MoveFit

During my time as an Industrial Product Design student, I developed the UVO, a versatile fitness device aimed at promoting physical activity among elderly individuals. The project was commissioned by Fitnesstuin and was driven by the growing need to support the elderly in maintaining their physical health, especially in the face of aging-related physical and cognitive decline.

The goal was to create a fitness device that could be easily integrated into the daily routines of users, focusing on key muscle groups while being accessible and safe for both fit and less fit seniors. Through extensive research, interviews, and user persona development, I ensured that the design catered to the specific needs of seniors, particularly those facing mobility challenges or living in care facilities.

The result was the UVO: a compact, mobile device that can be used both indoors and outdoors, offering adjustable resistance for various exercises, including those for the arms, shoulders, and torso. The device encourages collaborative use, which addresses the social isolation often experienced by elderly individuals, while also providing an option for solo use.

My design process was rooted in functionality and ergonomics. The UVO’s design featured a ball-and-disc mechanism that simultaneously engages the upper body muscles and promotes balance. I ensured the product was intuitive to use, requiring minimal explanation, and designed it with attractive, soft-touch materials to make it approachable and safe. I was particularly focused on creating a product that felt empowering rather than clinical, emphasizing dignity and independence in the user experience.

In addition to its functional design, the UVO was produced with cost-effective manufacturing techniques, such as injection molding, ensuring that the product could be both affordable and durable. I worked closely with production experts to ensure the materials chosen—such as ABS plastic—would withstand the physical demands and UV exposure typical of both indoor and outdoor environments.

Ultimately, the UVO was interesting not only for elderly care facilities but also for a wider market, including professionals with sedentary office lifestyles. The project provided me with valuable insights into user-centered design, balancing innovation with practicality, and addressing real-world needs through thoughtful product development.