Benefits of Wearable Technology
Are you looking to build better habits, track health metrics, or find the perfect gift for the upcoming holidays? Wearable tech, including gadgets and garments is a great way to get involved in your own health. Here is how to get fit with wearable technology, metrics to track, and benefits of accountability and motivation. Learn more about the many benefits of wearable technology.
While smartwatches may be considered the pioneer wearable fitness device, there are a number of new devices. Rings, headbands, sunglasses, and socks to name a few. While each brand and device is different, here are some of the most common metrics you can track with wearable fitness tech.
- Heart rate and rhythm (including resting heart rate and heart rate variability), blood pressure, respiration, body temperature, VO2max, blood oxygen
- Sleep stages and quality, movement, noise, nighttime biometrics
- Daily steps and activity, calorie expenditure, food intake, hydration
Benefits of Wearable Fitness Tech
Accountability
A fitness tracker can help you remain accountable with reminders to complete your workout, get moving, or hydrate. Many devices include an app that lets you connect with other members and complete challenges, further enhancing accountability.
Motivation
Wearable technology allows you to visualize your progress and accomplishments throughout the day. Whether it’s the number of steps taken, stairs climbed, or distance run.
Goals Setting
Fitness trackers can be great for setting goals. Not only can you see the daily, short-term milestones. But you are also able to see trends over time and progress toward long-term health and fitness goals.
Recent studies support the use of fitness trackers for creating and sustaining positive health changes. Additionally, most data can be shared with your healthcare team and provide further insight into your overall health. While this is a great tool for many, detailed and precise tracking can lead to anxiety, obsession, and unhealthy habits for some.
Are you interested in learning about what wearable fitness technology would work best for you? Talk to your trainer for recommendations based on your goals, activity level, and activity type.