Description One of the biggest factors stopping adults from continuing strength training is injury. Whether they have been injured in the past, suffered an injury during recent activity, or are concerned about future risks, many adults ultimately stop due to this barrier. The 4Support bands are designed to assist with lower body exercises, allowing users to perform strength training safely and confidently. They use a combination of sEMG and IMU sensors to monitor muscle stimulation and knee joint movement throughout your workout, tracking progress and gathering data on form, imbalances, range of motion, and overexertion. This data is then sent to a connected app that provides personalized feedback and support on exercises and stretches to help correct muscle imbalances, reduce fatigue, and promote recovery. In doing so, users develop a deeper understanding of their body’s limits, enabling them to exercise safely and continue strength training with confidence as they age.
Innovation 4Support is an innovative tool for injury prevention, rehabilitation, and confident strength training—particularly for older adults. By integrating advanced sEMG sensors that monitor muscle activation with IMU sensors that track knee movement, the system provides real-time insights into exercise form and muscle performance. This data, delivered through a connected mobile app, offers personalized guidance on managing muscle fatigue, correcting imbalances, and optimizing recovery strategies. Its design, featuring comfortable, sweat-resistant silicone bands and a flexible hinge with magnetic connectors, ensures a secure, reliable fit while enabling efficient data transfer. More than just a device, 4Support creates a community of support and shared progress, helping users understand their bodies and train safely as they age.
Product Detail The 4Support system consists of four silicone bands designed for both comfort and sweat resistance, securely wrapping around the upper and lower sections of each leg. The lower band houses a secondary PCB that collects sensor data and transmits it to the primary PCB in the upper band. These bands are connected by a flexible hinge along the outer knee, integrating magnetic connectors that enable seamless power and data transfer through embedded wiring. Strategically placed sEMG sensors over the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves monitor muscle activation, while IMU sensors positioned at the top and bottom of the knee track joint movement. Together, these sensors work in real time to gather and transmit data via a Bluetooth 4.0 chip in the primary PCB, providing users with valuable insights into their training, mobility, and recovery.
Specification The system features adjustable silicone bands designed to accommodate a wide range of quadricep and calf sizes, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for diverse users. The upper bands weigh approximately 65 grams, while the lower calf bands are around 55 grams, keeping the device lightweight and unobtrusive during workouts. The current concept is presented in a sleek black finish, allowing for a discreet appearance that does not draw attention during strength training. This thoughtful design ensures that users can focus on their performance without distraction, seamlessly integrating the wearable into their routine.
Bio Canadian Industrial Designer from Carleton University's Bachelor of Industrial Design. I have experience designing innovative athletic equipment for the combat industry. My goal is to assist in the design of products, systems, and services that bring value and can enrich the lives of others. I also strive to continuously deepen my knowledge, experience, and empathy for design.
