![Lululemon Om Finder App](/sites/default/files/DefaultRiver_375x255.jpg)
What’s the Deal?
What’s in a name? A lot, in Om Finder’s case. The name pretty much explains what this Lulu-backed technology brings to the table. The free app is designed to help iOS users locate yoga studios, classes, and instructors in Canada, the U.S., and around the world. Plus, yogis on-the-go can invite friends to a class, get directions (especially useful when in an unfamiliar place), schedule reminders, and read class-goers’ tips before choosing a place to downward-dog.
Why It Matters
Smartphone apps that find fitness classes are nothing new. From Sportaneous to GoRecess, plenty of apps (and websites like Classtivity and, more broadly, Yelp) can help locate classes and facilities for gym rats, runners, and yogis alike. But Lululemon’s not trying to reinvent the wheel — they’re just putting their own stamp on it, even if the data behind the app isn’t original.
(Also Check Out: The 64 Best Health and Fitness Apps of 2013)
Om Finder gets its info from MindBody, a company that’s been facilitating studio management and scheduling for fitness companies since 1998. So why is Lululemon’s not-particularly-fancy app stirring up so much interest? Chalk it up to a killer marketing team, a well-developed sense of ownership in the yoga space, and probably a wish to move beyond the recent see-through pants fiasco.
Since its inception, the fitness apparel company has established itself as the go-to brand for all things yoga — from headbands to inspirational posters and videos. Lululemon’s first step (or should we say parsvottanasana?) into tech products is intriguing, but not necessarily surprising. By developing an app, the powerhouse company has found a new way to connect Lulu fans to each other and make the brand even more om-nipresent throughout the yoga world. We’re just curious about which elements of the yoga community Lululemon will conquer next.
Would you download Lululemon’s new app to locate yoga classes? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tweet the author @SophBreene.
Photo and video: Lululemon Athletica