Fightcamp: Data-Driven Workouts for Fitness
A Positive Kind of Soreness
A feeling of muscle soreness has emerged, but it's not the debilitating kind that prevents simple actions. Instead, it’s the satisfying ache that signals the activation of muscles that have been underutilized for some time.
This positive sensation is particularly welcome as an effort is made to overcome the stagnation experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Introducing FightCamp
The source of this renewed physical challenge isn't traditional cycling, but a relatively new addition to the connected fitness market. FightCamp is a home exercise system designed around the disciplines of boxing and kickboxing.
The system incorporates a punching bag and specialized gloves equipped with connected smart trackers.
Benefits Experienced After a Month
Following over a month of consistent use, it can be confidently stated that FightCamp delivers a vigorous workout. Regular participation is likely to enhance a user’s core strength, balance, speed, and fundamental boxing techniques.
Furthermore, it offers a secure and encouraging environment for individuals who have long been curious about boxing but felt apprehensive about entering a traditional boxing gym or mixed martial arts facility.
It removes the intimidation factor of being a beginner in a potentially intimidating setting.
The Genesis of FightCamp
Gaining a comprehensive understanding of FightCamp necessitates a look at its origins. Initially established in 2014 under the name Hykso, the company predates the launch of the FightCamp connected fitness system by four years.
Throughout this initial period, the focus was on developing fitness trackers. These trackers underwent rigorous testing and refinement, ultimately being utilized by elite Olympic boxing athletes.
Olympic boxing teams from the United States, Canada, and China integrated these trackers into their training regimens. Notably, Manny Pacquiao, widely regarded as a boxing legend, was among the early adopters of the technology.
Initially, the system lacked a content component, as the athletes were already operating at the pinnacle of their sport. The offering consisted solely of the trackers and the extensive data they generated.
However, an interesting trend emerged. Boxing coaches began implementing the trackers with their individual clients, as explained by Khalil Zahar, the founder and CEO.
“These coaches served as the crucial link,” Zahar stated. This observation directly inspired the creation of FightCamp. “Our vision was to offer a platform enabling individuals to utilize the technology not only during coached workouts, but also to learn the fundamentals of boxing through a structured, beginner-friendly program accessible from their homes,” he elaborated.
FightCamp: Package Options and Features
FightCamp presents a selection of three distinct equipment packages: the Connect, priced at $439 (or $399 during promotional periods); the Personal, available for $1,219 (often discounted to $999 during sales); and the Tribe, costing $1,299.
Beyond the initial hardware purchase, a monthly subscription of $39 is required to access the platform’s extensive content library.
This subscription unlocks over 1,000 classes, drills, and supplementary materials through both the iOS and Android applications.
The training regimen extends beyond simple punching techniques.
Workouts incorporate elements of kickboxing, and a dedicated feature within the app ensures each session concludes with targeted core exercises, such as situps and planks.
Connect Package Details
The Connect package is designed for individuals who already possess a punching bag.
It includes the digital punch trackers and quick wraps, omitting the bag itself.
Personal Package Breakdown
The Personal package, the one utilized for testing, offers a comprehensive setup.
It comprises the punch trackers, quick wraps, gloves, a free-standing bag, and a bag ring.
Previously, a mat was also included, though current offerings no longer feature this addition.
Tribe Package: For the Whole Family
As the name suggests, the FightCamp Tribe package is geared towards multiple users.
It includes punch trackers, quick wraps, a free-standing bag, a heavy workout mat, premium boxing gloves, a bag ring, and additional premium gloves and wraps.
Furthermore, the Tribe package incorporates boxing gloves specifically designed for children.
Initial Setup and Unboxing
Image Credits: Kirsten KorosecThe FightCamp Personal system arrived in two separate shipments. One large cardboard container housed the punching bag and its supporting base, while the second contained the punch trackers, hand wraps, a protective mat, and a set of boxing gloves.
The included setup guide and tracker preparation instructions are straightforward. However, assembling the system can be a somewhat cumbersome process, particularly when determining the optimal location for the bag.
The initial step involves positioning the base on the floor mat. This base is then weighted using either water or sand. I found it convenient to use a garden hose to fill the base directly, significantly reducing the setup duration. Alternatively, filling can be accomplished with buckets or pitchers, though this is more physically demanding.
