Big brother is watching you sweat

The system is based on a digital key. It fits into the console of each exercise machine and monitors an individual's workout

HONG KONG, China (CNN) -- If you haven't been to the gym lately -- don't be surprised if your boss wants to talk to you about it.

Human resource managers now find it easy to check whether workers have been working out.

The UK-based Fitness First club has been looking at a new technology that records who's going to the gym, what machines they use, and how well they're performing.

The data can be shared with companies itching to know whether executives who've signed up for fitness programs are becoming stronger and healthier.

"We can actually give them a report to show what their executives have been doing while they're in the gym," say Mike Lamb from Fitness First.

Digital key

CNN NewsPass VIDEO Some businesses are using a new technology to keep tabs on employees who work out at the gym at company expense. CNN's Andrew Brown reports. Play video

The system is based on a digital key. It fits into the console of each exercise machine and monitors an individual's workout.

It also tracks attendance which is useful for companies paying for their employees' gym memberships.

"I think they just want to see the money that they're spending is well spent," says Lamb.

Yet bosses requesting access to a gym's database are in a delicate position.

Members may have different views about whether, in principle, an employer has the right to this information.

Privacy laws

Technogym, the Italian company behind the digital keys concept, says it can adapt its programs to comply with privacy laws in different jurisdictions.

So far it has 800 customers worldwide and according to Technogym a number of multinationals including Adidas, Goldman Sachs and GlaxoSmithKline are using the system.

Fitness First stresses it is still evaluating the product, and may not be able to make use of all its features.

"Maybe we just say what time you came -- what time you left and so if you spent 90 per cent of your time in the sauna you're boss wouldn't know," says Lamb.

On the other hand, you could just crank up the treadmill to make your boss think you're a world-class athlete and take a break while it powers away.

No one's going to know what you actually did at the gym.