Row, Row, Row Your Phone - A Playful Charging Reminder

Human-Powered Energy: SportsArt's Innovative Rowing Machine

Amidst the disruptions of a global pandemic – impacting both supply networks and fitness routines – SportsArt, a manufacturer of professional gym equipment, unveiled a unique rowing machine.

This machine possesses the capability to convert the user’s exertion into electricity, effectively feeding power back into the electrical grid. It functions similarly to renewable energy sources like wind turbines or solar panels, but utilizes human muscle power instead.

Generating Electricity Through Exercise

The rower incorporates a micro-inverter, allowing users to charge devices, such as smartphones, with each rowing stroke. The company estimates a full charge for a depleted iPhone requires approximately two hours of rowing.

Interestingly, the prospect of a low battery served as a motivating factor to engage with the exercise equipment. The handlebar features fingertip controls for adjusting resistance, with higher resistance levels generating increased power output.

Demonstration and Rationale at CES

SportsArt showcased its G260 rower at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, asserting that the machine converts roughly 74% of expended energy into usable electricity.

Discussions with the company’s COO revealed the reasoning behind harnessing human power. Carina Kuo, CEO and COO of SportsArt America, explained that an hour of exercise could generate energy comparable to the consumption of a refrigerator – around 220 watts per hour.

However, Kuo clarified that powering a vehicle like a Tesla is not currently feasible. The primary goal is to offset the energy consumption of the workout itself.

SportsArt: A Global Company

SportsArt has operated for over four decades, originating in Taiwan and establishing U.S. operations in Seattle. The company also maintains offices in Germany and Switzerland.

With a workforce of 300 employees and sales in 80 countries, SportsArt primarily serves gyms and rehabilitation centers, while also exploring opportunities in the home fitness market.

Kuo suggests that shared gym facilities within apartment complexes represent a more suitable initial target for the company.

Impact of the Pandemic and Focus on Quality

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased residential sales within the fitness industry. Kuo acknowledges the competitive landscape, where price often outweighs quality.

“We believe in quality,” Kuo stated, emphasizing the longevity of SportsArt equipment, with machines still in use after 10-15 years in gyms and medical settings. The company prioritizes premium components and offers an industry-leading warranty.

Commercial Applications and Sustainability

The power-generating capability is particularly advantageous for commercial gyms, where consistent usage can demonstrably reduce electricity bills. A stationary rower unused 95% of the time wouldn't provide the same benefit.

SportsArt is strategically identifying optimal market segments for its technology, highlighting its long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability and recyclability.

The company believes this technology allows gyms to promote a message of sustainability to their members.