A system and method for measuring and normalizing physical resistance for athletic activities and fitness equipment are disclosed. A particular embodiment includes: measuring a level of physical resistance in an athletic activity; generating sensor data indicative of the measured level of physical resistance; using the sensor data to determine if the measured level of physical resistance will achieve a desired performance level in the athletic activity; and automatically generating control signals to adjust the level of physical resistance if the measured level of physical resistance is unlikely to achieve the desired performance level in the athletic activity.

A treadmill system includes a deck, an endless tread belt covering at least a portion of the deck, and a motion transducer positioned to detect movement of the tread belt. The treadmill system also includes a processor and memory where the memory includes instructions executable by the processor to receive an output of the motion transducer, determine an exercise type performed on the tread belt, and calculate an amount of work performed by a user on the tread belt based on the output of the motion transducer and the determined type of exercise.

In a first aspect, a method is provided that includes the steps of (1) providing a monitor for determining a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser and for outputting a signal representative of the performance level; (2) using the monitor to measure a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser; (3) outputting from the monitor a signal representative of the performance level; (4) providing a video game having a character, the video game inputting and being responsive to the performance level signal output by the monitor, the video game using the performance level signal to control a performance level of the video game character; and (5) while the exerciser is not exercising, controlling a performance level of the video game character based on a performance level signal output by the monitor.

Adjusting settings of an exercise machine is provided. Data is received from a set of monitoring devices at a workstation. Software applications currently executing on the workstation are monitored. A signal is sent to a control module of the exercise machine adjusting one or more settings of the exercise machine based on changes in the software applications currently executing on the workstation.

Asymmetrical resistance systems and methods include an asymmetrical flywheel having a braking track disposed on a first side of the flywheel, and a resistance apparatus comprising at least one magnet, wherein a distance between the magnet and the braking track corresponds to a force resisting rotation of the flywheel. The flywheel includes an outer portion comprising a ferromagnetic material, and the resistance apparatus includes a backing plate disposed on a side of the magnets opposite the braking track. A magnetic field flows from a first magnet to the outer portion of the flywheel through the braking track, back through the braking track to the second magnet, and from the second magnet through the backing plate to the first magnet. While the flywheel is rotating, the braking track moves through the magnetic field creating an eddy current that generates a force resistant to the rotation of the asymmetrical flywheel.

A system and method provides real-time coaching and adjustment to training. A wearable device may be configured for over-the-ear wear, which includes a speaker, a transceiver, and sensors to measure biometric activity in the user while worn during athletic performance training. The system uses a method which compares past performance to current performance and training goals to adjust a training plan during performance for maximizing training results. The system analyzes current and past performance and generates new training performance output goals in real-time based on the user's current performance. The system then transmits coaching output during a live training session instructing the user on how to adjust their performance output during a current training session. Some embodiments include connecting to smart gym apparatus which connect to the system and automatically increase/decrease resistance/speed depending on the system determining a need to change performance output for maximum gains.

Methods and systems for providing a lifestyle companion system are provided. The lifestyle companion system can provide a platform to conduct a user interview. Based on the user interview responses, the system can suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in modules. During performance of activities, the system can provide audio and/or visual cues related to the activities and collect data indicative of the user's performance. Based on the collected data, the system can dynamically adapt the user's goals and/or activities the user is performing or will perform. In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifestyle companion system of the present invention can be applied to fitness, nutrition, and/or medical modules. The system also can be used to facilitate synchronous group activities.

Methods and systems for providing a lifestyle companion system are provided. The lifestyle companion system can provide a platform to conduct a user interview. Based on the user interview responses, the system can suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in modules. During performance of activities, the system can provide audio and/or visual cues related to the activities and collect data indicative of the user's performance. Based on the collected data, the system can dynamically adapt the user's goals and/or activities the user is performing or will perform. In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifestyle companion system of the present invention can be applied to fitness, nutrition, and/or medical modules. The system also can be used to facilitate synchronous group activities.

In a first aspect, a method is provided that includes the steps of (1) providing a monitor for determining a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser and for outputting a signal representative of the performance level; (2) using the monitor to measure a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser; (3) outputting from the monitor a signal representative of the performance level; (4) providing a video game having a character, the video game inputting and being responsive to the performance level signal output by the monitor, the video game using the performance level signal to control a performance level of the video game character; and (5) while the exerciser is not exercising, controlling a performance level of the video game character based on a performance level signal output by the monitor.

Adjusting settings of an exercise machine is provided. Data is received from a set of monitoring devices at a workstation. Software applications currently executing on the workstation are monitored. A signal is sent to a control module of the exercise machine adjusting one or more settings of the exercise machine based on changes in the software applications currently executing on the workstation.