Unlock Your Potential: The Top 5 Smart Gadgets Transforming Your Workouts

jtinoue
Jan 7, 2021
3 min read

Updated: Jul 21, 2025

If you're training to win on the mats, in the boardroom, or in life, then your workouts should work as hard as you do.

Today, smart technology is changing the game. Whether you're a high-performing athlete, a busy entrepreneur, or a weekend warrior, the right fitness tech can help you train smarter, recover faster, and perform at your peak.

Here are the top 5 smart fitness gadgets that I personally recommend to level up your training, recovery, and accountability.

1. Whoop 4.0 – Recovery-First Performance Tracking

The Whoop 4.0 isn’t just a fitness tracker, it’s a stress management system for high performers. Unlike traditional wearables, Whoop focuses on recovery, sleep, and strain, not just steps or calories.

Why it’s a game-changer:

Tracks HRV, sleep quality, and recovery with real-time data
Helps you know when to push or rest
Great for Jiu-Jitsu athletes and high-stress professionals

Pro Tip: Use it to plan your training intensity around your recovery—not your schedule.

2. Tonal – Smart Strength Training at Home

Tonal combines AI, digital weights, and guided strength programming all from your wall.

Why it’s smart:

Adjusts resistance in real time for optimal load
Tracks progressive overload automatically
Perfect for busy execs who train at home

Pro Tip: Pair Tonal workouts with BJJ mobility sessions on off days to stay agile and strong.

3. Normatec 3.0 – Compression Recovery System

You can’t train hard if you don’t recover hard. The Normatec compression boots are trusted by UFC fighters, NFL athletes, and Olympic performers to accelerate muscle repair and reduce soreness.

Why it’s worth it:

Improves circulation
Decreases inflammation
Speeds up recovery between intense sessions

Pro Tip: Use them post-roll or heavy lifts while reviewing training footage or listening to mindset podcasts.

4. Perch – Velocity-Based Training for Powerlifters & Athletes

If you want to take your lifting to the next level, Perch measures bar speed and power output in real time, without wires or wearables.

Why it matters:

Velocity = force + speed = better performance
Helps auto-regulate your training for max results
Tracks fatigue and CNS readiness through bar speed

Pro Tip: Ideal for those training for explosive power in sports like BJJ or wrestling.

5. 🎧 Jabra Elite 8 Active – Focused, Sweatproof Audio

Sometimes the best gadget isn’t about metrics, it’s about mindset. Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds stay in during lifts, runs, rolls, or sprints, delivering powerful sound and blocking distractions.

Why it’s underrated:

Noise cancellation for deep focus
Secure fit for dynamic workouts
Long battery life for full training blocks

Pro Tip: Build a power playlist that anchors your best training days and use it on high-effort sessions only.

Smart Tech + Smart Habits = Unstoppable Progress

Gadgets are just tools. The key is how you use them. The best athletes and entrepreneurs I work with don’t chase trends, they leverage tools with purpose.

Whether you’re chasing performance on the mats, in the gym, or in your business, the right tech can help you train efficiently, recover better, and stay accountable.