Push - Detailed Review

Sports Tools

Push - Detailed Review Contents
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    Push - Product Overview



    Introduction to PUSH in Sports Tools

    PUSH is an innovative sports technology solution that focuses on enhancing athletic performance, particularly in the weight room, through its AI-driven and data-centric approach.



    Primary Function

    The primary function of PUSH is to measure and analyze athletic performance using Velocity-Based Training (VBT). This method involves tracking the velocity of weight room lifts to provide real-time feedback and data-driven insights. This helps coaches and athletes optimize training, maximize results, and reduce the risk of injury.



    Target Audience

    PUSH is designed for a wide range of users, including professional, collegiate, and Olympic athletes, as well as elite military teams and amateur athletes. It supports coaches and athletes across various sports and levels, from professional to weekend warriors, and even those in physiotherapy and recovery.



    Key Features



    PUSH Band

    A wearable accelerometer that is typically worn on the forearm. It provides real-time feedback on the velocity of weight room lifts, measuring metrics such as speed, power, force, and acceleration.



    Training Management System

    The PUSH Portal allows coaches to plan full workout programs and track athlete performance. This system automates data collection and analysis, eliminating the need for manual tracking on paper or spreadsheets.



    App Interface

    The PUSH app gives athletes access to their workout programs, both in the weight room and remotely. It offers an intuitive interface to view workout history, performance analytics, and other essential data.



    Velocity-Based Training (VBT)

    This training method is proven to show larger strength gains with lower training volume, minimizing fatigue while maximizing performance.

    By integrating these features, PUSH provides a comprehensive solution for coaches and athletes to plan, track, assess, and improve athletic performance in real-time.

    Push - User Interface and Experience



    The PUSH Portal

    The PUSH Portal, used in the sports tools and athletic training sector, offers a user-friendly and highly functional interface that caters to both athletes and coaches.



    User Interface

    The interface of the PUSH Portal is structured to provide a clear and comprehensive overview of athlete and team performance. Here are some key features:



    Home Page

    The homepage is divided into two main tabs: Team Performance and Team Calendar. This allows coaches to quickly view the workload and schedules of their athletes or teams over a specified period.



    Team Performance

    This section includes detailed graphs and reports that can be configured to show daily and weekly breakdowns of workload, either in traditional volume-load calculations or total work, which incorporates velocity outputs. Coaches can also filter exercise and output metrics using dropdown menus to generate custom feedback graphs.



    Athlete Profiles

    Each athlete has a detailed profile that includes past, present, and future schedules, as well as performance output history. All training and testing data can be exported to CSV files if needed.



    Workout Builder

    Coaches can create and schedule workout templates using the Builder tool, which includes resistance training, warm-ups, cool-downs, and speed-agility-conditioning. These templates are fully customizable with detailed prescriptions such as loading, velocity work zones, rest times, and coaching cues.



    Exercise Database

    The Portal includes a comprehensive exercise library with over 400 exercises, along with the ability to create custom exercises. Each exercise can be accompanied by YouTube videos, coaching cues, and instructions, ensuring athletes have clear guidance on how to perform each exercise.



    Leaderboard

    The Leaderboard feature provides real-time feedback and fosters competition within the team by displaying performance metrics on a big screen. This helps in driving athlete engagement and provides coaches with a high-level overview of training outputs.



    Ease of Use

    The PUSH Portal is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for both coaches and athletes to use:



    Clear Navigation

    The interface is intuitive, with clear tabs and sections that make it easy to find and access the necessary information.



    Customizable Reports

    Coaches can configure reports to suit their needs, making it simple to track and analyze performance data.



    Guided Workouts

    Athletes can follow scheduled workout templates directly through the PUSH VBT Mobile App, which guides them through each set with detailed instructions and coaching cues.



    Overall User Experience

    The overall user experience of the PUSH Portal is highly engaging and effective:



    Real-Time Feedback

    The Leaderboard and real-time performance tracking features keep athletes motivated and competitive.



    Personalized Training

    Coaches can create customized training programs that adapt to different training levels, ensuring each athlete receives tailored training.



    Efficient Management

    The Portal eliminates the need for manual tracking and printing of training cards, streamlining the coaching process and saving time.

