Tim
09-10-2009, 09:37 PM
Hi all, I'm experimenting with a few new features for the free workout timer.
One request that comes up repeatedly is to have the timer call out random combinations, that the trainee would throw during shadow boxing and/or heavy bag workout or DE bag workout.
I've implemented a rough prototype here : http://speedbagforum.com/timerbeta.html
The "Virtual Coach" option has 4 different levels: Basic - single punches called out at random and at a deliberately leisure pace, Combos - some (but not all) of the classic combinations, and Random - random strings of multiple punches that may or may not make sense - such as Uppercut, Jab, Jab , for example. Finally, Advanced provides a randomly selected combo followed by up to 4 randomly selected punches.
There's also a "Pace" option that ranges from Slow to Fast to Insanity.
I'd be interested to hear thoughts and feedback. I always blew the idea off as being somewhat gimmicky, but having done a few quick workouts with it, it seems like it might be of interest at least to some of the more casual trainees. At age 37 I don't intend to ever get in the ring, but I like the boxing style workout because it keeps it interesting and staves off boredom. Having these voice commands seems like it keeps the pace kicked up a bit. I guess the target trainee I have in mind is some older guy or young kid working out on his own or in his garage ... and obviously with a computer or laptop nearby.
A few of my own thoughts:
1. I'm not using the normal convention of punch numbering , i.e. the old 1-2 combination. I think that's confusing for beginners. I'd rather hear "Jab, Cross" than "1,2" personally, but again I'm a casual trainee (at best) with little formal instruction. Maybe that's too far out of sync with real boxing training and needs to be changed.
2. The non number system I'm using assumes a traditional stance boxer. Sorry southpaws.
3. I've not got all the combinations programmed in yet.
I guess what I'm asking is if any of you would find this useful, please give it a try and let me know your feedback. What needs to be changed or done differently?
One request that comes up repeatedly is to have the timer call out random combinations, that the trainee would throw during shadow boxing and/or heavy bag workout or DE bag workout.
I've implemented a rough prototype here : http://speedbagforum.com/timerbeta.html
The "Virtual Coach" option has 4 different levels: Basic - single punches called out at random and at a deliberately leisure pace, Combos - some (but not all) of the classic combinations, and Random - random strings of multiple punches that may or may not make sense - such as Uppercut, Jab, Jab , for example. Finally, Advanced provides a randomly selected combo followed by up to 4 randomly selected punches.
There's also a "Pace" option that ranges from Slow to Fast to Insanity.
I'd be interested to hear thoughts and feedback. I always blew the idea off as being somewhat gimmicky, but having done a few quick workouts with it, it seems like it might be of interest at least to some of the more casual trainees. At age 37 I don't intend to ever get in the ring, but I like the boxing style workout because it keeps it interesting and staves off boredom. Having these voice commands seems like it keeps the pace kicked up a bit. I guess the target trainee I have in mind is some older guy or young kid working out on his own or in his garage ... and obviously with a computer or laptop nearby.
A few of my own thoughts:
1. I'm not using the normal convention of punch numbering , i.e. the old 1-2 combination. I think that's confusing for beginners. I'd rather hear "Jab, Cross" than "1,2" personally, but again I'm a casual trainee (at best) with little formal instruction. Maybe that's too far out of sync with real boxing training and needs to be changed.
2. The non number system I'm using assumes a traditional stance boxer. Sorry southpaws.
3. I've not got all the combinations programmed in yet.
I guess what I'm asking is if any of you would find this useful, please give it a try and let me know your feedback. What needs to be changed or done differently?