Moov Claims to Be a Fitness Tracker with Smarts

Moov is yet another fitness tracker that you wear on your wrist. But unlike all the others, it’ll actually let you know if you punch like a wimp or run like an idiot.

Instead of just counting steps or movement in a general way, Moov claims to analyze your posture and movements using its built-in accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer. It then feeds the data over Bluetooth to a companion iOS app, which can give you instructions as you’re working out. Or, if you’re not into taking your iPhone into the gym, Moov will store workout data on the watch, and give you a summary on your phone when you get back.

At launch, Moov will support running, cardio boxing, weight training, swimming and cycling, and the company plans to sell more workouts over time, including yoga and martial arts. Engadget gave the device a try and said it worked pretty well, and that the cardio boxing routine had an almost video-game like feel. (A video on Moov’s website gives the same impression.)

Moov’s FAQ recommends wearing a couple bands, especially for boxing, but you could get by with one on each wrist or ankle for the other activities. The device supposedly lasts up to two weeks on a charge if you work out an hour per day, four days per week.

At a glance, Moov looks like an interesting take on the wearable fitness band, but needing to have a phone or tablet nearby for the best experience isn’t ideal. The built-in personal trainer concept might work better on a full-blown smartwatch with its own display and speaker, but I’m not aware of any current watch that can deeply analyze your workout routine.

Eventually, Moov will cost $120, but right now you can pre-order one for $60, or a pair for $100, with estimated shipping in July. Beware, though: If you order, Moov will charge your card immediately, as the company is essentially using the pre-orders to fund its initial batch of devices. Should the company delay the product — as is often the case with crowdfunded hardware startups — your money will still be tied up.