Skip to content Have you ever wondered about that futuristic fitness device that keeps appearing on your Instagram feed? It’s called MIRROR, and it’s part of a growing trend of at-home workout products. In this article, fitness writer Ingrid Skjong shares her experience and insights about MIRROR to help you make an informed decision before purchasing.
MIRROR is not your average workout mirror – it’s a smart mirror that streams both on-demand and live fitness classes from a companion app. With a variety of workout types available, including cardio, yoga, boxing, and more, MIRROR offers a personalized and private fitness experience. In addition to its sleek design and seamless operation, MIRROR also provides features like real-time heart rate data, instructor access to your profile, and the chance to interact with other participants. While the price tag of $1495 plus monthly subscription fees may seem steep, it’s important to consider the convenience and motivation that comes with exercising from home. Stay tuned for Wirecutter’s full review of MIRROR coming soon, as we dive deeper into whether this connected fitness equipment is the right fit for your goals.
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What is the Mirror?
Mirror overview
The Mirror is a smart mirror that streams on-demand and live fitness classes from a companion app, allowing users to work out at home. It combines high design and high-tech features to create a unique fitness experience. With its sleek design and ability to display both the instructor and the user’s reflection, it offers a private class-like experience.
Features of the Mirror
The Mirror offers a wide range of workout options, including cardio, yoga, barre, boxing, Pilates, strength training, and stretching. It caters to different fitness levels, with workouts ranging from level one beginner to level four advanced. Users have access to over 70 live classes a week as well as a collection of on-demand options. The Mirror app serves as the home base for users to browse workout types, choose a class, and view details such as equipment needed, exercise order, and duration. Additionally, the Mirror supports music streaming from its own stations and Spotify Premium. Users can adjust the volume of the music and the instructor independently, based on their preferences. The screen displays important workout details such as a countdown clock, calories burned, and real-time heart rate data if a Bluetooth heart rate monitor is connected. It also shows the names of other participants in the class and indicates whether the workout is live or on-demand. Instructors have access to users’ profiles, heart rate data, and class milestones, allowing for personalized shout-outs during live classes. At the end of each workout, users have the opportunity to take a congratulatory selfie. The Mirror also offers the potential for one-on-one personal training via a camera at the top of the device, with the ability to close off the camera with a lens cap for privacy.
Why is the Mirror popular?
Trends in the fitness industry
The Mirror’s popularity can be attributed to its ability to tap into two major trends in the fitness industry: connected fitness and the rise of boutique fitness studios. Connected fitness refers to streamed on-demand workouts done at home that offer the same benefits as a traditional brick and mortar studio, such as the ability to follow a favorite instructor or participate in live group workouts. This allows users to enjoy the benefits of a fitness class without the constraints of travel and scheduling. Additionally, boutique fitness studios, such as Orangetheory, Barry’s Bootcamp, and barre3, have gained significant market share in recent years. These studios offer specialized workouts and foster a sense of community that traditional gyms may lack.
Competition in the market
While the Mirror is a popular option in the at-home fitness space, it does face competition from other brands such as Peloton and the Echelon Reflect. These brands have also capitalized on the increasing popularity of connected fitness and the rise of boutique fitness studios. The presence of competition in the market highlights the demand for convenient and high-quality at-home workout solutions.
Using the Mirror
Navigating the Mirror app
The Mirror app serves as the central hub for users to browse workout types and choose a class. It provides detailed information about each workout, including the equipment needed, exercise sequence, and duration. Users can also read instructor bios to learn more about the individuals leading the classes. The app offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to find and select the desired workout.
Instructor and workout experience
One unique aspect of using the Mirror is that the instructor is front and center, along with the user’s own reflection. This setup simulates the experience of taking a private class and allows users to closely follow the instructor’s movements and cues. While the initial adjustment to seeing oneself on screen can take a moment, many users find the experience immersive and motivating. Instructors have access to users’ profiles, heart rate data, and class milestones, allowing for personalized shout-outs and a sense of connection during live classes.
Music and volume control
The Mirror offers its own music stations, as well as support for Spotify Premium. Users can adjust the volume of the music and the instructor independently, depending on their preferences. This allows for a customizable audio experience that can enhance the workout and create a more immersive environment.
Tracking features
The Mirror’s screen displays essential workout information, including a countdown clock, calories burned, and real-time heart rate data if a Bluetooth heart rate monitor is connected. Users can track their progress and monitor their performance during each session. Additionally, the screen shows the names of other participants in the class, creating a sense of community even in a virtual setting.
Cost and investment
Pricing details
To own a Mirror, customers have to pay $1495, which includes resistance bands, a heart rate monitor, and a screen cleaning kit. Additionally, there is a $250 fee for setup and delivery. To access the Mirror’s classes and features, users need to subscribe for $39 per month. When considering the first-year cost, including the initial purchase and monthly subscription fees, users can expect to spend nearly $200 per month.
Comparing to gym memberships
It’s important to note that the cost of a Mirror subscription may appear relatively high compared to the national average cost of a monthly gym membership, which is around $52. However, owning a Mirror offers the convenience of not having to leave home to work out, as well as the benefits of group classes and personalized instruction. For individuals who value these aspects and find motivation through them, the investment in a Mirror may be worthwhile.
Is the Mirror a worthwhile investment?
Considerations for individual fitness goals
When deciding whether the Mirror is a worthwhile investment, it’s essential to consider one’s individual fitness goals and preferences. For individuals who prioritize convenience, the ability to work out at home, and the benefits of group classes or personalized instruction, the Mirror can be a valuable fitness tool. However, those who prefer the atmosphere of a traditional gym or thrive on in-person interaction with instructors and fellow exercisers may find the Mirror less appealing.
Wirecutter’s upcoming review
For a more in-depth analysis of the Mirror, Wirecutter plans to release a full review of the product. This review will provide further insights into the Mirror’s performance, features, and overall value. Individuals interested in making an informed decision about whether to invest in a Mirror should stay tuned for Wirecutter’s review.
