Fitness trackers, also known as activity tracking devices, have gained popularity in recent years. Designed to help you monitor and improve your fitness by recording various data about your physical activity, sleep habits, and more, they have become indispensable for some in their fitness journey. However, like any product, they have their pros and cons. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons to help you decide if a fitness tracker is suitable for your lifestyle.
Advantages
Helps Set Goals
Fitness trackers assist in setting clear and achievable goals based on your current fitness level. Whether you want to increase your daily step count, lose weight, or improve your endurance, these devices enable you to define goals. Some can even create a personalized workout program for a specific period. No need to sift through countless blogs for a suitable program; with a tracker, you simply follow its sensory guidance.
Visual Progress Tracking
One powerful feature of fitness trackers is their ability to visually display your progress. By recording data on your physical activity, they present graphs and charts that show how you've improved over time. At a glance, even if numbers aren't your best friend, you can assess your current health level and track your progress in your fitness goals.
Motivation
One of the most significant advantages of fitness trackers is their ability to motivate you. Just seeing your daily activities, such as step count, can encourage you to be more active. The idea of filling activity rings or reaching step goals can be a powerful motivator to stay active and healthy. Moreover, with some brands, you can also download your favorite music apps or use GPS features. With certain watches, you don't need to carry your phone when going for a run!
Disadvantages
Cost and Recurring Fees
Buying a fitness tracker comes with a cost and often requires an additional subscription for access to specific features, such as heart rate monitoring or tailored workout programs. It's essential to consider these costs before deciding to invest in a fitness tracker to make sure you get the best value for money, depending on your goals. If you are an occasional exerciser, you can try your phone's health app first. If you find you want to go further, then consider getting a fitness watch.
Not Always 100% Accurate
While fitness trackers are becoming more accurate, they can sometimes provide inaccurate data. A report in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health showed that evaluated trackers were over 10% behind in measuring total energy expenditure (TEE). It's important to remember that these devices provide estimates based on calculations and sensors. So, be cautious in their use, as errors and inaccurate calorie information could hinder your progress or, worse, lead to injury.
Technological Dependency and Body Relationship
A frequent criticism of fitness trackers is that they can create technological dependence. Users may become too focused on their tracker's data at the expense of their own body's intuition. This can impair the ability to listen to one's body and respond accordingly. It's crucial to maintain a healthy balance between using technology and understanding your own body's needs. If you decide to purchase a tracker to help achieve your fitness goals, don't hesitate to discuss it with a fitness coach at your favorite fitness studio to learn which device and features are most suitable for you!
In conclusion, fitness trackers have both advantages and disadvantages. They can be powerful tools to help maintain and improve fitness, but it's essential to weigh these pros and cons based on your needs and lifestyle. Before investing in a fitness tracker, consider how it will fit into your routine and how it will help you achieve your health and fitness goals.
