Is it legit?
Yes! We’ve been asked this question plenty of times. FlexR uses the EMG biofeedback technology to achieve all the awesome features we’ve mentioned on our campaign page. In fact, it is not new technology. EMG biofeedback has been widely used in the medical industry for years, but we channeled it to a new application.
We have now integrated a patented gamification component to reach the highest potential of this technology. Muscle activation is controlled by motor nerves, in which electric signals are transmitted from your brain to the target muscle. FlexR uses a brilliant algorithm to track these signals and filter the noise. By contracting and relaxing different muscles, a human is able to export a variety of movements. If you would like to learn more about the technology, search “EMG biofeedback” on Youtube, you will find some videos.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 10:51
Why does it work?
Muscle activation is controlled by motor nerves in your body, in which electric signals are transmitted from your brain to the target muscle. FlexR uses a brilliant algorithm to track these signals and filter the noise.
RehabFit, the first App of FlexR, helps users perform exercises correctly and have fun at the same time.
Similar body movements may be produced by different sets of muscle activation. When your purpose is to strengthen a specific muscle for rehab or simply for a bodybuilding purpose, the activation of a target muscle becomes critical. That is why fitness trainers are usually quite demanding on the “exercise form”. When you correctly activate a certain muscle, the nerve innervated to that muscles conveys electric signals. FlexR detects those signals and displays it in a meaningful pattern on your cellphone. What is truly exciting about our device is that you can actually play games with these signals to exercise your muscles and even shape your behavior.
If you have experienced planking for a minute, you know it could be one of the most miserable minutes of your life. But with our device you can easily turn it into a 15-20 minute workout without any effort since you will be having fun playing on your smartphone! We are taking advantage of this nature to help those who have difficulty exercising routinely and maintaining high-quality workouts.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 10:51
What are the advantages of backing us on Kickstarter?
First and foremost, you will get a HUGE limited early bird discount. Even if you miss the early bird discount, you can still purchase the “special price” on Kickstarter during our campaign.
Second, you will join our community. The Kickstarter community is great because it is very interactive. Fans sometimes bring great and achievable ideas or suggestions that eventually become our stretch goals (https://www.kickstarter.com/help/search?utf8=%E2%9C%93&term=what+are+stretch+goals%3F).
We also keep updating the latest progress of R&D, manufacturing and delivery. Our Kickstarter backers are our most important asset - we will be open to any suggestions or feedback, even harsh ones. Our goal is to deliver the product beyond your expectation and project to a greater population.
Last updated: December 15, 2016 11:30
Why are you guys so obsessed with muscles?
Besides the fact that the inventor is a physical therapist, who focuses on neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions, he believes that the muscular system is significantly important since it is probably the only body system that does affect the external environment. Think about it, we use the upper extremity to bring food to mouth, use jaw muscles to chew the food, and swallow the food; Waving your hand or winking your eyes (Orbicularis Oculi muscle) to express emotion; Speaking out your opinion to influence others (articulator muscles) - these are all muscles. Our team’s vision is to optimize the lightening-fast interaction between you and technology, and this is just the first step.
Last updated: December 15, 2016 11:28
Is it safe?
FlexR does not deliver any energy to your body - it detects even the slightest muscle activity. The battery in FlexR is only 3.7 V and has passed Battery Safety Testing - IEC 62133 Standard, which guarantees no risk of battery leakage.
The only risk we can think of is muscle cramping or second-day muscle soreness from over-exercising. It happened to a few of our beta testers.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 10:56
Is it a TENS unit or electric stimulation?
Although they look similar to each other, FlexR is not an E-stim or TENS unit. FlexR does not deliver any energy to your body - it only detects your muscle activity. FlexR sends the muscle activation signal to your cell phone, which then gives you feedback in order to achieve a variety of purposes including entertainment or gaining greater awareness etc. You won’t feel pricking in your body like when using TENS units.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 10:56
How do I use FlexR with the RehabFit App?
Using FlexR with RehabFit App is easy. Download the RehabFit App, choose whatever goal you would like to achieve. Then simply follow the instruction given by the App to apply the enclosed electrodes to your muscle. Start game App, go and flex!
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
Are the electrodes (the pads) bundled with the FlexR device? How long does the bundled package last? Where can I restock on electrodes?
