Jaha is a novel fitness project raising funds at Kickstarter. Touted as the “most affordable fitness band that motivates you,” it’s going for $29 and has already managed to surpass its funding goal of $25,000.
Jaha users will not only be able to compete with their friends, but can also stage group challenges.Even though Jaha is affordable, users will get all of the same capabilities they would expect from much pricier devices like Fitbit, Jawbone UP and Misfit Shine; though at the end of the day, it’s usually the software (rather than hardware) that makes all the difference.
According to folks behind Jaha, they want to make sure “everyone could have access to a fitness band without having to overpay.” So they came up with what they call the “Fitness for All” model.
Feature wise, Jaha owners will be able to find a running buddy or a workout partner, with the device tuning to smartphone’s GPS receiver to get location data on other users. After the run, you can access a tracking map of all the paths, roads, and locations your feet have tread.
Another important part of the Jaha experience comes in the form of challenges. Not only can you compete with your friends, but you can also stage group challenges. Or you can go head to head in a virtual fitness competition with celebrities and professional athletes.
Initially, the Jaha app will support iOS devices with Android version coming in March 2015.Finally, there are all of the standard features you would get in any social network, allowing you to keep up with latest news and achievements from other runners, compare stats and leaderboards, IM other users, and get notifications on your progress (or their lack of).
Jaha device aside, the team has also created an open protocol so that other band manufacturers can utilize this app as well. This, the Kickstarter page says, means the Jaha community will grow faster and stronger with more users, challenges and motivation.
Initially, the Jaha app will support iOS devices with Android version coming in March 2015. In the meantime, there’s an option to sync using the USB Dongle to a Mac or PC.