GymSoles++: combining Google glass with smart insoles to improve body posture when performing squats

In pandemic times, public facilities, such as gymnasiums and other sports facilities are closed. Hence, keeping oneself physically fit becomes particularly difficult as well as getting help from a fitness trainer or instructor is almost impossible. We propose an alternative solution, GymSoles++, a virtual trainer supporting the user with their exercise. This allows users to maintain the correct body posture to avoid injuries when performing exercises such as squats. We combine Google Glass with an unobtrusive sensing approach, an insole-based wearable system that provides feedback on the user's centre of pressure (CoP) via vibrotactile and visual aids. Previous research has shown that solely visualizing the CoP can significantly improve body posture and thus effectively assist users when performing squats and dead-lifts. In this research, we explored different feedback modalities and conclude that a vibrotactile insole is a practical and effective solution.