Yes. There are two packs of 6 reusable electrodes bundled with the device. We have tested a LOT of electrodes and we think the one we are delivering is the best. You will use 3 electrodes each time, but they are reusable. To extend the life of the electrodes, wipe away the dust over the target skin before use. Stick the electrodes back to the plastic film and store it in a sealed pack away from sun shine. Each reusable electrodes can be used up to 8 - 10 times, that gives about 32 - 40 uses. If you use FlexR every day (which we don’t recommend because we don’t want you to over-exercise), it can cover over a month.
Although quality may vary, the electrodes are nothing too different than ECG electrodes (those pads for measuring heart function). We do provide our own electrodes which we believe are the best on the market. The cost is less than $5 per pack (6 electrodes), TBC. Otherwise, you can get it from anywhere including the local/online medical supply stores or Amazon.com.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 10:56
Will there be other applications available that is compatible to FlexR?
Yes. We are planning to introduce other applications (not necessarily a health and fitness focused application) compatible to FlexR. So you are not buying one application, but you are buying a gadget with unlimited potential!
Last updated: December 13, 2016 10:56
Will there be other games and entertainment available in RehabFit in the future?
Yes. We are planning to add more exciting game themes to RehabFit. We a planning to come out with a music game that users can rock into music while exercising.
We are also actively seeking a third-party game studio’s collaboration to merge the FlexR concept to suitable viral games. We always want to get the best out of FlexR! It could be one stretch goal, exciting?
Last updated: December 13, 2016 10:56
What are you guys doing between now and delivery day?
We have already conducted a beta-test before we launched on Kickstarter. We are going to fine-tune FlexR and RehabFit based on the valuable feedback we receive. We are currently working on the UI to make it more user-friendly, straight-forward and appealing.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 10:56
What do I need to know about open source?
Although we will try our best to make the platform as user-friendly as possible, some basic human anatomy knowledge, especially muscles, is always helpful.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 10:56
Is the App free?
Yes!
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
How do I get the App?
It will be available in early 2017 on iOS App Store and Android Google Play Store. It is compatible to all popular smartphone and tablets, such as Apple iPhone, iPad; Samsung Galaxy; Google Pixel; Huawei Mate; Android tablets etc.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
What about Windows Phone?
Unfortunately, no :(
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
What languages are available in the RehabFit App?
English & Chinese.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
How is the game played?
The first game theme: Endless Tower: When you flex the target muscle that the FlexR is attached to, the avatar in the game will jump accordingly. Flex your muscle or perform an exercise movement at the right moment to dodge all the traps while the avatar keeps running forward. Some traps require the user to tap the specific object in the screen to challenge their multi-task ability. In vertical mode, the user must contract and completely relax the muscle rhythmically to get the avatar climb up. The user also needs to tap the screen to avoid some traps. (See! You just quickly worked out 10 min without noticing it.)
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
Why would I want to play it?
Besides entertainment purpose, you will gain health benefits while having fun!
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
What muscles can I apply FlexR to?
ALL surface muscles. For example, deep abs, back postural muscles, hip muscles, thigh muscles around knee joint etc.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
What is EMG biofeedback, how does it help pain?
Biofeedback is the process of gaining greater awareness of physiological functions by using instant sound, visual signal, or tactile signal with a purpose of being able to control them at will. In the RehabFit game, the gaming component functions as a stronger signal for behavioral shaping compared to the media stated above.
EMG biofeedback is specifically for muscle control issues.
As we mentioned in the campaign page, it is common that the key muscles in different joints are weak or being poorly controlled due to modern ergonomic settings, among people with muscle or joint pain. With biofeedback, people gain better awareness over those key muscles and eventually gain better control or stronger control over them. As a result, those muscle and joint pain solved.
On the other hand, biofeedback is also used to relax the muscle by giving negative feedback, a typical application is tension headache caused by neck muscle tightness.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
Can this replace Physical Therapy?
No. Although FlexR is a great adjunct to home exercise, RehabFit cannot replace highly skilled physical therapy diagnosis, clinical decision makings and interventions. FlexR can help as a fun and engaging therapeutic home adjunct for addressing common mild musculoskeletal conditions. In addition, RehabFit can track the progress and send it to your supervising professions. If you have more-than-minor musculoskeletal conditions, we would strongly recommend for users to seek professional medical attention, such as that given by a physical therapy or physician.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
Is there any clinical evidence?
