Blink Fitness approached our team to reimagine their in-gym experience. Our goal was to create added value for their target audience while positioning Blink as an innovator in the fitness space.
ROLE
As the interaction design lead, I drove UX research, physical prototyping, interaction design, and visual design, working alongside cross-functional team of technical leads, brand designers, data scientists, and strategists.
We interviewed gym members and Blink employees to identify five core needs that shaped our design strategy. Collaborating with engineers, we evaluated NFC, beacons, and proximity tracking for seamless, non-disruptive workout experiences.
Through storyboards, wireframes, and user feedback sessions, we refined concepts and mapped the complete gym journey to identify key digital-physical touchpoints. Using sprint methodology, we delivered a fully functional prototype with targeted micro-experiences.
How emerging technology enhanced the member experience
A dual-platform system connecting member mobile app with staff iPad app through NFC and Bluetooth technology. Members could seamlessly check in, access equipment-specific workouts, request real-time assistance, and automatically track their activity across gym zones. The connected experience transformed physical equipment into smart touchpoints, while enabling staff to provide personalized support at key moments.
Geofencing technology detected approaching members and triggered check-in notifications before they entered the gym. The system enabled digital check-in via app or Apple Wallet while delivering personalized welcome messages based on individual fitness journeys.
NFC technology turned every piece of equipment into a connected touchpoint for personalized workouts, seamless data sync, and member feedback.
Strategically placed beacons detected member location and automatically surfaced relevant equipment information and exercise options. Members could access tutorials or request staff assistance with a single tap.
Beacons throughout the gym automatically tracked member activity and generated detailed workout summaries without manual input. The system provided performance breakdowns and tailored content recommendations based on individual patterns and goals.
The companion iPad app allowed Blink staff (Moodlifters) to receive real-time assistance requests from members. Staff could engage with achievements and provide personalized guidance at key workout moments.
Following our demonstration, Blink deployed the Tap and Learn NFC functionality at multiple NYC locations, with members actively using the tap-to-access feature for machine-specific workouts and content. The successful pilot validated our approach and positioned Blink as a leader in connected fitness experiences.