smart device that tracks your workout data. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Installation Process

  1. Unbox the Sensor: Start by unboxing the RUNN sensor, which comes with adhesive strips, a micro-USB charging cable, and calibration stickers.
  2. Charge the Device: Before installation, ensure the sensor is fully charged using the included micro-USB cable. The sensor’s battery lasts up to 15 hours, so you won’t need to charge it frequently once it’s set up.
  3. Attach the Sensor: Locate the treadmill belt and attach the RUNN sensor using the adhesive strips. Place the sensor on the treadmill’s frame, near the running surface. Make sure it’s positioned properly so the sensor can accurately track the belt’s movement.
  4. Apply the Calibration Stickers: To ensure the RUNN sensor accurately tracks your speed, cadence, and incline, apply the provided calibration stickers to the treadmill belt as instructed. This allows the sensor to detect movement and provide precise data.
  5. Connect via Bluetooth or ANT+: Once installed, the sensor broadcasts data via Bluetooth and ANT+. Connect the RUNN sensor to your preferred fitness app or smart device, such as Zwift, Garmin, or Kinomap.

Using the RUNN Sensor

  1. Sync with Fitness Apps: Open your preferred fitness app, such as Zwift or Garmin, and pair the RUNN sensor via Bluetooth or ANT+. The sensor will transmit speed, incline, and cadence in real time, allowing you to track your workout stats and integrate them with virtual training apps.
  2. Track Heart Rate with Apple Watch: If you use an Apple Watch, download the heartbeatz Connect app to sync your heart rate data with your fitness app. This eliminates the need for a chest strap and allows you to close your rings while monitoring your workout.
  3. Monitor Your Progress: As you run, the sensor will automatically track your speed, cadence, and incline. The data will appear in your chosen app, making it easy to follow along with your progress in real time.

Key Takeaways:

  • Simple installation in under five minutes
  • ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless integration with apps
  • Tracks speed, incline, and cadence accurately
  • Compatible with Apple Watch through heartbeatz Connect for heart rate monitoring
  • Rechargeable battery lasting up to 15 hours
  • $99.99 price point, making it an affordable upgrade for any treadmill

The Bottom Line:

The RUNN Smart Treadmill Sensor is a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their indoor running experience. Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply want to keep track of your fitness metrics, RUNN delivers accurate and actionable data with ease.

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