An Overview of Fitness Activity Trackers

If you're interested in maintaining or improving your overall health, fitness activity trackers are invaluable tools that gather data about your exercise, daily routines, sleep, and more. Selecting the right tracker can seem overwhelming, but understanding the different devices and their features will help you choose the device that's best for you.

What Are Activity Trackers?

Activity trackers are portable electronic devices that give you information about your health. Some trackers are specialized. Pedometers, for example, record the number of steps you take and estimate the distance you travel. Other types of trackers and fitness sensors can provide you with heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, sleep details and much more, especially when used along with provided apps. If you're looking for location tracking devices and not to gather health-related data, consider handheld GPS units.

Smartwatches, GPS Running Watches, and Fitness Trackers

The line between smartwatches, GPS running watches, and fitness trackers can be blurry, as some features are common between the devices. However, there are differences. Smartwatches work in conjunction with apps on your smartphone, and while they may or may not offer fitness information, they often aren't water-resistant or waterproof like most fitness trackers. GPS running watches offer the most accurate distance and pace tracking, but are usually larger than the other types of devices. Trackers are stand-alone, smaller devices that provide you specifically with health-related data.

How to Choose the Right Fitness Tracker

There are a variety of features to consider when deciding on a fitness tracker. Most are at least water resistant, but if you plan to wear yours while showering or swimming, you'll want to make sure it's fully waterproof. Devices with GPS tracking give the most reliable information about distance when walking, biking, and running. Heart rate monitoring lets you track your pulse while you're exercising. Some devices also feature sleep tracking, which can detect the length and quality of your sleep.