Things to Consider When Buying a Fitness Tracker
Choosing a fitness tracker can be a daunting task, especially when you're just starting out on a fitness routine. There are so many options available that come in different sizes and price ranges, and you may not know whether to choose a smartwatch, a tracker, or a smart ring .
Choosing the right fitness tracker depends on many factors, and when you know these basic factors, it will be easy to make the final decision.
To help you choose the right fitness tracker for you, here are the most important factors to consider before purchasing:
1- Check compatibility with other devices:
Any fitness tracker needs to be paired with a smartphone to set up and sync health data and track notifications. That means checking which phones the tracker you’re considering is compatible with. For example, the Google Pixel Watch 3 only works with phones running Android 10 or later, while the Apple Watch only works with iPhones.
If you want to switch phones connected to the tracker as you wish, it is better to choose a tracker that supports both Android and iOS such as those produced by some brands such as: Coros or Garmin.
2- Durability and water resistance:
Most cheap fitness trackers are less durable, often made of low-quality plastic, and have low water resistance. Higher-priced ones are more durable and have high water resistance.
The amount of durability you should look for depends on the activities you do. If you're just interested in walking or light jogging, low- to mid-priced devices with a plastic body will be fine for you. These devices often have an IP54 water resistance rating, keeping the device safe from sweat and light rain.
If you are a fan of intense sports such as mountain climbing, look for a device that is water and dust resistant according to the IP68 standard. Devices with these specifications come in a sturdy metal body, and their screens are covered with a layer of durable glass to protect them from scratches.
However, IP68 support does not mean that you can swim while wearing the device. If you are a swimmer, look for a device that supports water resistance according to the EN13319 or ISO 22810 standard. If you are a diver, look for a device that is certified for diving and check the maximum depth the device can reach.
If you are a bodybuilder or weightlifter, avoid smart rings because they are uncomfortable to hold weights, and they may get scratched or broken during exercise.
3- Heart rate sensor accuracy:
Trackers rely on heart rate to estimate calories, which is one of the most important factors in determining the appropriate diet.
On the other hand, athletes need accurate heart rate data to make appropriate changes in exercise intensity to achieve their own goals.
Most fitness trackers include a heart rate sensor, but not all sensors are equally accurate, so you should check the accuracy of the sensor in the device you are considering buying by reading reviews of the device from people who have used it.
4- GPS system is characterized by accuracy:
Location data isn't important to you if you're lifting weights or using a treadmill, but it's essential when you're running, cycling, or swimming outside, helping track routes and distance.
For runners or hikers, a multi-band GPS is a must because following the wrong path in the forest, desert or mountain range can lead to getting lost and having difficulty getting back.
So, look for a fitness tracker that features multi-band GPS if you're a fan of running and hiking.
5- Accuracy of blood oxygen sensor:
A blood oxygen sensor can reveal signs of certain diseases or indicate sleep apnea or poor physical fitness.
Tracking blood oxygen levels is also particularly useful for athletes, because muscles need as much oxygen as possible to perform at their best.
6- Long battery life:
Battery life is an important thing to check before purchasing a fitness tracker because it greatly affects your ability to track all the daily exercises you want to do.
For example: The Apple Watch Series 10 has a battery life of up to 18 hours , which means you'll need to charge the watch at least once a day and maybe twice if you want to track sleep.
The Ultra 2 model lasts up to three days on a single charge, which means you can track sleep for more than one night, as well as track more daily exercise.
If you love hiking and camping, look for a device like the Garmin Enduro 3 that can last for weeks thanks to its built-in solar panels.