Indoor climbing has become an increasingly popular sport, combining physical fitness with mental challenges. However, as participation grows, so does the necessity for enhanced safety measures. Spanish startup Lizcore is at the forefront of this evolution, leveraging technology to not only track climbing performance but also significantly improve the safety of climbers through innovative hardware and intelligent systems.
Founded by climbing instructor Edgar Casanovas Lorente and his co-founder Marçal Juan, Lizcore emerged with a vision to transform the indoor climbing experience. At a recent Mobile World Congress (MWC), Lizcore drew attention by unveiling an innovative solution—an NFC bracelet designed to track climbers’ movements and performance without the need for cumbersome devices. As simplistic as this concept may appear, it highlights a crucial intersection of technology and sport, elevating the climbing gym experience from mere physical activity to a comprehensive, gamified environment.
This shift is exemplified by Lizcore’s successful pre-seed funding round, which amassed €600,000 (approximately $630,000). Significant contributions came from renowned investors, business angels, and state support, indicating a strong belief in Lizcore’s potential to reshape indoor climbing dynamics. Their first commercial venture with Rubí’s Drac de Pedra climbing gym exemplifies early adoption, indicating that climbing facilities are ready for innovation that enhances both the climbing experience and safety protocols.
A critical concern in indoor climbing is the use of autobelays, devices that allow climbers to ascend without a designated belayer. These devices are beneficial, yet they come with inherent risks. Incidents related to improper use of autobelays—such as failing to clip into the safety carabiner—can lead to significant accidents and even fatalities. These risks necessitate continuous monitoring and credentialing processes to ensure climbers are proficient in using autobelays safely.
Yet, this requirement can burden gym staff, leading to inconsistencies in safety oversight. Here’s where Lizcore’s technology aims to fill the gap by introducing smart and efficient safety solutions.
Lizcore’s innovative system comprises digital credentialing embedded in the climbers’ NFC bracelets, which prevents access to autobelays for unqualified users. This revolutionary approach eliminates the need for constant staff monitoring, as the system will automatically verify each climber’s credential before allowing access to potentially dangerous equipment. The elegance of this solution lies not only in its efficiency but also in its ability to minimize legal liabilities for climbing gyms.
Additionally, Lizcore is channeling the power of artificial intelligence to develop a comprehensive safety monitoring system. High-resolution cameras linked with their technology will analyze climbers during their ascent. By utilizing machine learning algorithms, the system can ascertain whether climbers are appropriately secured to the autobelay apparatus. If it detects a climber who is uncliped, the technology can trigger an alarm, intervening before any potential accidents occur.
With the growing emphasis on safety and performance tracking, Lizcore is broadening its appeal among gyms by aiming for compatibility with various autobelay devices, including advanced retractable rope systems. The dual focus on safety and interactive performance showcases the larger trend in sports technology, where elevating the participant’s experience goes hand-in-hand with safeguarding their well-being.
While the road ahead for Lizcore includes challenges—particularly hardware reliability and perfecting their AI detection mechanisms—their commitment to rapidly iterate and refine their technology demonstrates a promising future. As Edgar Casanovas Lorente aptly states, “hardware is hard,” a testament to the complexities inherent in such innovations. Yet with continued investment and their growing momentum, Lizcore’s trajectory appears poised for success in the climbing space.
Ultimately, Lizcore’s innovations represent a broader movement towards gamification and enhanced participant engagement in sports, particularly indoor climbing. Their initiatives don’t merely aim to digitize the climbing experience; they reimagine the safety protocols that underpin it. As climbing continues to gain popularity, the integration of smart technology into climbing gyms will likely evolve into a new standard, making the sport not only more exciting but also exponentially safer for all involved.
Lizcore is not just a startup seeking to modernize the climbing gym experience; it is a company contributing to the safety and sustainability of a beloved sport. By marrying advanced technology and physical activity, they set a framework for future innovations that may redefine how we understand engagement and safety in sports.