Activ5 4+

I’m using my Activ5 everyday. Even in confined spaces I can work out. I’m not a complete newbie and I thought I was fairly fit but the intermediate workout is proving challenging. There isn’t an easy version where you can gradually build up to doing the full exercise and it would be great to have videos rather than the static pictures and to be able to cast the app onto my TV or laptop when I’m exercising at home. Those are minor niggles but the lack of a beginner workout might put some people off.

Really wanted to give this a 5* review, but every time I try to get back to using it I get frustrated.

The first issue is hardware… why is it not rechargable, or at least designed to easily replace the battery? The awkward and fragile clips to get to the battery feel like they’re going to break every time I replace it (which is every time I dig it out of the drawer and think maybe I’ll try again)

Second, and the reason it ends up back in the drawer, is the app. It’s iPhone and ‘portrait’ only. No landscape on an iPad, which really isn’t a huge ask for a device that’s really designed to use landscape and that’s how the folios, cases, and even the stand that comes with the device encourage you to use it that way (the iPad falls off if I do put it in portrait orientation!). I gave this feedback when I bought the device - 3, maybe 4, years ago now, support said it was coming “real soon” … guess their idea of soon and mine isn’t the same.

Fix the software, and I’d consider it a 4 star device (the battery situation is going to cost it the final star).

Right now, once again, the device is sitting on my desk, open, waiting for a battery … that I’m probably not going to bother putting in because the landscape issue means I know I’ll use it for a week, never get into the habit, and back in the drawer it’ll go

I’m shocked at how few App Store reviews there are for this system and I hope that doesn’t discourage the makers/developers from continuing work in this product because I think it’s amazing. A full strength workout with a device that fits in the palm of your hand. An app with a multitude of workouts and programs to keep things fresh. What’s not to love? Especially in the pandemic, I can’t believe this thing didn’t take off. It’s perfect for quick workouts in between zoom meetings. And when we get back to normal, I’ll definitely be packing this for work trips to fit workouts in on long flights, in my hotel room, etc. Wonderful product - I hope this never gets abandoned!!!