MATRIX TOUCH CONSOLES

Though flashy touchscreen consoles definitely grabbed the attention of members, less than 50% of the fitness industry had adopted the technology. This was largely because the experience was not always what users wanted it to be. They felt like they had to learn how to use a new interface every time they exercised, so many resorted to simply pressing go and starting a basic workout. In this sense, they were getting no more out of the experience than they would with a traditional LED console.

Existing touchscreen consoles lacked adequate stabilization and sweat proofing, causing visibility issues and moisture damage to both exterior controls and interior hardware. Additionally, service technicians found it difficult for one person to install touchscreen consoles, commenting that they needed three or four hands to get the job done. Finally, the consoles were difficult to service without removing them from the cardio equipment and disassembling them, and this led to significant downtime.

Our customers also noted that existing touchscreen consoles did a poor job of cleanly incorporating set-top boxes, which are common in the United States for offering cable TV. Fitness facilities would often have to place their set-top boxes on the ground, adding clutter to the aisles between the equipment and marring the aesthetic of the facility with uncontained cables.