    In summary, the PUSH Portal offers a well-structured, easy-to-use interface that enhances both the coaching and athlete experience by providing comprehensive performance tracking, customizable training programs, and real-time feedback.

    Push - Key Features and Functionality



    The PUSH Band and Its Features

    The PUSH product, particularly the PUSH Band and its associated app, offers several key features that leverage AI and advanced technology to enhance athletic performance and training. Here are the main features and how they work:



    Velocity Based Training (VBT)

    The PUSH Band, worn on the forearm, provides real-time feedback on the velocity of weight room lifts. This data helps athletes and coaches validate their coaching instincts and optimize training sessions. The band tracks the speed of lifts, which is crucial for assessing strength, power, and technique.



    Real-Time Feedback and Data Capture

    The PUSH Band automatically captures and records all exercise data, eliminating the need for manual tracking on paper or spreadsheets. This data is communicated through the intuitive app interface, providing immediate feedback on performance. This real-time data helps athletes adjust their techniques and coaches make informed decisions.



    Performance Analytics

    The app offers comprehensive performance analytics, including workout history and detailed performance metrics. Athletes and coaches can track progress over time, identify strengths and weaknesses, and make data-driven decisions to improve training programs.



    Free Movement Feature

    The Free Movement feature allows the PUSH Band to measure explosive dynamic movements such as Med Ball Throws, baseball pitches, or sled pushes. By taking a 5-second video of the athlete performing the movement, the band tracks the velocity and displays it on a separate screen. This feature helps athletes and coaches assess technique and track improvements over time.



    Max Testing System

    PUSH simplifies the process of max testing by instructing athletes to perform 5 sets of 3 reps as explosively as possible with a weight based on their predicted max. The system factors in movement speed over the five sets and generates the one-rep max for that lift, providing a safer and more accurate way to test maximum strength.



    Injury Prevention

    AI integration helps in injury prevention by analyzing movement patterns and identifying potential injury risks before they occur. This early warning system allows coaches to design rehabilitation programs specific to each athlete’s recovery needs.



    Customized Training Programs

    AI tools within the PUSH system help design and implement personalized training regimens based on individual athlete data. This includes suggesting customized drills, exercise plans, and schedules to maximize output and improve overall performance.



    Video Analysis and Coaching Cues

    The app uses video analysis to provide coaching cues and motivate athletes. For example, a coach can advise a baseball player to focus on driving through their hips during a swing, and the player can see how this cue improves their swing speed through the velocity feedback provided by the PUSH Band.



    Progress Tracking

    Athletes and coaches can use the PUSH system to measure baseline performance at the beginning of a strength training or skill development program and retest at the conclusion to measure improvement. This helps in assessing progress over time and adjusting training programs accordingly.

    These features collectively enhance athletic performance by providing precise, data-driven insights, reducing the risk of injury, and optimizing training strategies through AI-driven analytics.

    Push - Performance and Accuracy



    Performance

    PUSH is highly effective in measuring movement speed across over 250 exercises, utilizing custom algorithms to accurately assess the speed of each movement. This is achieved through an armband equipped with an accelerometer and gyroscope, which tracks the velocity of lifts and other exercises such as the Deadlift, Bench Press, and Back Squat. The system promotes more productive workouts by providing real-time feedback on lift speed, allowing athletes to compete with themselves and improve their explosive power. For instance, athletes can adjust the weight based on their velocity readings to optimize their training for building power or addressing fatigue. PUSH also offers a “Free Movement” feature, which allows coaches and athletes to measure and analyze sport-specific movements like Med Ball Throws or baseball pitches. This feature includes video recording and analysis to assess technique and its impact on velocity.

    Accuracy

    The accuracy of PUSH is generally high, particularly for exercises that involve rotation of the device throughout the movement. Studies have shown that for such exercises, the mean absolute percent error and mean percent error are significantly lower, averaging around 3.5% and -1.6%, respectively. However, for exercises that do not involve rotation, the accuracy can be lower, with a higher mean absolute percent error (around 31.0%) and mean percent error (around -29.9%). This indicates that the device’s accuracy is dependent on the type of movement and the speed at which it is performed.

