S
Simon Sage
The Tao WellShell is a simple Bluetooth-connected gadget that hit Kickstarter recently which detects how hard it’s being compressed. Based on exercise regimens displayed on your iPhone and iPad through their app, you can get in simple, effective reps just about anywhere. A lot of these exercises involve squeezing the WellShell between your hands, but there are many where you can squeeze it between your knees as well.
The app ecosystem could allow Tao to connect to games and fitness trackers of all sorts. On its own, the WellShell can also act as a pedometer, heart rate, and sleep monitor. The biggest hiccup I see here are the voice prompts which, in a stern robot lady voice, command you to press harder, softer, or hold positions based on the routine. It’s not exactly something you can have barking at you will you’re trying to get a quick workout done on the train or at the office.
Tao’s Kickstarter campaign kicked off not too long ago, though they’re currently only around $16,000 into their $100,000 goal. That said, there are still plenty of devices available at the $99 early bird tier, which should be shipping in October 2014. If you’re interested, head on over to Tao’s ongoing Kickstarter campaign.
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