Athletics

Olathe, Kan. – September 22, 2026 -- Garmin has rolled out a free software update for several smartwatches and cycling computers, adding fall detection, hands-free voice commands and new training tools.

Venu 4 owners now get automatic fall detection

The feature, new to the Venu 4 smartwatch, sends a message with the wearer's live location to preset emergency contacts if a hard fall is detected. Users can turn on monitoring all day or limit it to specific activities. The feature requires pairing with a smartphone.

Users can now control watches by saying 'Okay, Garmin'

The update brings hands-free voice control to the fēnix 8 series, Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, Venu 4 and vívoactive 6. Saying "Okay, Garmin" lets users start a timer, launch an activity or turn on a compatible watch's flashlight without touching a button. Saying "phone assistant" pulls up the virtual assistant on a paired smartphone.

Mt. Juliet – September 21, 2026 -- A new HelloNation article breaks down the differences between recreational and competitive gymnastics, offering parents a guide for choosing the right path for their children.

Recreational gymnastics prioritizes fun over performance

The article explains that recreational gymnastics programs center on enjoyment, movement, and steady progress rather than competitive outcomes. Classes typically include tumbling, balance work, and group activities, letting children build coordination and confidence at their own pace. This setting suits kids who want to stay active without competitive pressure while developing social skills through teamwork.

Katy, Texas – September 21, 2026 -- Academy Sports + Outdoors is running a monthlong "Brooks Month" promotion from September 21 through October 18, spotlighting the Brooks performance running brand across its stores and online.

Shoppers can choose from more than 50 Brooks footwear styles

The lineup includes popular models like the Glycerin 23, Ghost 18 and Adrenaline GTS 25, alongside new arrivals in footwear, apparel and accessories designed for runners at every level.

A Houston community run kicked off the celebration on September 19

Academy and Brooks partnered with Loose Lace Run Club to host "Roll Call," an event in Houston -- Academy's hometown -- where runners tried Brooks products and connected with the local running community.

Berlin – September 11, 2026 -- MERACH debuted its UltraWalk W60 Plus walking treadmill on the first day of IFA Berlin 2026, marking the product's European premiere. The device targets people who want to stay active during long hours of desk work or home-office setups. Buyers who order during the launch window get an €80 discount off the suggested retail price.

Pre-orders run through September 20 at an Early Bird price

The UltraWalk W60 Plus is available for pre-order in Europe until September 20, 2026, at €379.99, down from its manufacturer's suggested retail price of €459.99.

New York – September 16, 2026 -- ALLSWIFIT will launch its new carbon-plate running shoe, ActiveRise+, exclusively on the brand's website on September 15, 2026, targeting everyday runners rather than race-day specialists.

The shoe weighs approximately 6.35 to 6.56 ounces in a US Men's Size 9 and delivers more than 80% energy return, according to the company. ALLSWIFIT positions ActiveRise+ as a more approachable alternative to aggressive race-day carbon-plate shoes, aimed at runners doing tempo runs, interval sessions, and long-distance training.

Berlin – September 16, 2026 -- MERACH has unveiled its new flagship treadmill, the UltraWalk W60 Plus, at IFA Berlin 2026, targeting people who want to walk more during work-from-home hours. The treadmill is available for pre-order in Europe until September 20, 2026, at €379.99, discounted €80 from its €459.99 retail price.

The treadmill runs on a brushless motor rated for 15,000 hours

The UltraWalk W60 Plus features a brushless motor with 3.5 horsepower peak output and a built-in Hall sensor for consistent speed control, even at slower walking paces. MERACH says the motor is designed to run for up to 15,000 hours.

Noise levels stay at 53 decibels during operation

The company built the machine for quiet use in home offices, citing a 53-decibel noise level during operation. A convection cooling system with two vents helps dissipate heat, and the treadmill is rated for three hours of continuous use.