The in’s and out's of fitness trackers

By Bio Island Nutrition Team

In this day and age, we have endless options to technology that can track our every move and potentially every thought. Fitness trackers is one of those giants that nearly everyone has in some shape or form. But what is the difference between them all? Which one records accurate readings?

Fitness trackers are a great tool for anyone trying to get into an exercise routine and wants results from their new routine. The tracker will record your progress and can give you weekly reports on how you have improved. They can also help you hit your daily step goals and just be a great reminder to get up and move around if you have been sitting for too long.

Smartwatch vs fitness tracker

This is very dependent on what features you want from your device.  You would be looking at a smartwatch if you want a device that has all the information you would find on your phone. Messages, calls, emails and still be able to track for fitness. One of the down sides of a smartwatch are they tend to be heavier, bulkier, expensive and can be just uncomfortable during workouts.

Design

Fitness trackers tend to be more practical and refined. They are smaller in size and hug your wrist to get heart beat readings. As more variations come out so do the options to have a more personal style when it comes to the bands. Being able to switch the bands to suit your style has created another craze to have a fitness tracker as an accessory rather than an actual piece of equipment to help you reach your fitness goals.

Cost

The cost of the fitness tracker can play a vital role in which device you end up with. They can start from $30 - $1000. All depending on the features you want from the watch and the brand its from plays a big role. Look into the features you are wanting from having a tracker and potentially have a budget to not over spend on a device that may not serve your needs.

Some features to look out for when purchasing a tracker:

• The step counter
• A distance counter
• The technology used in the device
• The calorie counter
• Waterproof claims
• A sleep tracker
• An altimeter feature, used in measuring the distance or changes in height
• Heart rate monitor
• Battery life
• Bluetooth version
• Base the main feature of the tracker on what your main style of exercise is or what you want to achieve from purchasing the tracker. Running, daily steps, weight loss, swimming.

A fitness tracker is a great tool to purchase to help you achieve goals and help keep you visually focused by seeing results not just in physical appearance but in increase exercise performance. Look into your needs and try them on to find the right style for you.