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Facts About Fitness Trackers and Which One is Right for You
By:Morgan Radlinger C.W.P.– Network Health
Originally published on 5/15/2020 at 9:25 a.m.
Wearable fitness trackers provide a great way to help monitor your exercise, heart rate, sleep cycles and more depending on the type of device you have. Many devices also keep you on track by allowing you to compete against others with the same or similar devices, adding a social element that helps you crush your fitness goals.
In this way, wearables – as wearable fitness trackers are sometimes called – help increase health consciousness. An important thing to keep in mind, however, is the more convenient a biometric device, often the greater chance for inaccurate readings. For this reason, wearables should never be used to replace your annual doctor’s visit.
So, are fitness trackers safe?
For as long as they’ve been around, there have been people talking about wearables as being dangerous – even, that they may cause cancer.
Many of these rumors are sourced in the fact that wearable fitness trackers emit amounts of electric and magnetic fields (EMF) radiation. This may sound dangerous, but as far as modern science can tell – it’s no cause for concern.
In fact, when compared to the amount of radiation emitted by a cell phone, wearable fitness trackers pose a significantly reduced threat thanks to their distance from your head – unlike a cell phone. That said, researchers are constantly monitoring the safety of wearables, making sure the item you’re choosing to help with health and wellness isn’t making you less healthy.
Although not dangerous, be aware that some devices may cause skin irritation or uncomfortable rubbing from wearing them consistently. Make sure you are cleaning your device at least once a week in line with the manufacturers’ recommendations to help avoid irritation.
Is turning fitness into a game dangerous?
Fitness watches do come with some hidden concerns which can include the obsession some people get from counting calories, closing “rings” and checking boxes for their amount of activity completed in a day.
These types of devices should be used to improve and never punish yourself.
Wearables also come with distractions because many provide notifications for things like text messages and social media alerts that can be dangerous while driving. Unlike your phone, that’s best left in a center console away from your eyes, a fitness watch may wind up right in your field of vision as you hold the steering wheel. Never take your eyes off the road to check a notification.
There’s an added social danger as well. Just like talking on your cell phone or checking your notification is rude during meetings or while socializing, the same is true for your fitness tracker, so make sure you are following proper etiquette and turn off notifications when appropriate.
Fitness tracker benefits
Proper use of your fitness tracker gives you a powerful tool to help reach your fitness goals. Studies show fitness trackers can help address the challenge of public health and physical inactivity through the following.
- Fitness trackers help increase awareness of physical activity or sedentary behavior.
- Most fitness trackers have a mobile app to track and log additional healthy activities, adding a social/accountability element that has been shown to help people achieve fitness goals.
- Fitness trackers provide individualized goal-setting and tracking, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach that may leave you feeling like a plan doesn’t meet your needs.
In terms of cost, fitness trackers can range from $25 to $300+ depending on quality and features. An inexpensive tracker is likely to include base features such as a pedometer and app for logging meals. More expensive fitness trackers add features like mobile notifications, heartrate monitoring, GPS tracking and even music streaming apps that work independently of your smartphone.
Most wearable fitness trackers start with a common goal of 10,000 steps per day and allow you to adjust the number of minutes spent exercising in line with a fitness program.
Fitbit vs. Garmin vs. the Others: Which Fitness Tracker is Best?
There are many fitness trackers, each with their own unique approaches, specializations and features. Brands such as Fitbit, Garmin and smartphone-based smartwatches are the more popular choices.
Choosing the right option is a matter of selecting the features that are most important to you. Here are some fast facts about the most popular fitness trackers on the market.
Fitbit | Garmin | Smart Watches |
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We conducted a full roundup of popular fitness tracker and smartwatch brands. You can view that by clicking below.
>>> Which Fitness Tracker is Right for Me in 2021? <<<
When deciding what device is best for you, you will want to choose which features are the ones you need to keep you on track. You may also weigh the appearance, color options and functionality against one another.
Once you have narrowed down devices, you can consider price and decide how much you are willing to spend. It is a good idea to start with a more basic model to see how much you use you watch and then upgrade from there. Many companies partner with different wearable fitness device brands, such as Fitbit, to offer trackers at discounted rates. Your health insurance plan may even pitch in to cover some or all the cost. Before purchasing a fitness tracker, check with your insurance plan or employer and see what they may offer.
Fitness Trackers: A 21stCentury Way to Approach Your Goals
Safe, effective and convenient, fitness trackers are a great way to keep track of your progress and add social and gamified elements often missing from traditional workout regimens. Experts encourage their use in most circ*mstances because wearable fitness trackers increase your awareness of your activity level and provide a cut-and-dry framework for working toward your fitness ambitions.
While they can become distracting and should never replace your physician, using them in line with wellness best practices is almost certain to level up your workouts and daily life.
For more information on how a fitness tracker can fit into your wellness goals, contact Network Health’s wellness team today.
>>> Contact Us <<<
As someone deeply immersed in the world of health and fitness technology, it's evident that wearable fitness trackers have revolutionized the way we approach personal well-being. My extensive expertise in this field allows me to dissect the nuances presented in the article by Morgan Radlinger and provide a comprehensive overview.
Firstly, the article emphasizes the multifaceted benefits of wearable fitness trackers. These devices serve as invaluable tools for monitoring exercise, heart rate, sleep cycles, and more. The integration of social elements, such as friendly competition with others, enhances motivation and aids in achieving fitness goals. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that the convenience of these biometric devices can sometimes lead to inaccurate readings, underlining the importance of not replacing regular medical check-ups with wearable technology.
One notable concern often associated with fitness trackers is the emission of electric and magnetic fields (EMF) radiation. The article aptly addresses this issue, clarifying that, according to modern science, wearable fitness trackers pose no significant threat compared to the radiation emitted by cell phones. Continuous monitoring ensures the ongoing safety of these devices, reinforcing the idea that wearables contribute positively to health and wellness.
The article raises awareness about potential skin irritation or discomfort caused by prolonged wear of fitness trackers. Regular cleaning, in line with manufacturers' recommendations, is advised to mitigate these issues. This attention to detail demonstrates an understanding of the practical challenges users may encounter.
Moving on to the psychological aspect, the article delves into the potential dangers of turning fitness into a game. While fitness trackers offer gamified elements like counting calories and completing activity "rings," the emphasis is on responsible use. It warns against developing an obsession that could lead to self-punishment, emphasizing the need to use these devices as tools for improvement rather than sources of stress.
The social and safety aspects of fitness trackers are also addressed, highlighting distractions and potential dangers while driving. Proper etiquette is stressed, advising users to turn off notifications when appropriate. This insight reflects a nuanced understanding of the real-world implications of incorporating wearable technology into daily life.
The article concludes by outlining the benefits of fitness trackers when used correctly. These include increased awareness of physical activity, mobile apps for tracking additional healthy activities, individualized goal-setting, and cost considerations. The mention of popular brands like Fitbit, Garmin, and smartwatches indicates a familiarity with the market, allowing users to make informed decisions based on their preferences and needs.
In summary, the article provides a well-rounded exploration of fitness trackers, covering their benefits, potential drawbacks, safety considerations, and popular brands. The information presented aligns with the latest trends and best practices in the rapidly evolving field of health and fitness technology.
