Cycling superstar Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck) not only made headlines this spring with his Classics successes in Sanremo and Roubaix. Like Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team Emirates - XRG), the Dutchman also skilfully showcased his watch sponsor by wearing a Richard Mille chronometer costing more than 300,000 euros during the race. It almost went unnoticed that the classic specialist was wearing another, comparatively inconspicuous accessory on his right wrist: a fitness tracker from Whoop.
Facts & figures about Whoop 5.0 and MG
- Model variants: Whoop 5.0 and Whoop MG (Medical Grade)
- Battery life: up to 14 days
- Weight: 27 grams (including wristband)
- Functions: ECG measurement, blood pressure recording, biological age, etc.
- Prices: 199 to 399 euros/year, three subscription models
The US brand is now presenting a new generation of the wearable. The Whoop 5.0 and Whoop MG are the first two versions of the tracker. In addition to a slightly smaller design, the main innovation is the longer battery life. Both versions should last up to 14 days on a single charge, whereas the predecessor ran out of power after a maximum of five days according to the manufacturer. Improved sensors record data 26 times per second, while a newly developed processor delivers ten times greater energy efficiency. Thanks to a small power bank that charges the tracker inductively, the new Whoop should be able to collect fitness and health data for up to four weeks. However, the wireless "Power Pack" is only included with the most expensive subscription model.
Focus on the heart: ECG and blood pressure
As the new generation remains a pure fitness tracker without a display, the numerous functions can only be used in combination with a smartphone. One of the new features is "Healthspan". This involves the calculation of biological age and the rate of ageing, which was developed in cooperation with a Belgian gerontologist. As with modern smartwatches, it should also be possible to carry out an ECG measurement (electrocardiogram). This function is only possible with the Whoop MG because, unlike the Whoop 5.0, it has two sensor recesses on the side of the device into which the thumb and index finger must be placed. The so-called "Heart Screener" is designed to recognise signs of atrial fibrillation and notifies the user of an irregular heart rhythm once a day. According to the manufacturer, the function has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The blood pressure recording function is still in the beta stage but can already be used. However, Whoop expressly points out that the function only provides estimated systolic and diastolic values and does not replace a medical device. The wearable also offers women the possibility of analysing how hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle affect performance. In addition, the familiar evaluation of sleep quality is more accurate. In addition to cycling, fitness tracking now includes over 145 activities, from daily steps and VO₂ Max to muscular exertion. The function can be used to monitor and improve your own performance. Coaching using artificial intelligence, which Whoop introduced last yearcan still be used in beta studies.
Prices for Whoop 5.0 and MG
An annual Whoop membership is required to use the new functions. The three new models are called One, Peak and Life. These cost 199, 264 or 399 euros for twelve months. The US company is also offering new accessories such as wristbands and functional clothing. Due to the smaller size of the tracker, the wristbands of the old generations cannot be combined with the new devices.
Julian Schultz
Editor
