During the first group match of the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup between India and Ireland, Indian players were seen wearing a new fitness band. This fitness band, from the US-based company WHOOP, is used by players to track their fitness and recovery, rather than for sponsorship.
Founded by Will Ahmed in 2015, WHOOP launched its 4.0 version in 2021 and entered into a partnership with OpenAI, subsequently introducing WHOOP Coach. The brand is popular among global athletes beyond cricket, including basketball star LeBron James, swimmer Michael Phelps, and golfers Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods.
Key Features of WHOOP
- Fitness Tracking: Provides real-time stress scores and recovery-focused tracking.
- Performance Data: Helps athletes improve performance and understand their body’s capabilities.
- Membership Program: Combines fitness tracking with access to a data-driven coaching platform.
WHOOP recently announced its availability in India, offering annual and 24-month membership options priced at Rs 19,598 and Rs 33,308.52, respectively. The membership includes a free WHOOP 4.0 with a lifetime warranty and access to the WHOOP app.
On May 13, 2024, WHOOP welcomed legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo as an investor and global brand ambassador. Will Ahmed, CEO of WHOOP, stated, “Cristiano has been a WHOOP member for a number of years, and we’re proud to strengthen our relationship further through this partnership. Cristiano’s relentless pursuit of improvement and perfection mirrors our mission. We are looking forward to collaborating with him to share unprecedented insights into his training and recovery methods. Together, we’ll unveil exciting product collaborations to enhance the WHOOP experience for our members.”
WHOOP’s Global Expansion
WHOOP has expanded into new regions, now operating in five of the six GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain, as well as Hong Kong, Israel, Korea, and Taiwan. Ronaldo joins a prestigious group of global ambassador investors, including Patrick Mahomes, Michael Phelps, Eli Manning, and Rory McIlroy.
| Membership Options | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Membership | Rs 19,598 |
| 24-Month Membership | Rs 33,308.52 |
WHOOP’s integration into the world of cricket signifies a broader acceptance and use of advanced fitness tracking technologies among athletes, aiming to enhance their performance and overall well-being.