MUHAMMAD KHAIRUL IKHWAN BIN ABD KHALID SMK SUNGAI LAYAR
The Ecofit Dumbbell Arduino is an innovative and student-driven fitness tool developed to address the dual issues of declining health awareness among youth and the growing environmental crisis caused by non biodegradable waste. In an era where sedentary lifestyles are becoming the norm especially among teenagers the importance of encouraging consistent physical activity through engaging low cost and environmentally friendly tools cannot be overstated. This project integrates the principles of sustainability science and technology by combining recyclable materials such as plastic bottles and cement with Arduino based smart components to produce a functional interactive and eco conscious dumbbell. The problem this project aims to solve is twofold. Firstly traditional dumbbells do not provide real time feedback to users which limits motivation and progress tracking particularly for beginners or young users. Secondly the manufacture and disposal of fitness equipment often contributes to plastic pollution and environmental harm. The Ecofit Dumbbell Arduino addresses these concerns by integrating microcontroller technology sensors and data display functions with a structure made from recycled items. By using an Arduino Uno microcontroller a load cell sensor and an accelerometer the device can measure the number of repetitions the force exerted and the duration of exercise. This data is displayed on an LCD screen in real time and can also be transmitted to a computer or mobile device via Bluetooth for further analysis. The physical structure of the dumbbell uses reused plastic bottles filled with cement as weights and includes a comfortable grip using soft foam tubing and 3D printed parts. This not only reduces the overall cost of the device but also promotes responsible consumption by reusing household waste. The development of the Ecofit Dumbbell Arduino followed the Engineering Design Process or EDP which includes several phases such as problem identification research brainstorming design prototyping testing and improvement. During the initial stage students conducted a needs analysis to determine the gap in the availability of affordable smart fitness tools. They then brainstormed solutions that would combine physical fitness technology and environmental consciousness. After sketching their design and preparing wiring diagrams and source code the students built a prototype using the Arduino IDE and low cost sensors. The prototype was tested to ensure measurement accuracy durability and user friendliness. Based on feedback from peers and teachers several improvements were made such as optimizing the sensor placement adjusting the LCD contrast and refining the handle grip for better comfort. This process not only resulted in a more effective product but also provided students with hands on experience in engineering programming teamwork and critical thinking. The project offers significant contributions across multiple dimensions. Educationally it provides a multidisciplinary STEM learning experience by combining electronics coding product design and environmental science. Students not only learned about microcontroller systems and sensor integration but also developed soft skills such as communication creativity and problem solving. In terms of health impact the device promotes exercise habits and physical awareness among youth which is essential in combating lifestyle diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Environmentally the use of recycled materials helps reduce waste and raises awareness about sustainable practices among students and the community. Socially the project has been well received by peers teachers and parents indicating its potential for adoption in school based health and fitness programs. From a commercial perspective the Ecofit Dumbbell Arduino has strong potential for replication and market expansion. The open source nature of the Arduino platform and the use of widely available materials mean the device can be reproduced at a low cost and customized for different age groups and fitness levels. It could be marketed to schools fitness centers or individuals seeking affordable and smart exercise solutions. Furthermore this innovation supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs including Goal 3 Good Health and Well Being by encouraging regular physical activity Goal 4 Quality Education by enhancing STEM learning Goal 9 Industry Innovation and Infrastructure by introducing creative tech based solutions Goal 12 Responsible Consumption and Production by using recycled materials and Goal 13 Climate Action by promoting environmental awareness. The Ecofit Dumbbell Arduino can also be used as a teaching tool in science and physical education classes introducing students to practical applications of physics electronics and sustainability. It provides a tangible example of how innovation can emerge from community based efforts and youth involvement. The success of this project demonstrates that effective solutions to global challenges do not always require complex or expensive resources but rather creativity determination and collaboration. In the future the device could be further developed by integrating features such as wireless app connectivity gamified workout experiences or energy harvesting components. With proper support and collaboration from educators industry partners and policy makers the Ecofit Dumbbell Arduino could evolve into a commercially viable product that contributes to both individual well being and global sustainability goals. This project is a clear representation of how grassroots innovation led by students can result in meaningful impact and inspire a new generation of problem solvers and environmental stewards.