    Limitations and Areas for Improvement

    One of the main limitations is the variability in accuracy based on the type of exercise. Exercises without rotational movement may not be tracked as accurately, which could affect the reliability of the data for those specific movements. Additionally, while PUSH simplifies max testing by using movement speed over multiple sets to predict one-rep max, this method may still have some margin of error compared to traditional max testing methods. However, it is noted that this approach is safer and based on actual performance data rather than universal conversions.

    Engagement and Practical Use

    The real-time feedback and competitive aspect of PUSH significantly enhance athlete engagement and motivation. Athletes can see immediate results and strive to improve their velocity, making the training experience more purposeful and impactful. In summary, PUSH offers a highly effective and accurate tool for velocity-based training, especially for exercises involving rotational movements. While there are some limitations in accuracy for certain types of exercises, the overall benefits in terms of improved training quality and athlete engagement are substantial.

    Push - Pricing and Plans



    Plans and Pricing

    PushPress offers several plans to cater to different business needs:

    Free Plan

    • Cost: $0 per month
    • Transaction Fees: 2.19% $0.30 per transaction
    • Features: Ideal for smaller gyms or independent fitness professionals. Includes basic features like member management, automated billing, and reporting, but with higher transaction fees.


    Pro Plan

    • Cost: $159 per month
    • Transaction Fees: As low as 0.79% $0.30 per transaction for certain types of payments
    • Features: Includes all the features from the Free Plan, plus additional tools for enhanced gym management, such as advanced member and billing management, scheduling, and marketing tools.


    Max Plan

    • Cost: $229 per month
    • Transaction Fees: Not explicitly disclosed, but likely includes additional fees for certain add-ons
    • Features: Designed for larger gyms or multi-location facilities, offering more robust features than the Pro Plan. This includes advanced tools for scaling and optimizing business operations.


    Additional Features and Add-Ons

    • Workout Tracking: PushPress offers a workout tracking system called “Train” which can be integrated into the main plans. This system helps in tracking workouts, creating custom programs, and engaging with members. The pricing for Train starts at $29/month and varies based on the number of members.
    • Customization and Branding: Higher-tier plans include features for custom branding, online store integration, and advanced marketing tools.


    Free Options and Trials

    • Free Plan: Available with no monthly fee, but includes transaction fees.
    • Free Trial for Train: There is a 30-day free trial for the Train workout tracking system.


    Contract and Setup

    • No Contracts: PushPress does not require contracts for any of its plans.
    • Setup: The setup process is relatively quick, with migration of data taking less than a day. There are in-app guided tutorials and extensive help documentation to assist with the setup.
    By evaluating these plans and features, you can choose the one that best fits the needs and budget of your fitness business.

    Push - Integration and Compatibility



    Integration with Other Tools

    PushPress Train is designed to integrate seamlessly with other components of the PushPress ecosystem. For instance, it has been merged with the Members App, which allows members to manage appointments, track workouts, and connect with the gym community through custom group chats. This integration simplifies the fitness journey for both gym owners and members.

    Additionally, PushPress integrates with various external tools to enhance its functionality. For example, it integrates with MailChimp for email campaigns, allowing gym owners to send targeted emails to their members.



    Compatibility Across Platforms and Devices

    PushPress Train is accessible through a single app that works across multiple devices. This app allows members to log workouts, track performance, and engage with the gym community, all from one platform. The app is user-friendly and provides a unified experience, making it easy for members to manage their fitness activities regardless of the device they use.



    Data Export and Import

    Members have the flexibility to export their data from other platforms, such as SugarWOD, and import it into their personal Train account. This feature ensures that members can bring their existing workout data into the PushPress system, making the transition smoother.



    Automated Processes

    The system includes automated billing and member synchronization, which reduces manual calculations and streamlines administrative tasks. This automation ensures that the system is compatible with the operational needs of the gym, making it easier to manage member data and financial transactions.



    Programming Partnerships

    PushPress Train also integrates with various programming partners, offering a diverse range of workout programs and challenges. These partnerships provide a seamless workout experience by incorporating different fitness levels and goals directly into the PushPress platform.

    While the provided resources do not specify detailed technical compatibility (e.g., operating systems, browsers), the emphasis on a unified app experience and integration with other tools suggests a high level of compatibility across different devices and platforms. If specific technical details are needed, it might be best to contact PushPress directly for more detailed information.

