We’ve Heard Of Smart Homes, But What About Smart Gyms?

What does one think of when smart homes are mentioned? We often think of voice-controlled speakers, thermostats that learn patterns or fridges that give recipes. Well, smart gyms work in a similar way, only the intention is to help with exercising. Instead of lights and locks, the gadgets here are mirrors, weights, treadmills and bikes linked to software that learns and adapts.

ResearchAndMarkets.com reported that the global smart home gym equipment market is valued at $3.2 billion in 2024 and is forecast to reach $4 billion by 2030. The pandemic pushed many into home workouts, and unlike temporary fads, the interest has carried on. Smart gyms are built on convenience and customisation, where devices can track performance, guide movements and even offer coaching through a screen.

In Britain, YouGov found that one in ten consumers own a smart fitness device. That equals about 5.3 million people. Another 12% plan to buy one in the future, which points to more growth ahead. While gyms outside the home have reopened, many have kept their connected machines because they give flexibility.

 

What Technology Runs These Machines?

 

Artificial intelligence is built into many devices. Tonal, for example, sells a wall-mounted unit. It uses digital weights that alter automatically, while a camera watches form. A monthly membership also gives users guided sessions and live coaching.

Tempo’s system relies on smart weights that track lifts in real time. Virtual trainers then advise on intensity, reps and posture. Hydrow, best known for its rowing machines, has invested in Speede Fitness, which uses adaptive strength training. iFIT has bought Reform RX, a connected Pilates reformer brand.

Virtual reality is also being used, an example being Texas-based Virtuix, who has raised more than $5 million for Treks, a game that turns exercise into exploration inside a headset. Players run and move inside digital settings, burning calories as they play.

Wearables such as smartwatches now link directly to these machines. A rider on a Peloton, for example, can see their heart rate from a synced watch while pedalling.

 

 

What Are The Risks Of Smart Home Gyms?

 

YouGov’s research into smart appliances found 31% of Britons fear loss of privacy, while 28% are worried about hacking. The same doubts apply to connected gyms, which handle sensitive health data.

When it comes to reliability, about 1/3 of consumers told YouGov they worry about appliances breaking if the internet goes down. Gym equipment is no different… no WiFi means no streaming, no updates, and in some cases no workout at all.

Then there is the price… Tonal costs over $5,000 once extras are added. British buyers are cautious: a quarter of those surveyed said they would pay between £500 and £1,000 for a device, but not more which could possibly limit the market.

There is also, of course, the risk of injury. Machines can give pointers, but they cannot replace a coach standing nearby. An over-reliance on feedback from screens could mean poor posture or missed signals.

 

Who Is Buying These Devices?

 

Smart bikes are the most common connected device in Britain, owned by almost half of those with any kind of smart gym equipment. Treadmills follow at 38%, then smart mirrors at 36%. Rowing machines and cross trainers are tied at 26%. Newer items (such as 21% for connected boxing bags and 20% for climbing machines) are gaining ground as well.

People are buying these for different reasons; 22% of smart bike owners told YouGov they purchased for mental health reasons. About 1 in 10 owners of rowing machines and cross trainers said better sleep was their main motive. That shows these devices are being sold as wellness tools as much as workout aids.