User Guide
Metric uses a unique computer vision system and rep-detection algorithm to analyse camera footage from a mobile device.
As with any measurement tool, you need to follow some simple rules to get the best results! Read the instructions below and you will be lifting with VBT in no time.
Metric is available for free on iOS and iPad OS. Devices must be running iOS 14.7 or iPad OS 14.7 and later. Metric has its own camera settings so no need to adjust your phones default settings.
✅ iPhone X/XR/XS and all models after this (first released late 2017) - front and rear facing cameras
✅ iPhone 7, 7S, 8, SE (2nd gen, 2020) - rear camera only
❌ iPhone 6, 6S, SE (1st gen, 2016) and phones older than this
✅ iPad - 9th edition and later (first released late 2021) - front camera only
✅ iPad Air - 4th edition and later (first released late 2020) - rear camera only
✅ iPad Pro - 2017 - 2019 models - rear camera only
✅ iPad Pro - 11" first gen / 12.9"third gen and later (first released late 2020) - front and rear camera
✅ iPad Mini - 6th edition and later (first released late 2021) - rear camera only
Metric measures velocity by finding and tracking standard sized, regulation weight plates of 450mm (17inch) diameter.
✅ Bumper plates, training plates, calibrated powerlifting plates (20kg/45lb and above) and old-school iron plates of 450mm diameter all work.
❌ Plates with non-circular shapes will not be recognised by the algorithm.
❌ Plates that are not 450mm in diameter will give incorrect results.
Metric precisely measure the change in position of the barbell. The recording device must be stationary throughout the set to get a valid result.
Keep the phone in vertical orientation while recording.
✅ Use a mini portable tripod, or rest the phone against a dumbbell, water bottle or similar stable object.
❌ Do not have someone hand-hold your phone when recording!
Metric needs to have a good view of your weight plate throughout the set. Position the phone between 0º and 25º of the end of the barbell.
For squats and overhead lifts Metric works best when the camera is raised to be waist height or above. Use a tripod or position your camera on a bench or box.
✅ Position your phone within 20º from the end of the barbell.
❌ Do not place your phone front-on or at an extreme angle.
Computer vision works roughly like human vision: Metric needs to be able to "see" the weight plates in order to track your lifts with precision.
The more clearly it can see the weight plate in the video, the better the data from Metric will be.
Follow the tips below to ensure you get the best results.
Placing the phone between 0º - 25º from the end of the bar is perfect.
Recording with the phone too close, too far away, or cutting off a portion of the weight plates during a rep will lead to inconsistent data and missed reps.
For squats, bench press and overhead pressing, Metric works best when your phone is at waist height or above. For deadlifts and rowing, the phone can be anywhere from floor to hip height.
Avoid bright lights pointing into the lens creating lens-flare, and avoid lifting in dark environments where it is hard to see the weight plates.
Join the waitlist for early access!