Stay on Top of Your Goals with Wearable Tech

If knowledge is power, then wearable tech might as well be your very own Wonder Woman wrist cuffs. Wearable technology—think smart watches & fitness trackers—monitor your heart rate, calories burned, sitting time, steps, sleep, stress levels & more. They're the #1 top fitness trend in 2024 and have been in the top 3 since 2016—the year after the Apple Watch debuted.

The information these devices provide about workouts, heart rate, pulse, step count, sleep and even stress can be valuable indicators that help exercise professionals tailor programs for their clients.

Here are just a few of the advantages of using wearable technology to enhance workouts:

1. precise activity monitoring (steps, heart rate, estimated calorie burn)

2. ability to set and achieve fitness goals - you can customize & track your goals, set reminders, earn badges for milestones, etc.

3. track other essential wellness insights - sleep, stress & recovery

4. social engagement - many platforms offer the ability to compete with friends, join challenges, and share your progress to help keep you motivated and accountable

5. continuous motivation - constant reminders to make healthier choices

When it comes to which tech device is right for you, it's really up to the individual's needs and priorities (and price range). Here are the top-rated brands that are constantly updating and improving. This jumping off point, along with a little research of your own, should get you to the right device for you!

1. FitBit

2. Amazfit

3. Garmin - most known for their comprehensive fitness tracking

4. Apple Watch - for iPhone users, a smartwatch that does fitness well

5. Oura Ring - a non-wrist tracker - tracks heart rate, body temperature, steps & calories but the main focus is sleep & recovery

6. Samsung Galaxy Watch - for Samsung phone users

7. Google Pixel Watch - for Android phone users

8. Whoop Band - for next level athletes, particularly cardio-intensive sports, comes with expensive monthly subscription and also specializes in sleep & recovery