    Push - Customer Support and Resources



    Customer Support Channels



    PushPress Messenger (The Little Blue Box)

    This is a powerful tool powered by Intercom that allows for two-way communication with the PushPress team. You can access a library of help articles, search for specific topics using keywords, and interact with Pressly, a bot that can answer most of your questions. If Pressly cannot assist you, you can request to tag in a human support team member.



    Email Support

    You can email support@pushpress.com for assistance. These emails are integrated into the Intercom system, ensuring a prompt response from the support team.



    Live Sessions

    For more complex issues, PushPress offers live sessions with their team, providing direct and personalized support.



    Additional Resources



    Help Articles and Documentation

    PushPress provides a comprehensive library of help articles and videos that offer step-by-step guides to help you resolve issues on your own. These resources are available 24/7 and can be accessed through the PushPress Messenger.



    Facebook Community Group

    Joining the PushPress Facebook Community Group allows you to connect with other users, learn from their experiences, and contribute to the community. This is a great place to get tips, share knowledge, and stay updated on new features and best practices.



    Product-Specific Resources

    While the specific resources mentioned above are from PushPress, which is closely related to the broader ecosystem of sports tools, here are some additional details relevant to the Push product:



    Release Notes and Updates

    The Push portal provides detailed release notes that outline new features, improvements, and fixes. This helps you stay informed about the latest changes and how they can benefit your use of the product.



    User Guides and Features

    The Push portal includes various features such as manual entry tests, scheduling questionnaires, and performance tracking tools. These are documented in the release notes and other support materials, ensuring you can make the most out of the platform.

    By leveraging these support channels and resources, you can ensure a seamless and supported experience while using Push and other related sports tools.

    Push - Pros and Cons



    Advantages



    Versatility

    PUSH Band 2.0 is highly versatile, allowing it to be used for jump testing and tracking any non-barbell exercises. It can be placed on a barbell for team training or on the body for non-barbell exercises.



    User-Friendly Software

    The software is renowned for its ease of use, enabling users to start using it within minutes rather than hours. This makes it accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy.



    Portal Integration for Remote Coaching

    PUSH’s system allows for scheduling workouts, generating reports, and running competitions with ease, making it ideal for remote coaching applications.



    Affordability

    Compared to Linear Position Transducer (LPT) systems, PUSH Band 2.0 is significantly more affordable, costing $349 versus $2500 for LPT systems.



    Motivation and Engagement

    The real-time feedback provided by PUSH can be very motivating for athletes, helping them stay engaged and push harder in their training.



    Disadvantages



    Accuracy at High Loads

    While PUSH’s accelerometer technology is excellent for most lifts, it is less accurate for lifts involving 400 pounds, particularly for velocities under 0.1 m/s. LPT technology is more accurate in these scenarios.



    Learning Curve

    Implementing velocity-based training (VBT) with PUSH or similar devices requires a certain level of expertise. Coaches and trainers need to understand how to use the equipment and interpret the data correctly, which can be a barrier.



    Potential for Data Overload

    The data provided by PUSH can be overwhelming. Coaches need to sift through the information and focus on the most relevant metrics to avoid getting bogged down by too much data.



    Dependency on Technology

    The training process can be disrupted if the equipment fails or malfunctions. Coaches and athletes need to have backup plans in place to mitigate this risk.

    Overall, PUSH offers a user-friendly, versatile, and affordable solution for velocity-based training, but it may have limitations in terms of accuracy at very high loads and requires some technical expertise to use effectively.

    Push - Comparison with Competitors



    Unique Features of PUSH

    • Benchmarking and Real-Time Data: PUSH stands out with its ability to benchmark athletes against four key elements of athleticism: strength, power, speed, and endurance. It provides real-time data and analytics, ensuring athletes can track their progress accurately and adjust their training accordingly.
    • Velocity-Based Training (VBT) System: The PUSH tracker monitors the speed of movements, offering a precise measure of performance that is crucial for optimizing workouts.
    • Master Coach Programming: PUSH offers sports-specific training plans developed by Master Coaches, which is a significant advantage for athletes seeking professional guidance without the need for in-person coaching.
    • Community and Leaderboards: PUSH allows athletes to track their progress against friends and teammates through leaderboards, fostering a competitive and supportive community.


