Fitness

Research

With our guiding principle “FROM THE LAB – TO THE FIELD – TO THE MARKET”, we bridge research and market application to revolutionize the world of movement and training.

Prof. Dr. Anna Martin-Niedecken

How it Started

From the lab - to the field - to the market

Our interdisciplinary team has set itself the task of pushing the boundaries of technology, design and training in order to create new training stimuli and give more people motivating access to exercise.

For the development of our products, we co-operate with renowned research institutes and practical partners all over the world in order to subsequently transfer the knowledge gained and prototypes into marketable solutions.

With our guiding principle “FROM THE LAB – TO THE FIELD – TO THE MARKET” , we are driving forward the link between research and market application in order to revolutionise the world of movement and training.

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Sphery

Research network

Scientific Highlights

Selected ExerCube Training Publications

Cardiovascular Benefits

Our training methods are developed approach centered approach, providing a unique training exprience tailored to each individuals abilities

Cognitive Enhancements

Our training methods are developed approach centered approach, providing a unique training exprience tailored to each individuals abilities

Effective & Motivating High-Intensity Training

Our training methods are developed approach centered approach, providing a unique training exprience tailored to each individuals abilities

Optimal User centered Training Experience

Our training methods are developed approach centered approach, providing a unique training exprience tailored to each individuals abilities

The Power of Body & Brain training

Motivating Training tool for a meaningful, simultaneous Training of physical and cognitive functions

Research shows that Simultaneous physical-cognitive training (dual-task training) improves motor and cognitive performance enhancing flexibility, focus, and divided attention-key for real-life multitasking [1], [2]. The [ExerCube] seamlessly integrates movement and cognition , embedding dual-task challenge in an interactive environment, Every action aligns with a cognitive demand, improving reaction speed, decision-making, coordination, and cognitive flexibility. This high-intensity, game-based approach maximizes effectiveness while keeping user engaged and motivated [3],

 

Link to the publication 

Projects

What the Universities do

Sep 2020 – Apr 2023

[ExerCube]@Home

Home version of ExerCube for diabetes prevention: Effects of video-based training on cardio-metabolic and cognitive health in individuals at increased risk for T2D

As part of this project, a home version of [ExerCube], an immersive fitness exergame, was developed. The aim was to provide individuals at increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) with a safe, motivating and individually adaptable training programme that addresses both physical and cognitive functions simultaneously.

The training system integrates an evidence-based combination of game design, exercise physiology, metabolic research and cognitive training science. An immersive setting and personalised training programmes provide targeted support for cardio-metabolic health, cognitive performance and exercise behaviour in the home environment.

The development was user-centred and incorporated scientific expertise and continuous user feedback. The result is a scientifically sound and practical exergame system that promotes health literacy, improves quality of life and is also suitable as a model for prevention programmes and health economic applications.

Project team and partners

Project management:
Prof. Dr. Anna Lisa Martin-Niedecken

Main research partner:
Prof. Dr. Christoph Stettler, University Hospital Bern

Research partner:
Prof. Nicole Kind | ZHdK.ch

Duration:
July 2020 – January 2021

Funding:
Innosuisse

Project status:
Completed

Patient training physical and cognitive functions during Phase 3 rehabilitation for knee injuries with ExerUp at DIZH.

Sep 2021 - Aug 2023

[ExerUp]

Design and evaluation of a digital exergame-based solution for effective and attractive sports rehabilitation after knee injury

ExerUp focuses on the development of effective and appealing sports rehabilitation training, particularly for recovery from knee injuries. The programme targets phase 3 of the rehabilitation process, in which patients must relearn how to combine their regained physical abilities with cognitive stimuli.

 

Project team and partners

Project lead:
Prof. Dr. Anna Lisa Martin-Niedecken, Prof. Dr. Eveline Graf

Project team ZHAW Department of Health:
Michelle Haas

Project team ZHdK Department of Design:
Prof. Dr Anna Lisa Martin-Niedecken, Larissa Wild, Leander Schneeberger

Project team Sphery AG:
Stephan Niedecken

Project partner:
Win 4

Duration:
September 2021 – August 2023

Funding:
Digitalisation Initiative of Zurich Universities in the Canton of Zurich (DIZH)

Project status:
Completed

May 2021 - Oct 2023

[ExerGetic]

Digital exergame solution for fall prevention in older adults

This innovative research project focused on the development of ExerG, a video-based exergame solution specifically designed for older adults. The aim was to create a safe, customisable and motivating training programme that promotes physical fitness and mental performance at the same time.

Thanks to a body weight support system combined with everyday movements and cognitive training stimuli, a unique, immersive training environment with three-sided projection was created. This allows senior citizens to train in a realistic and motivating setting, improve their mobility, reduce the risk of falls and sustainably increase their quality of life.

This digital solution combines play, exercise and prevention – a milestone in modern health promotion for the elderly.

 

Project team and partners

Sphery AG – sphery.ch
Reha Rheinfeldenreha-rheinfelden.ch
Zurich University of the Arts – zhdk.ch
HCI Games Group, University of Waterloo – hcigames.com
VASCage – vascage.at
Reha Münster – reha-muenster.at

Duration:
May 2021 – October 2023

Funding:
Active Assisted Living Programme

Project status:
Completed

Video Reviews

Research partner projects

Sascha Ketelhut Postdoc. Uni Bern

PD Dr. Sascha Ketelhut, Uni Bern

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Magglingen

Prof. Dr. Eveline Graf, ZHAW

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Prof. Dr. Markus Gerber Uni Basel

Prof. Dr. Markus Gerber, Uni Basel

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