Fitness trackers: Will they make you fitter?

Apple Watch! Garmin! Fitbit! In the ever-evolving world of fitness tech, wearables have transformed our workouts into a data-driven experience. From heart rate monitors to sleep trackers, the market is flooded with devices promising to enhance our health and performance. But does more data necessarily mean better results? Let’s find out.

Wearables Unveiled: Wearables encompass a range of tracking devices, measuring various bodily functions like heart rate, sleep patterns, and step counts. Brands like Fitbit, Garmin, and Oura dominate the market, offering insights into personal health without being classified as medical devices.

Data Accuracy and Limitations: While this tech is cool and provides some info, caution is needed! Some measurements, like estimating VO2 max, may lack the precision of laboratory tests. The FDA warns against relying on wearables for blood sugar management, highlighting the need for discernment in choosing these devices. Sorry Tim Cook, the Apple Watch might not cut it.

Motivation or Facilitation: Fitness trackers are more like facilitators than instigators of behaviour change. According to experts, they won't magically enhance your workouts or improve sleep. However, they serve as tools for recognizing exercise trends, tracking progress, and maintaining accountability, especially in a group setting.

Athletic Enhancement: For athletes, the challenge lies in deciphering which data is genuinely beneficial. Beginners and professionals often use devices similarly, focusing on basics like distance and speed. However, mid-level athletes seeking personal bests or new milestones may find wearables most beneficial. These trackers can aid marathoners in moderating pace or guide bikers through training based on power zones.

The Data Dilemma: While wearables offer a wealth of information, not everyone needs a data dump. For those simply looking to get moving, the constant flow of metrics might be unnecessary. Dr. Ethan Weiss suggests an alternative approach: "Have you considered getting a dog?" - a reminder that sometimes, simplicity and a furry friend can be the best motivators.

All in all, if you’re using your handy wearable to track distance and pace, that’s cool! But if you’re praying to the Fitbit and Garmin gods to give you your blood oxygen levels to the mL, then we’d prefer you go to your doctor and do some tests instead.

.