There are plenty of EMG biofeedback studies that have been proved to be efficient for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. If the user wants to learn more, search “EMG biofeedback” or “electromyogram biofeedback” in the Google Scholar searching engine to learn more.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
Does VR have any application in the clinical setting?
Yes, plenty. For example, search “virtual reality stroke rehabilitation” in Google Scholar, you will see a lot of studies. This is just only one type of disease it addresses.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
I have a bulging disc / severe low back pain, can FlexR help me?
Yes! One of the most common causes of low back pain is core muscle weakness. FlexR with RehabFit app can help address the muscles weakness in fun and engaging way, and make sure users really activating those subtle muscles. Strengthening core muscles and stabilizing the spine can usually help relieve the symptoms of herniated disc. We strongly recommend seeking professional health care profession such as physical therapists and physicians to have a comprehensive diagnosis first. When refer FlexR with RehabFit to health professions, we recommend users them it is “a new EMG biofeedback which helps to selectively strengthen the target muscles” for better communication.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
When will FlexR be delivered?
April, 2017
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
What if the delivery is delayed?
We will try our best to avoid any delays, but if it happens, we will notify our backers as soon as possible. We want to keep everything transparent.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
Can backers track the shipping?
Yes! We will provide the tracking number and website.
Last updated: December 13, 2016 11:03
Is it legit?
Yes! We’ve been asked this question plenty of times. FlexR uses the EMG biofeedback technology to achieve all the awesome features we’ve mentioned on our campaign page. In fact, it is not new technology. EMG biofeedback has been widely used in the medical industry for years, but we channeled it to a new application. We have now integrated a patented gamification component to reach the highest potential of this technology. Muscle activation is controlled by motor nerves, in which electric signals are transmitted from your brain to the target muscle. FlexR uses a brilliant algorithm to track these signals and filter the noise. By contracting and relaxing different muscles, a human is able to export a variety of movements. If you would like to learn more about the technology, search “EMG biofeedback” on Youtube, you will find some videos. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 1:51 pm EST
Why does it work?
Muscle activation is controlled by motor nerves in your body, in which electric signals are transmitted from your brain to the target muscle. FlexR uses a brilliant algorithm to track these signals and filter the noise. RehabFit, the first App of FlexR, helps users perform exercises correctly and have fun at the same time. Similar body movements may be produced by different sets of muscle activation. When your purpose is to strengthen a specific muscle for rehab or simply for a bodybuilding purpose, the activation of a target muscle becomes critical. That is why fitness trainers are usually quite demanding on the “exercise form”. When you correctly activate a certain muscle, the nerve innervated to that muscles conveys electric signals. FlexR detects those signals and displays it in a meaningful pattern on your cellphone. What is truly exciting about our device is that you can actually play games with these signals to exercise your muscles and even shape your behavior. If you have experienced planking for a minute, you know it could be one of the most miserable minutes of your life. But with our device you can easily turn it into a 15-20 minute workout without any effort since you will be having fun playing on your smartphone! We are taking advantage of this nature to help those who have difficulty exercising routinely and maintaining high-quality workouts. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 1:51 pm EST
What are the advantages of backing us on Kickstarter?
First and foremost, you will get a HUGE limited early bird discount. Even if you miss the early bird discount, you can still purchase the “special price” on Kickstarter during our campaign. Second, you will join our community. The Kickstarter community is great because it is very interactive. Fans sometimes bring great and achievable ideas or suggestions that eventually become our stretch goals (https://www.kickstarter.com/help/search?utf8=%E2%9C%93&term=what+are+stretch+goals%3F). We also keep updating the latest progress of R&D, manufacturing and delivery. Our Kickstarter backers are our most important asset - we will be open to any suggestions or feedback, even harsh ones. Our goal is to deliver the product beyond your expectation and project to a greater population. Last updated: Thu, Dec 15 2016 2:30 pm EST
Why are you guys so obsessed with muscles?
Besides the fact that the inventor is a physical therapist, who focuses on neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions, he believes that the muscular system is significantly important since it is probably the only body system that does affect the external environment. Think about it, we use the upper extremity to bring food to mouth, use jaw muscles to chew the food, and swallow the food; Waving your hand or winking your eyes (Orbicularis Oculi muscle) to express emotion; Speaking out your opinion to influence others (articulator muscles) - these are all muscles. Our team’s vision is to optimize the lightening-fast interaction between you and technology, and this is just the first step. Last updated: Thu, Dec 15 2016 2:28 pm EST
Is it safe?
