It’s easy enough to start a new exercise program. Sticking with it is the hard part. Happily, the electronic age has presented us with some surprising forms of support. From step counters and fitness trackers to online workouts and apps of all sorts, getting in shape has gone digital.
Can wearable fitness devices help you stay motivated to work out?
Wearable fitness devices are exactly what they sound like — electronic watches, rings and bands that track your movement to provide information on how much exercise you’re getting. Whether you’re using them to measure calories, steps, distance or heart rate, many users find these devices a satisfying way to work toward reaching their fitness targets, especially if they’re training for a specific goal.
The pros
By automatically clocking your data, fitness trackers take the guesswork out of how far and how fast you’re moving. While a treadmill or elliptical at the gym monitors your speed and distance while you’re on the machine, wearable devices are mobile, performing the same task wherever you go indoors or outdoors all day long. And because you can wear them as you would a watch or jewelry, they’re unobtrusive. You may even forget you have them on.
Many devotees are intrigued by the insights they gain from their fitness devices, which helps improve their overall health awareness. Some of the more sophisticated products can monitor everything from your sleep and menstrual cycles to water intake and stress levels. Some trackers alert wearers to potentially dangerous health issues and can share valuable data directly with healthcare providers.
The cons
Fitness devices only work if you wear them consistently, and a fit that’s too loose or incorrect placement can affect the accuracy. Depending on your needs, you may be able to track some of the information you’re looking for using a smartphone or other device you already own.
People who opt for fancier devices might need to be fairly tech savvy to learn how to operate them. The controls can be confusing or even overwhelming for those who aren’t as comfortable using gadgets.
And of course, budget plays a factor. Wearable fitness devices can range from less than $50 into the hundreds of dollars for top-of-the-line models. Some may require a monthly service or subscription fee as well.
What to look for
If you’re in the market for a wearable fitness device, do some homework before making a purchase. First, think about what kinds of features are most important to you. Do you want the latest and greatest technology with all the bells and whistles, or are you just looking for something to count the number of steps you take and ring a bell when you hit your goal?
Other considerations include battery life, waterproof materials, built-in GPS, comfort, security, style, size, color, tech support options and warranty.
Most importantly, find a wearable fitness device that is right for you.
