Ineffective fitness research

Learn about ineffective fitness

Man working out on outdoor strength machines at fitness site in Kypegården

What is ineffective fitness?

The term ‘ineffective fitness’ refers to equipment or concepts that present themselves as effective training options, possibly by having the same appearance as other well-known training methods, but – when applied – do not result in any meaningful physiological effect. Some of the most obvious examples of this can be seen in outdoor fitness equipment, for example in the form of cardio or strength training equipment that takes design inspiration from indoor fitness equipment, but is constructed without the same options for adjusting resistance or workload.

Do you wish to learn more?

Morten Zacho, Head of the KOMPAN Fitness Institute, has written this insightful whitepaper to provide a comprehensive guide on the critical concept of "ineffective fitness." In this document, he delves into the key factors that contribute to ineffective fitness equipment and practices. Through detailed research and analysis, he highlights the challenges posed by equipment that may appear beneficial but ultimately fails to deliver meaningful physiological benefits. This whitepaper serves as an essential resource for understanding the pitfalls of ineffective fitness and offers valuable recommendations for ensuring that outdoor fitness equipment promotes real health outcomes.

Ineffective fitness

Ineffective fitness

Download White paper

5 Facts About Ineffective Fitness

1. Common Issues with Outdoor Equipment

Many outdoor fitness machines are designed for light intensity training. Therefore, they are ineffective for moderate or high intensity training. For example, bicycles and cross trainers often provide less training benefits than brisk walking.

2. Effectiveness Criteria for Cardio Equipment

To be considered effective, outdoor cardio equipment must allow users to reach an intensity of at least 14-15 on the Borg RPE scale (65% of maximum heart rate), the threshold for beneficial cardiovascular exercise​

3. Strength Training Effectiveness

Effective strength training requires equipment that enables at least 60% of maximum muscle force capacity, equating to the heaviest load a user can lift 15 times. If the equipment can't challenge users at this level, it's considered ineffective​

4. Functional Training Alternatives

Outdoor fitness equipment that focuses on bodyweight functional movements, balance and coordination can still be effective for health benefits but needs to be evaluated differently from cardio or strength equipment​

5. Distinction Between Fitness Equipment Types

Not all fitness equipment can be classified as either effective or ineffective purely based on physiological intensity. Some equipment is designed to target other aspects, such as balance, mobility, coordination, and psychological benefits. These types of equipment should be evaluated for their effectiveness based on their intended purpose. However, outdoor fitness sites that lack equipment with clear, measurable effectiveness should be approached with skepticism

KOMPAN Sport & Fitness

KOMPAN Fitness Institute has a mission to create and spread effectual exercise in the outdoors to gain a public health effect. Freely available outdoor gyms have the potential of bringing people together and make training accessible for all. The KOMPAN Fitness Institute collaborates with universities and follows scientific research closely. The accumulated knowledge is leveraged in product development with user tests and functionality design. The aim is to create fitness equipment at the same quality and equally effective as you would expect from a commercial indoor gym.

Webinars and white papers about outdoor fitness

OxygenUptake CrossTrainer 1920

Science behind: How does the cross trainer work

Fitness

White Paper

People working out at an outdoor gym

Benefits of Exercising Outdoors

How to create outdoor fitness sites for senior citizens

outdoor fitness site for different users. Strength and street working equipment

Creating outdoor fitness sites for different types of users

Active Aging Fitness

Why Cardio is Important

5 Tips for an Efficient Cardio Workout

10 Advantages of an Outdoor Stationary Bike

Activating the inactive

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Designing Outdoor Fitness Sites

Outdoor gym with strength training machines at Kypegården

The 7 best outdoor fitness sites in the world

Inclusive Outdoor Fitness

An aerial view of a school playground with fitness and ball game area

New insights on activity spaces for teenagers

The benefits of exercising outdoors versus indoors

The benefits of exercising outdoors versus indoors