GymKit is a new integration between the Apple Watch and fitness equipment, that allows the two to cooperate and sync workout and activity data between them.
The first gym to feature GymKit-compatible equipment is now up and running in Australia. Users just tap their watches to the treadmill (or other GymKit equipment) using NFC, and they start sending data back and forth automatically …
In the demonstration, The Australian noticed that the watch would send heart rate data from the watch to the connected treadmill. The treadmill sent calories burned statistics to the watch, as it knew the person’s exact weight.
Information such as incline is also sent from the treadmill to the watch automatically. Workouts automatically pause and resume if the treadmill is stopped or restarted.
The idea is that the watch and the paired gym machine have better knowledge about different aspects of the workout. GymKit allows that data to be shared back and forth, as appropriate.
At the end of the session, the watch saves all the relevant data to its local database (no iPhone required) and the gym equipment is wiped of any personal data.
The FitnessFirst gym features equipment from the manufacturer TechnoGym, which is making GymKit-compatible treadmills, steppers, bikes, and elliptical machines. Right now, GymKit is available at just one location in Australia. The company says it will expand the GymKit machinery to other gyms it runs across Australia. Expect gyms around the world to start using GymKit equipment in the near future.
Apple’s Jay Blahnik gave a brief interview to 9News on the announcement. Apple previously said GymKit equipment would start rolling out by the end of the year. GymKit compatible machines are being developed by TechnoGym, Life Fitness, Matrix, StairMaster, and Schwinn.