A crucial point to remember is the final placement of the base. Once filled with weight and the bag is secured, the entire unit becomes extremely difficult to relocate without the aid of a dolly.
I initially made an error by positioning the base incorrectly, resulting in a suboptimal workout orientation facing away from the television. Rectifying this mistake dramatically improved the overall experience.
Evaluating Performance and Limitations
Image Credits: Kirsten KorosecThe punch trackers, as shown in the image, function precisely as intended, accurately recording each strike. The accompanying application is intuitive and user-friendly, offering a comprehensive library of workouts.
These workouts are all guided by certified instructors – USA Boxing coaches and NASM Certified Personal Trainers. A particularly beneficial feature is the integration of core exercises directly following boxing or kickboxing sequences.
FightCamp also provides shadowboxing classes, designed to introduce newcomers to the terminology and fundamental punches and jabs. This allows users to familiarize themselves before receiving their equipment, including the bag, gloves, wraps, and trackers.
Despite its strengths, FightCamp presents certain limitations that may influence a potential buyer’s decision. One significant factor is the considerable space required for the system.
Individuals living in smaller apartments may find the bag’s footprint intrusive, while those with larger homes or garages are likely to be more accommodating. Fortunately, sufficient space was available during my evaluation.
A primary challenge I encountered was the difficulty in following the instructor without a nearby television. This was particularly noticeable during initial workouts. Proper visibility is crucial for effective training.
The instructional content itself is presented clearly and is easily digestible. The coaches effectively balance encouragement with precise guidance, maintaining user motivation and understanding. I personally found the sessions to be quite educational.
However, a period of adaptation is necessary. Initially, before connecting my phone to a TV, I frequently paused the video to review previous movements. This disrupted the flow of the workout.
Streaming the workouts on a television significantly improved my ability to follow along. With continued use, I progressed to the point where I could anticipate movements based on verbal cues – for example, understanding that “1-2-3” corresponds to jab, cross, and lead hook.
Ultimately, the system lacks the capability to assess and provide feedback on proper form. This may not be a concern for users primarily seeking a vigorous workout. However, those focused on technique refinement may find this absence limiting.
Future Expansion Plans for FightCamp
Khalid Zahar and the team at FightCamp are charting a course for significant growth, extending beyond just content offerings. Their vision includes the development of additional trackers designed to deliver more detailed performance feedback and enhance the gamification of workouts.
As Zahar explained, the ultimate aim is to transform the human body into an interactive gaming interface. These trackers are instrumental in enabling users to utilize their physical movements as input for a game-like experience.
Currently, users can leverage data gathered from wrist-worn punch trackers to engage in competitive challenges and track their individual advancement. Zahar’s ambition is to incorporate trackers for the feet as well.
The long-term strategy involves expanding to encompass all points of contact during a fighter’s training regimen, creating a fully integrated fitness ecosystem. This includes transforming items like jump ropes, battle ropes, kettlebells, and plyo boxes into connected fitness tools that reward every movement performed during a workout.
Zahar emphasizes that FightCamp’s aspirations extend beyond being solely an equipment-focused fitness solution. The introduction of new trackers and content that doesn’t necessitate a punching bag are key to achieving this broader objective.
FightCamp is actively increasing the amount of freely available content. A recent announcement detailed plans to provide over 100 free workouts each week. These workouts are designated as “tracker optional,” meaning they are accessible without requiring the punch trackers.
The free workout library will encompass a variety of disciplines, including shadowboxing, recovery sessions, stretching routines, kickboxing drills, and body weight exercises. Initially, these free workouts will be exclusively available through the iOS application, as the newly launched Android app remains in its beta testing phase.
Expanding the Connected Fitness Experience
- Wrist Trackers: Currently used for competition and progress monitoring.
- Foot Trackers: Planned addition to enhance data capture.
- Connected Accessories: Integration with equipment like jump ropes and kettlebells.
- Tracker Optional Workouts: Free content accessible without FightCamp equipment.
The company’s focus is on creating a holistic and engaging fitness experience, leveraging technology to motivate and track progress.
