Just wondering wither all the technology available these days whether they make treadmills that communicate with PC’s via bluetooth / wifi etc for creating courses or interval sessions like a computrainer?
Toying with the idea of getting a new one and although I know some of the flash gym ones I used a few years ago had training courses /tracks etc built into the monitors with tv etc, I’d be placing one in front of a big tv anyway so no need to get a one with built in monitor. As such just thought it might be an added incentive if there were some that could talk to PCs to view a live training session on the tv. More so for the wife, as I’ve spent years adjusting to training on a treadmill staring at a blank wall and zoning out (yes I do run outdoors as well!).
What other new technology exists with the latest treadmills, if any?
NordicTrack makes a few treadmills with what they call iFIT which uses Google Maps to allow you to run a route. I believe Sufferfest has treadmill videos as well but they aren’t integrated into any TM, you need to change the settings as the workout guides you.
I looked into the NordicTrack iFit and there are some websites that explain how hack together your own workouts and upload them into the treadmill. Was never able to get an iFit module on eBay to try and get it to work on mine.
I wondering as well as I am getting ready for cooler temps and shorter days. The choices seem to be limited. There is a company called Outside Interactive. They are not a treadmill company. They’ve been making virtual running software that works with ant+ running devices. You run their race videos and the software can monitor/adjust the onscreen pace based off your ant+ footpod and heart rate strap. It also displays data like TrainerRoad. Mostly scenic running videos and some actual races too. Sadly, no interval training or treadmill control. But you can use any treadmill.
Ifit from Icon sports is the only I know about that will control the treadmill speed. I believe they use google maps for creating courses and virtual running. But you have to use a ifit enabled treadmill for this to work. Its kinda buggy from what I heard. Maybe they worked out the bugs.
I’ve been looking for reviews on Outside Interactive but there seems to be limited info. Any other feedback or info would be appreciated as life can get boring on a treadmill during the winter. I’ve been spoiled by Trainer Road and have been looking for something like that for the treadmill.