If getting toned is on your to-do-list for the summer, you might be looking for ways to increase your chances of staying on track. Even if you have a few inches to lose, it never hurts to make sure you’re marching in the right direction. Courtesy of fitness trackers, it is easier than ever to keep track of your progress.
These devices help in keeping record of your exercise stats, as well as generating reports and visuals to measure daily performance. For a relatively affordable price, fitness trackers offer the opportunity to kick-start a fitness regime, and hold the user accountable for making healthy lifestyle changes.
Yet, there are a few considerations to make before buying one. Here’s what you need to take into account:
The Form Factor
An important question to ask as a potential buyer is the type of form factor you prefer. Fitness trackers can be in the form of clip-ons, watches, or bracelets. The latter two are hard to lose during exercise sessions, while the former can easily fall off during activities like running.
Watches should be preferred over bracelets if you’re looking for better closure. Jawbone Up doesn’t fasten and it doesn’t have a display, while Fitbit fitness trackers have traditional belted watch closures.
However, a clip-on is better in instances where you’re bothered about the device getting damaged during chores. These devices are discreet and can be easily worn as an eye-catching accessory. The drawback is that the user has to rely on the smartphone display for the tracked activity.
Extra Features
Extra features are available with the basic functionality of a fitness tracker. The site www.craveonline.com points out that Basis Peak is a fitness tracker that allows users to send emails and text messages, as well as make calls, create calendar entries, and receive notifications when they’re slacking. These features won’t be present in a low-priced, basic calorie tracking option.
Easier syncing is also one bonus feature you may want to consider. For example, Jawbone’s UP24 is much loved by fitness enthusiasts over original UP just because of syncing; older UP models require the user to plug the device into their phone to transfer data, while newer versions conduct everything via Bluetooth wirelessly.
Some fitness trackers have apps that function as a barcode scanner, so they can be taken to the grocery store as well. Other added features to look out for include smart vibrating alarms (these wake you up according to circadian rhythms) and advanced smartwatch sensors that keep you connected to the web. Decide which features matter to you to tailor your purchase decision accordingly.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Trackers like Fitbit Charge HR are the best when it comes to heart rate monitoring comprehensiveness, giving 24/7 bpm readings. Some advanced trackers also include multi-sensor platforms that include bioimpedance sensors and tri-axis accelerometers for monitoring heart rate. The before mentioned Basis Peak is also up there, going head-to-head with Microsoft Band.
However, if you want to monitor your heart rate only during workouts, you can go for options like Mio Fuse and Mio Alpha 2. These devices don’t watch your resting heart rate, and are meant to monitor heart activity during training. Cheaper options may not have a heart rate monitor built in.
All fitness trackers have a trade-off in different aspects – so decide what matters most to you and purchase accordingly.