FIRSTBEAT BODYGUARD 2

FFT trials a lifestyle monitor designed to keep you fit and carefree around the clock

What is it? FFT is knackered after a long, gruelling season, so we decided it was time to take our recovery more seriously. The Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 is a lightweight heartbeat and movement recording device, which works around the clock to monitor your body’s performance. It can be used during exercise, leisure activities and sleep to make sure you are enjoying ample rest. How does it work? The device is attached under your left collarbone and right rib cage. Worn for a three-day period (except when you’re in the shower), it can record heart rate, heart rate variability (the time between each beat), sleep quality, stress levels and daily actions. Your data can then be analysed using Firstbeat’s software. Who uses it?

Eight-hundred elite teams from a range of sports now use Firstbeat. In fact, 25 per cent of sides who participated in the 2017-18 Champions League, including Manchester City and Man United, have introduced the technology to evaluate players. If it’s good enough for Pep and Jose, it’s good enough for us. Why are they using it?

If a player isn’t resting enough between training and matches, their chances of getting injured are vastly increased. The Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 reveals possible issues that can hamper recovery, such as stress, erratic sleep or overtraining, so they can pinpoint problems faster. How much is it?

At £289 it’s not cheap, and costs about the same as a games console. But this will offer you an accurate snapshot of your health and how you deal with the daily stresses of life and football.