top of page
Aug 2024 - Dec 2024 | 13 weeks
SwitchFit
SwitchFit is a compact fitness solution combining a cordless jump rope and adjustable weights (1-5 lbs), offering urban residents an efficient way to train at home or on the go.
Industrial Design
FIT Sport Design
Prototyping
Project Type /
University Individual Project
Brief
Design a sports solution for the FIT Sport Design Awards, enhancing performance, comfort, and environmental impact.
Researching Urban Life & Fitness
What is Urban Life?
In urban life, work, recreation, and culture come together seamlessly, shaping a connected and vibrant lifestyle.
It is characterized by high population density, modern style, fast-paced lifestyles, & convenience
What are some
Popular Urban Exercises?
Jump Roping
Cordless jump ropes are ideal for urban spaces as they take up less space, don't tangle, and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Weightlifting
Dumbbells are commonly used in urban spaces due to their compact size, adjustability, and workout flexibility.
Types of Urban Exercisers
Outdoor
Exercises in parks, trails, or public spaces
Issues Encountered:
-
Bulky Equipment
-
Weather Sensitivity
-
Limited Storage
-
Limited Portability
-
Gear Durability
Indoor
Exercises in apartments, houses, and gyms
Issues Encountered:
-
Limited Space
-
Noise Concerns
-
Disorganization
-
Floor Surface
-
Lack of Motivation
Insights from urban residents revealed
common challenges and issues.
“It’s hard to exercise with equipment in my small apartment because there’s not a lot of space.”
- Lani Reyes, 47, Stay-at-Home Mom
“I have trouble finding portable equipment that supports both cardio and strength training.”
- Heiley Klein, 29, Nurse
“With my busy schedule as a medical student, it’s challenging for me to prioritize regular exercise.”
- Katherine Lopez, 24, Medical Student
I aim to design a fitness product that combines jump roping and weightlifting, providing urban residents with an easy, efficient workout solution for small indoor and outdoor spaces.
Form & Style Inspiration
I wanted the aesthetic and form of the product to be compact, adaptable, contemporary, sleek, modular, and use a monotone color palette.
Moving Forward with
Developing and Refining Concepts
01. “Stacking” Concept
In the "Stacking" Concept, users attach weights to the handles for strength training, then swap them for the cordless jump rope pieces to transition seamlessly into jump roping.
02. “Sliding” Concept
In the "Sliding" Concept, users take weights from a case, use them for strength training, and then insert them into jump rope handles for a weighted workout.
Testing Final Concept
Building on the "Sliding" concept, I created a storage case and 3D-printed a test prototype for user evaluation. After gathering feedback and validating the idea, I refined ergonomic and sizing details to create the final prototype of SwitchFit.
Bringing SwitchFit to Life
The set includes 1-3 lb bars,
with optional 4-5 lb add-ons
Fabricating Final Prototype
To make the final prototype, I 3D printed the components, then primed, sanded, and painted each piece. Once dry, I added the finishing details to complete the full SwitchFit set.
SwitchFit Device Interface Overview
Press the power button twice to pair the device with a fitness app. Select weightlifting or jump roping mode to track workout stats for each activity.
Fitness Apps and
Device Pairing
The SwitchFit device syncs with fitness apps to track workout stats.
Stay motivated with goal tracking, stat monitoring, and reminders.
Apple Fitness
MyFitnessPal
JEFIT
Google Fit
Paired with Apple Fitness App
Closer Look at the SwitchFit Device & Weights Bars
The SwitchFit device, made from injection-molded recycled ABS plastic, features a motion sensor chip on the PCB to track motion and stats. The weight bars have a steel core and a PVC coating, and they come in various teal shades to indicate weight levels.
Store up to
3 Weight Sets inside
Stay Active Anytime,
Anywhere, with Ease
bottom of page