The Perch Blog

Velocity-based training is flexing its strength. For context: Tried and true, for decades, strength and conditioning revolved around percentage-based training — where intensity and load are prescribed relative to an athlete’s one-rep maximum weight. Now, new research suggests that velocity-based training (VBT)—focused on measuring and improving...

A new technology is coming to the weight room. Founded by three MIT athletes, Cambridge-based Perch uses computer vision and machine learning algorithms to monitor an athlete’s movements during exercise in the gym. The startup recently raised a $4 million round from investors like Bradley Bloom, Ledgeways Ventures LLC and Byron Jones...

Weightlifting camera and data company Perch has raised a new $4 million funding round that includes investment from Miami Dolphins cornerback Byron Jones. Perch makes a 3D camera that straps to weight racks to track an athlete’s movements as they lift, including calculating sets, reps, velocity, and power output via Perch’s connected app.

Dubbed as an “invaluable addition” to their training program by the Orlando Magic, weight training platform Perch has pulled in a number of new users in NFL and NCAA football and basketball teams. Among those teams include the New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers, Baylor Bears (Men’s Basketball), and North Carolina Tar Heels.

VBT can be used in tracking fatigue to understand athlete performance on a daily basis. When used consistently, it can be a great roadmap!

Tech entrepreneurs are disrupting the fitness industry in a number of ways. One of the most prominent is the production of devices that can measure steps and other vitals. But these are often geared more toward cardio exercises. Now, Perch offers something similar for strength training exercises. Read about this new innovation in this week’s...

VBT can help improve velocity, and power outputs in the weight room, but what about VBT and on field performance where it matters most?

Movement quality is incredibly important in athletic development and return to play protocols. VBT and movement quality can go hand in hand!

Testing 1RMs is a time consuming process. Using VBT and a simple calculation, you can understand predictions for athlete 1RM during sessions

Power is arguably the best single measure of an athlete’s overall performance. Learn about developing power optimally using VBT here!

Glenbrook South is one of a few high schools in the country utilizing equipment adopted by the NFL, MLB, NHL, MLS, NBA and NCAA. The GBS athletic program installed some new state-of-the-art technology in the weight room last summer. With a fall sports season about to conclude, Perch has been paying off.

Eccentric training can help keep athletes healthy and efficiently train them too! Using VBT technology to monitor eccentric training can help