

“The system works by measuring the time it takes for signals to be received from satellites. “Fitness trackers can also measure the distance you run or cycle via GPS, which is built into the watch,” adds Anderson. Other wearables use an optical heart rate monitor: tiny LEDs illuminate your capillaries and the changing light refraction can be used to calculate your pulse. Most measure motion through three-axis accelerometer sensors – measuring the acceleration, frequency, duration, intensity and patterns of your movement. There is something to suit everyone.” How do fitness trackers work? “Many are now tailored towards different forms of exercise. “There are many options on the market right now at a variety of price points,” says Nick Anderson of coaching experts Running with Us. Some track your sleep – including how long you spend in light, deep and REM sleep. Some also allow you to view and respond to emails, texts and social posts.

What is a fitness tracker?įitness trackers are meant to be worn all day, every day, and designed to track everything from walking up the stairs or working out at home to running a multi-stage ultra-marathon. But choosing the right one can be a challenge. According to research from Deloitte's Digital Consumer Trends Report, a record 19.2m health tracking devices were bought by UK consumers in the year to July 2021, which is more than double the number the previous year. Some can even detect if you’ve taken a fall and automatically notify your emergency contacts. Some measure your blood oxygen levels, prescribe recovery time and create training plans as well as helping you track activity and lose weight. From fitness trackers that monitor your sleep to smartwatches specifically geared toward runners or cyclists, today’s wearables go way beyond simply telling the time.
