BONK GEAR’S “BURPEE” GREY STRENGTH/AGILITY MEN’S T-SHIRT (XL) PRODUCT REVIEW: My initial thoughts of a “smart-shirt” left me feeling a little uneasy when a friend of mine told me about Bonk Gear. I was hesitant at first to give this shirt a try because I’ve never relied on a QR Code for workouts nor did I ever see myself using that functionality.
However, I did consider this to be a great tool to provide our clients and considered how it could potentially benefit our community/clients while they are traveling, out of the gym, in a time crunch with schedules and/or looking to mix up their routine. When I received my Bonk Gear “BURPEE” shirt I was excited to put it to the test and see if it was worthy of our endorsement.
TECH SPECS:
QR code on the interior hem of the shirt links to one of 9 rotating daily BURPEE workouts purposefully including traditional and variations on the classic BURPEE. The workouts offer 3 levels of difficulty from beginner, intermediate and BONK and are a combination of cardio and strength training offering any athlete a challenging and effective full-body workout.
4.1 oz, 100% polyester knit interlock performance fabric features dry wicking and anti-microbial technology. Coverstitch at shoulder, neck, sleeve and bottom hem.
BONKGEAR apparel is the only brand that provides you with the means to enhance or maintain your fitness level by ensuring that you always have a workout with you. Strategically placed QR codes on the interior of the shirt links you daily to one of 9 rotating workouts customized to each specific shirttopic targeting the interests of the athlete. The BURPEE, RUNNER and KETTLE shirts guarantees that your workout will include or focus on that topic while the WOD and BONK shirts will provide a diverse cardio and strength workout focused on challenging every athlete at any fitness level.
BONKGEAR believes that in providing the workouts on a rotation gives you the opportunity to track your progress with the same workout and to push yourself with new and demanding routines. Each workout provides 3 intensity levels: Level 1, Level 2, and BONK for the most advanced workout.BONKGEAR workouts are provided by certified personal trainers and geared toward a moderate to high fitness ability.
Modifications should always be made with any workout to challenge you within your personal limits and to accommodate any injuries or limitations. You should consult your physician before making any major changes in lifestyle or physical activity.
SUMMARY:
THE OVERALL : I have to admit this shirt is pretty awesome. First and foremost, Made in the USA. That alone is a huge plus out of the box. I was most impressed my the lightweight feel both in my hands and on my back. And if it couldn’t get any better the look of the shirt had me at hello.
They have done a great job of giving a quick history lesson on how the burpee originated through an awesome infographic that is both eye-catching and legit. I’ve got a couple buddies that have already asked where I got the shirt.
THE FIT : The fit is great. I have a longer torso and it fits well in the shoulders and isn’t too short when going overhead with a barbell, dumbbell or kettlebell. The benefit too is that this is also a shirt that I would wear outside of the gym as well and would look good with a pair of jeans. I thought the QR Tag was going to be itchy or an irradiation but no complaints there.
THE SWEAT : When I train, I sweat heavily (as you should or you aren’t going hard enough) and this wasn’t like I was wearing a cotton fruit of the loom. I stayed comfortable, cool and felt like my skin could breath. Solid performance.
THE “SKINNY” : I think the shirt is solid. The look, feel, fit and performance is as good as its technology. Would I personally use this shirt daily or during the week for its ability to provide workouts? Probably not, but maybe. For me the QR Tag is the icing on the cake. Would I use this as a daily training shirt for its comfort, performance and design/look? Absolutely. (**Don’t stop here, keep reading.**) With that being said, I do think that for someone that doesn’t have an extensive programming/training/coaching background (i.e. client, member of community, someone new to fitness, gym goer, etc) this shirt is an excellent addition to his/her wardrobe for the benefits both physically and aesthetically. This shirt is definitely one that I would recommend my clients and consider as giving as a gift to clients/members nearing Christmas. Lastly I think this is a great piece of gear to have for a client to use for “homework WODS” and be able to implement a solid workout and not miss a beat with progress toward his/her goals.
PROS & CONS: Pros -Comfortable-Functional-Lightweight -Attractive Style/Logo Design-Fits well to larger frame
-Versatile
Cons
-The tech benefits of the shirt may be more than the higher level athlete/coach may desire
-With the 9 rotating workout options, the user may become bored with having only 9 rotating options
APPLICATIONS:
-CrossFit/Daily WOD
-Strength Training
-Running
-Hiking
-Travel
-Casual Wear
-Weightlifting
-KB Training
-Martial Arts
-Sport Performance
WARRIOR APFT Workouts – a QR code on the interior hem of the shirt links your smartphone to daily rotating WARRIOR APFT workouts selected to help improve your APFT test scores. The workouts are designed by strength and conditioning specialist, Stew Smith, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, former Navy SEAL Lieutenant, and an author of several fitness and self-defense books.
4.1 oz, 100% polyester knit interlock performance fabric features dry wicking and anti-microbial technology. Coverstitch at shoulder, neck, sleeve and bottom hem.
Per BONKGEAR: “BONKGEAR apparel is the only brand that provides you with the means to enhance or maintain your fitness level by ensuring that you always have a workout with you. Strategically placed QR codes on the interior of the shirt links you daily to one of 9 rotating workouts customized to each specific shirttopic targeting the interests of the athlete. The BURPEE, RUNNER and KETTLE shirts guarantees that your workout will include or focus on that topic while the WOD and BONK shirts will provide a diverse cardio and strength workout focused on challenging every athlete at any fitness level.
BONKGEAR believes that in providing the workouts on a rotation gives you the opportunity to track your progress with the same workout and to push yourself with new and demanding routines. Each workout provides 3 intensity levels: Level 1, Level 2, and BONK for the most advanced workout.
BONKGEAR workouts are provided by certified personal trainers and geared toward a moderate to high fitness ability. Modifications should always be made with any workout to challenge you within your personal limits and to accommodate any injuries or limitations. You should consult your physician before making any major changes in lifestyle or physical activity.”
ABOUT THE TESTER:
Rob Jenkins is owner of Functional Grind Athletics and Your Home Personal Trainer. He holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise Science, CrossFit Level 1 and CrossFit Movement & Mobility certifications and has over 11 years of Strength & Conditioning experience working with clients of all ages, backgrounds and ability levels as well as individuals in our law enforcement and military communities.
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