FlexR does not deliver any energy to your body - it detects even the slightest muscle activity. The battery in FlexR is only 3.7 V and has passed Battery Safety Testing - IEC 62133 Standard, which guarantees no risk of battery leakage. The only risk we can think of is muscle cramping or second-day muscle soreness from over-exercising. It happened to a few of our beta testers. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 1:56 pm EST
Is it a TENS unit or electric stimulation?
Although they look similar to each other, FlexR is not an E-stim or TENS unit. FlexR does not deliver any energy to your body - it only detects your muscle activity. FlexR sends the muscle activation signal to your cell phone, which then gives you feedback in order to achieve a variety of purposes including entertainment or gaining greater awareness etc. You won’t feel pricking in your body like when using TENS units. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 1:56 pm EST
How do I use FlexR with the RehabFit App?
Using FlexR with RehabFit App is easy. Download the RehabFit App, choose whatever goal you would like to achieve. Then simply follow the instruction given by the App to apply the enclosed electrodes to your muscle. Start game App, go and flex! Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
Are the electrodes (the pads) bundled with the FlexR device? How long does the bundled package last? Where can I restock on electrodes?
Yes. There are two packs of 6 reusable electrodes bundled with the device. We have tested a LOT of electrodes and we think the one we are delivering is the best. You will use 3 electrodes each time, but they are reusable. To extend the life of the electrodes, wipe away the dust over the target skin before use. Stick the electrodes back to the plastic film and store it in a sealed pack away from sun shine. Each reusable electrodes can be used up to 8 - 10 times, that gives about 32 - 40 uses. If you use FlexR every day (which we don’t recommend because we don’t want you to over-exercise), it can cover over a month. Although quality may vary, the electrodes are nothing too different than ECG electrodes (those pads for measuring heart function). We do provide our own electrodes which we believe are the best on the market. The cost is less than $5 per pack (6 electrodes), TBC. Otherwise, you can get it from anywhere including the local/online medical supply stores or Amazon.com. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 1:56 pm EST
Will there be other applications available that is compatible to FlexR?
Yes. We are planning to introduce other applications (not necessarily a health and fitness focused application) compatible to FlexR. So you are not buying one application, but you are buying a gadget with unlimited potential! Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 1:56 pm EST
Will there be other games and entertainment available in RehabFit in the future?
Yes. We are planning to add more exciting game themes to RehabFit. We a planning to come out with a music game that users can rock into music while exercising. We are also actively seeking a third-party game studio’s collaboration to merge the FlexR concept to suitable viral games. We always want to get the best out of FlexR! It could be one stretch goal, exciting? Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 1:56 pm EST
What are you guys doing between now and delivery day?
We have already conducted a beta-test before we launched on Kickstarter. We are going to fine-tune FlexR and RehabFit based on the valuable feedback we receive. We are currently working on the UI to make it more user-friendly, straight-forward and appealing. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 1:56 pm EST
What do I need to know about open source?
Although we will try our best to make the platform as user-friendly as possible, some basic human anatomy knowledge, especially muscles, is always helpful. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 1:56 pm EST
Is the App free?
Yes! Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
How do I get the App?
It will be available in early 2017 on iOS App Store and Android Google Play Store. It is compatible to all popular smartphone and tablets, such as Apple iPhone, iPad; Samsung Galaxy; Google Pixel; Huawei Mate; Android tablets etc. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
What about Windows Phone?
Unfortunately, no :( Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
What languages are available in the RehabFit App?
English & Chinese. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
How is the game played?
The first game theme: Endless Tower: When you flex the target muscle that the FlexR is attached to, the avatar in the game will jump accordingly. Flex your muscle or perform an exercise movement at the right moment to dodge all the traps while the avatar keeps running forward. Some traps require the user to tap the specific object in the screen to challenge their multi-task ability. In vertical mode, the user must contract and completely relax the muscle rhythmically to get the avatar climb up. The user also needs to tap the screen to avoid some traps. (See! You just quickly worked out 10 min without noticing it.) Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
Why would I want to play it?
Besides entertainment purpose, you will gain health benefits while having fun! Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
What muscles can I apply FlexR to?