    Potential Alternatives



    Catapult Group

    • Focus on Performance Analytics: Catapult Group provides AI-driven performance analytics, similar to PUSH, but with a broader focus on collecting data from wearable devices and advanced software. This is particularly useful for teams and athletes looking to enhance training, strategy, and injury prevention across various sports.
    • Broader Application: While PUSH is more consumer-focused, Catapult Group’s solutions are often used at the professional and team levels.


    Sportlogiq

    • Advanced AI and Computer Vision: Sportlogiq uses AI and computer vision to capture and analyze data from live events, which can enhance performance, strategy, and scouting. This is particularly beneficial for teams and organizations looking to gain detailed insights from video feeds.
    • Youth Sports Analytics: Sportlogiq extends its solutions to youth sports, providing high-level analytics that can bridge the gap between amateur and professional sports.


    Microsoft

    • Intelligent Cloud and Azure AI: Microsoft’s Sports Performance Platform integrates data to improve team strategy and athlete training, using Azure AI for real-time insights and predictive analytics. This is more geared towards team and organizational levels, offering a comprehensive platform for performance enhancement and fan engagement.
    • Broader Integration: Microsoft’s solutions can integrate with various applications, providing AI-powered decision-making across different aspects of sports management.


    IBM

    • Watsonx.ai and Predictive Analytics: IBM’s Watsonx.ai offers solutions that enhance player performance, operational capabilities, and fan involvement through real-time insights, predictive analytics, and personalized services. This includes advanced safety systems for venues and collaborations with organizations like the UFC.
    • Advanced Analytics: IBM’s solutions are highly advanced, using machine learning and large language models to provide detailed insights into player fitness and team strategy.


    Key Differences

    • Consumer Focus: PUSH is more consumer-focused, making its technology accessible to individual athletes who want to train smarter at home or in any training environment. In contrast, companies like Catapult Group, Sportlogiq, Microsoft, and IBM often cater more to professional teams and organizations.
    • Specific Features: While PUSH excels in velocity-based training and Master Coach programming, other companies offer more specialized services such as video analytics (Sportlogiq), comprehensive team strategy (Microsoft), and advanced predictive analytics (IBM).
    In summary, PUSH offers a unique blend of consumer-focused, AI-driven training tools with real-time data and Master Coach programming. However, for those looking for more specialized or team-oriented solutions, alternatives like Catapult Group, Sportlogiq, Microsoft, and IBM provide a range of advanced analytics and performance enhancement tools.

    Push - Frequently Asked Questions



    Frequently Asked Questions about the Push Sports Training Tool



    Q1: What is Push and how does it work?

    Push is a sports training tool primarily used for strength and conditioning programs. It works by allowing coaches to create and manage customized workout programs for athletes. The platform includes features like the Block Builder, which enables the creation of dynamic program templates, and the ability to prescribe specific exercises, tempos, and resistance training components. Athletes can view and complete these workouts through the Push app, and coaches can track progress and adjust programs as needed.

    Q2: How do I create and manage workout programs on Push?

    To create and manage workout programs on Push, you use the Block Builder feature. This tool allows you to design workout templates by days and weeks without specifying exact dates. You can add warm-up, cool-down, and speed exercises, and even link YouTube videos to guide athletes. Programs can be copied, edited, and scheduled directly from the calendar, and you can also prescribe tempos and multiple resistance components for each session.

    Q3: Can I track athlete performance and progress on Push?

    Yes, you can track athlete performance and progress on Push. The platform provides various tools such as the Athlete Dashboard, where you can view completed exercises, load lifted, and other performance metrics. The Leaderboard feature displays relative metrics like load, force, power, and work relative to the athlete’s current mass. Additionally, you can create and manage manual entry tests to track results for tests not included in the app.

    Q4: How do I schedule and assign workouts to athletes on Push?

    Scheduling and assigning workouts to athletes on Push is straightforward. You can use the calendar feature to schedule sessions directly for your athletes. You can copy and paste sessions across different months, edit sessions from the team and athlete calendars, and even send programs to athletes via email. Athletes can then log in to the Portal and use the copied program as if they had created it themselves.

    Q5: What kind of support and resources does Push offer for coaches and athletes?

    Push offers several support and resources for coaches and athletes. This includes the ability to change emails and account settings, bulk import athletes using CSV files, and access to various release notes that detail new features and improvements. Coaches can also schedule questionnaires and tests for athletes, and there are improvements in the exercise database and calendar management.

