Staying healthy and in top shape is very important to many of us but the frantic lifestyle can make regular workouts quite difficult.
Fortunately, technology offers some gadgets that can help you track your progress and make sure you stay fit.
Fitness aids come in various forms, from workout apps to wearable gadgets that will motivate you to get up and get going. Here are some of the best gadgets you need to invest in.
1. Fitness Watches
Fitness bands and smartwatches are one of the most popular ways to keep track of your progress. Depending on the model, you can track calories, steps, distance, and even monitor your sleep and heart rate. Some models offer GPS tracking to map your pace and distance. If you’re still unsure whether fitness watches are worth the money, this review will tell you everything you need to know.
2. Calorie Counting Apps
Everything you eat, whether it is protein, carbs, or fats, contains calories. In order to stay in good shape, you need a combination of a certain amount of calories and a balanced mixture of these nutrients.
If you’re physically active, whether to gain muscle mass or lose weight, knowing how to fuel your body is crucial. Calorie counting apps can help you track your calorie intake and make sure your diet is balanced.
Besides simple calorie counting, advanced calorie counting apps can also track the percentage of carbs, sugars, and fats, and offer blogs, recipes, and personalized food plans.
3. Workout Apps
Whether your goal is to build a more active lifestyle or shed a few extra pounds, your smartphone is your best workout partner. And not just to accompany you when you exercise or play great music. Some of the best workout apps include detailed instructions (why pay for a costly personal trainer?) and progress tracking that can be synced with health-monitoring apps you also have on your smartphone. Whether your training plan involves running, yoga, strength training, or any other form of fitness, you can find an ideal workout companion that will track your progress and help you achieve your goals.
4. Heart Rate Monitors
Do you want to get more energy or lose weight? Or maybe you’re preparing for a marathon? The best way to track the effectiveness of your training is by using a heart rate monitor. Heart rate monitors help you understand how your body responds to physical activity.
A heart rate monitor is worn on a strap around your chest (some are worn on the wrist but they’re generally less accurate). Basic models show the number of heartbeats in a minute, whereas more advanced heart rate monitors enable you to set ranges, heart rate goals, etc. Most heart rate monitors can be connected to an app or a smartwatch that provides a readout.
5. Sleep Monitors
You might be wondering why monitoring your sleep is important for your fitness. Actually, getting a good night’s sleep is essential for a healthy life. Many people don’t get enough sleep during the night. Watching your favorite show on TV or scrolling on your phone often keeps you awake. Sometimes, regular sleep can be disrupted by a bad mattress or pillow, too much stress during the day, snoring, etc.
Using a sleep monitor can be of great help. Sleep monitors come in the form of wrist bands (which can be uncomfortable) and apps with recording functions (in case you don’t believe your partner when he says you snore).
If you want to have enough energy for your workouts, you need to make sure you’re getting enough sleep. A sleep monitor will help you determine the number of hours you spend sleeping and whether you need to make some changes for a better rest.
6. Body Mass Index Monitors
Your BMI (Body Mass Index) is a person’s weight divided by height. A high Body Mass Index can indicate high body fatness, but it can also signal certain health problems.
Measuring your Body Mass Index can require expensive sessions in health centers but fortunately, now there are portable Body Mass Index monitors that you can use wherever you are to track your progress and monitor how your body is changing as you’re getting in better shape. These devices use electro frequency to measure your BMI and then send the data to your phone. If you’re really determined to get fitter, monitoring your Body Mass Index will help you reach your fitness goals faster.
7. Smart Clothing
Besides the above-listed devices, you can also monitor your progress through your activewear. Yes, you heard it right – sports clothes are getting smarter and can now measure your heart rate, respiratory activity, the number of steps, energy, and even monitor your posture.
Smart socks and shoes give information about your speed and weight distribution while at the same time counting your steps. More advanced models also provide real-time audio coaching to improve energy efficiency and reduce the risk of injury. The best thing is that these hi-tech clothing items are very fashionable and comfortable
Final Thoughts
Keep in mind that there are no shortcuts to getting fitter and healthier, but there are plenty of gadgets you can rely on for help. Make sure to consult a healthcare professional before starting a radical change in exercise and/or food.
