Reaction training has long been a staple for many high-caliber strength and conditioning programs, promising substantial cognitive benefits for the athlete and decreased response times to stimuli. Over the years, trainers have developed plans for differing types of agility training but often lacked access to the high-tech light systems that many of the major-league NCAA teams had in their training facilities. Planned and reactive agility sessions occurred in small groups at elite institutions, keeping the benefits of this cognitive stimulus from the masses. BlazePod has stepped in to fill that void, providing reaction training hardware and intuitive smartphone software so that you can train your brain and build those gains just about anywhere.
The intent is for BlazePods to have many uses. The original light touch sensors were for a slight tap of the hand, but BlazePods can withstand much more. Each kit, which ships with six Pods, can withstand slaps, kicks, and punches. Their rugged exterior, a bright multi-color LED lights are designed for longevity and functionality. The Pods have a 40-meter range between them, produce eight different LED colors for diverse training options, and the durable shell withstand heavy use indoors and outdoors.
One of the tremendous benefits of buying any of the BlazePod packages is access to their online training program. Not only does their YouTube page contains over 30 free training programs, but the app itself also has nearly limitless functionality and customization options. This versatility allows you and your training partners to customize a workout with both specific intervals and the ability to track, down to the millisecond, your reaction time, just like with the best fitness tracker.
BlazePods offer their baseline Trainer Kit for $399, which ships with six light pods, a charging base for the pods, and a case for the whole setup. When you buy the Ultimate Bundle for $459, you receive the full Trainer Kit, plus twenty mounting adaptors (suction cups, adapters, and accessories). Pods are available for purchase individually, as well as the charging station in case you misplace something or want to add something extra to your kit.
One exciting element of the BlazePod movement is the variety of sport disciplines putting the technology to work. Given that the coach or trainer can dial in several timing and scoring possibilities, and track athletes down to the millisecond, it’s easy to dream up several incredible applications for all kinds of sports. A quick scan of YouTube shows athletes from lacrosse, to badminton, to boxing, to ice hockey, all building workout routines into their sport-specific training to ensure that their cognitive function and physical reaction time is top-notch. Trainers from all over the world are finding new and innovative ways to build this into their program.
“BlazePod has added an element of fun, excitement, and challenge to our facility, for both junior athletes and adults. They make a great addition to any workout, by incorporating agility, cognitive awareness, sports performance, cardiovascular challenges, and allowing clients to leave with a smile on their face.” Said Greg Johnson, Owner & Trainer, Varimax Fitness.
Starting at $299 for the Standard Kit, this isn’t an inexpensive piece of gym equipment, but neither is some of the most versatile and often used gear in your home or professional environment. Just remember that once you start with the Standard Kit, you can keep adding Pods, attachments, and other accessories. You can keep building on this set for years to come, never running out of creative ways to bring bespoken training programs into your everyday routine.