ALL surface muscles. For example, deep abs, back postural muscles, hip muscles, thigh muscles around knee joint etc. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
What is EMG biofeedback, how does it help pain?
Biofeedback is the process of gaining greater awareness of physiological functions by using instant sound, visual signal, or tactile signal with a purpose of being able to control them at will. In the RehabFit game, the gaming component functions as a stronger signal for behavioral shaping compared to the media stated above. EMG biofeedback is specifically for muscle control issues. As we mentioned in the campaign page, it is common that the key muscles in different joints are weak or being poorly controlled due to modern ergonomic settings, among people with muscle or joint pain. With biofeedback, people gain better awareness over those key muscles and eventually gain better control or stronger control over them. As a result, those muscle and joint pain solved. On the other hand, biofeedback is also used to relax the muscle by giving negative feedback, a typical application is tension headache caused by neck muscle tightness. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
Can this replace Physical Therapy?
No. Although FlexR is a great adjunct to home exercise, RehabFit cannot replace highly skilled physical therapy diagnosis, clinical decision makings and interventions. FlexR can help as a fun and engaging therapeutic home adjunct for addressing common mild musculoskeletal conditions. In addition, RehabFit can track the progress and send it to your supervising professions. If you have more-than-minor musculoskeletal conditions, we would strongly recommend for users to seek professional medical attention, such as that given by a physical therapy or physician. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
Is there any clinical evidence?
There are plenty of EMG biofeedback studies that have been proved to be efficient for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. If the user wants to learn more, search “EMG biofeedback” or “electromyogram biofeedback” in the Google Scholar searching engine to learn more. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
Does VR have any application in the clinical setting?
Yes, plenty. For example, search “virtual reality stroke rehabilitation” in Google Scholar, you will see a lot of studies. This is just only one type of disease it addresses. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
I have a bulging disc / severe low back pain, can FlexR help me?
Yes! One of the most common causes of low back pain is core muscle weakness. FlexR with RehabFit app can help address the muscles weakness in fun and engaging way, and make sure users really activating those subtle muscles. Strengthening core muscles and stabilizing the spine can usually help relieve the symptoms of herniated disc. We strongly recommend seeking professional health care profession such as physical therapists and physicians to have a comprehensive diagnosis first. When refer FlexR with RehabFit to health professions, we recommend users them it is “a new EMG biofeedback which helps to selectively strengthen the target muscles” for better communication. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
When will FlexR be delivered?
April, 2017 Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
What if the delivery is delayed?
We will try our best to avoid any delays, but if it happens, we will notify our backers as soon as possible. We want to keep everything transparent. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
Can backers track the shipping?
Yes! We will provide the tracking number and website. Last updated: Tue, Dec 13 2016 2:03 pm EST
What is BackerKit?
BackerKit is a service that crowdfunded project creators use to keep track of hundreds to tens of thousands of backers—from shipping details, pledge levels, preferences and quantities, whether they have paid or had their card declined, special notes, and everything in between!
The BackerKit software and support team is independent from the campaign’s project team—BackerKit does not handle the actual reward shipping. For more information about the preparation or delivery status of your rewards, please check the project's updates page.
How does BackerKit work?
After the campaign ends, the project creator will send you an email with a unique link to your survey. You can check out a walkthrough of the process here.
I never received my invitation. How do I complete the survey?
The most common reasons for not receiving a survey email is that you may be checking an email inbox different from the email address you used to sign up with Kickstarter, Indiegogo or Tilt Pro account, or it may be caught in your spam filter.
Confirm that the email address you are searching matches the email address tied to your Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or Tilt Pro account. If that doesn’t work, then try checking your spam, junk or promotions folders. You can also search for "backerkit” in your inbox.
To resend the survey to yourself, visit the project page and input the email address associated with your Kickstarter, Indiegogo or Tilt Pro account.
How do I update my shipping address?
BackerKit allows you to update your shipping address until the shipping addresses are locked by the project creator. To update your address, go back to your BackerKit survey by inputting your email here.
When will my order be shipped, charged or locked?
That is handled directly by the project creator. BackerKit functions independently of the project itself, so we do not have control of their physical shipping timeline. If you want to check on the project’s status, we recommend reading over the project's updates page.
I completed the survey, but haven't received my rewards yet. When will they arrive?
As BackerKit does not actually handle any rewards or shipping, the best way to stay updated on the shipping timeline would be to check out the project's updates page.