How Smartphones Measure Up in Tracking Lift Speed

In a recent study, scientists explored whether smartphone apps can accurately measure how fast a barbell moves during powerlifting exercises. They compared three apps - Qwik VBT, Metric VBT, and MyLift - against a commercial device called RepOne. Twenty experienced powerlifters tried out these tools while doing squats, bench presses, and deadlifts, increasing the weight until they reached 90% of their personal best. The apps and device recorded the speed of the barbell, and 3D motion capture was used to create a precise benchmark.

Out of 589 lifts, the apps Metric VBT and MyLift missed 52 and 175 lifts, respectively. When compared to the precise benchmark, RepOne and Qwik VBT showed valid results, with small errors. Metric VBT and MyLift, however, didn't perform as well, except for Metric VBT in the bench press. Overall, smartphone apps can be as accurate as the commercial device for tracking lift speed, with Qwik VBT showing the best results among the apps tested.

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