    Q6: Can I customize the workout programs and exercises on Push?

    Yes, you can customize workout programs and exercises on Push. The Block Builder allows you to create dynamic program templates and add or remove exercises as needed. You can also filter exercises by various fields, use alternate names for exercises, and link YouTube videos to provide additional guidance. The platform supports multiple resistance components in a single session and allows for the creation of manual entry tests.

    Q7: How does Push handle data privacy and security?

    While the specific details on data privacy and security are not extensively outlined in the provided resources, Push does have features that indicate a focus on user data management. For example, the platform allows coaches to view who has access to their PUSH data through the Privacy tab in Account Settings. However, for detailed information on data privacy policies, it would be best to refer directly to Push’s official documentation or contact their support team.

    Q8: Can I integrate Push with other devices or apps?

    Push allows integration with various devices and apps to some extent. For instance, while the primary interaction is through the Push app, coaches and athletes can use other tools to track workout metrics. However, specific integrations like those with wearable devices or health apps are not detailed in the provided resources. It is recommended to check the latest release notes or contact Push support for the most current information on integrations.

    Q9: How do I update or edit completed workout sessions on Push?

    You can update or edit completed workout sessions on Push through the Athlete Dashboard. Here, you can change the number of reps done or the load lifted for a set by clicking on any rep in the set in the Session Data graph. This ensures that any changes made do not result in inaccurate data, as load-related metrics are set to 0 if the load lifted is changed after the set was completed.

    Q10: Are there any specific system requirements or compatibility issues I should be aware of?

    Push has specific requirements and compatibility considerations. For example, certain features require the use of the PUSH app version 7.0 or higher. Additionally, some features like scheduling questionnaires and tests are available only on Android initially, with plans to expand to iOS. It is important to check the release notes and system requirements to ensure compatibility with your devices and software.

    Push - Conclusion and Recommendation



    Final Assessment of PUSH in the Sports Tools AI-driven Product Category

    PUSH is a significant player in the sports technology sector, particularly in the area of athlete performance analysis and improvement. Here’s a detailed assessment of who would benefit most from using PUSH and an overall recommendation.

    Key Benefits and Features

    PUSH offers a comprehensive system that includes a wearable accelerometer (PUSH Band), a training management system (Portal), and a mobile app. This setup enables coaches and trainers to plan, track, assess, and improve athlete performance in real-time. The system is grounded in velocity-based training (VBT), which has been proven to increase strength gains by nearly 50% while minimizing fatigue and maximizing performance.

    Who Would Benefit Most



    Professional and Olympic Teams

    PUSH already works with hundreds of professional and Olympic sports teams globally. These teams can significantly benefit from the detailed performance data and real-time insights provided by PUSH to optimize their training programs and strategies.

    Coaches and Trainers

    Coaches can use PUSH to create and manage workout programs, track athlete performance, and make data-driven decisions to improve team performance.

    Athletes

    Athletes themselves can benefit from the real-time feedback and personalized training plans, helping them to improve their performance and reduce the risk of injury.

    Amateur and Weekend Athletes

    While PUSH is predominantly used by professional teams, its features can also be valuable for amateur athletes and weekend warriors looking to enhance their performance and training regimens.

    Overall Recommendation

    PUSH is highly recommended for any sports team or individual athlete looking to integrate advanced technology into their training and performance analysis. Here are some key reasons:

    Comprehensive Performance Tracking

    PUSH provides a complete picture of an athlete’s performance both in the weight room and remotely, aligning well with Catapult’s on-field performance analysis solutions.

    Injury Prevention

    The real-time biometric monitoring and VBT approach help in identifying early warnings of potential injuries, allowing for preventive measures and customized rehabilitation programs.

    Strategic Planning

    Coaches can use the data from PUSH to develop more effective training programs and game strategies, enhancing overall team performance.

    User-Friendly Interface

    The cloud-based software, wearable device, and mobile app make it easy for both coaches and athletes to access and utilize the performance data. In summary, PUSH is a valuable tool for anyone involved in sports performance enhancement, offering a seamless and data-driven approach to improving athlete performance and reducing injury risk. Its integration with other sports technology solutions, such as Catapult, further enhances its utility in providing a holistic view of athlete performance.

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