Fitness trackers are a popular workout tool that helps people set fitness goals, track their progress, and get healthier. How can they help chiropractic patients though? Find out what you need to know about fitness trackers.
It takes more than the tech to get you fit.
All the flashy, high tech bells and whistles in the world won’t roll you out of bed in the morning and place you on the treadmill. No fancy wristband will get you up and moving, getting exercise and getting fit. The tech is cool. It is fun and exciting, but it won’t get you fit. Only you can do that.
So if you are getting a fitness tracker with the belief that it is going to be some kind of magic bullet, that just won’t happen. It is great as a buddy, a tool, a nifty gadget that may help motivate you and help you achieve your goals. In the end, though, you are the one driving that car. You are in control.
Is a fitness tracker for you?
There are so many fitness trackers on the market with an almost endless list of features. First, you need to ask yourself, “Do I even need a fitness tracker?” If you answered “Yes,” finding the one that is right for you takes a bit of research. Look for features that work for you and the activities you will be pursing.
For instance, if you enjoy water-based activities you might want a waterproof model. There are also data limits, screen sizes, heart rate tracking options. Do you prefer a clip on or wrist model?
Before making your purchase, take time to research all of the features that are available to you. Decide what you like. Most importantly, decide what features would best help you meet your fitness goals.
How to get the most out of your fitness tracker.
Once you have your fitness tracker you will want to make a plan to ensure that you get the most out of it. Try these tips to make your fitness tracker work its best for you.
Identify clear cut goals. When you begin your fitness quest, first decide upon your goals. It is a good idea to record your stats at the beginning and update them every month. Recording this data will allow you to see your improvements. You’ll track how many more steps you are taking or how much weight you’ve lost, for example.
Set attainable benchmarks. Benchmarks help you along as you work toward your goal. Make them attainable and still present a challenge. If weight loss is your key, set benchmarks for every two months. Set benchmarks for a certain number of steps in a given time. Or, a certain number of workouts each week. When you reach a benchmark, celebrate a little.
Wear it on your non-dominant wrist. The Journal, Medical and Science in Sports and Exercise published a study that revealed participants who wore fitness trackers on their wrists throughout the day found that they were more accurate when worn on the non-dominant wrist. The theory is that the non-dominant wrist moves less, giving a more accurate reading.
Calibrate your tracker to match your stride. Not everyone has the same stride. You may be tall or short. Do you take longer or shorter strides? Regardless, you’ll get the most out of your fitness tracker by calibrating your stride. Most trackers will provide instructions for doing the calibration. It is well worth taking the time to complete it.
Incorporate other apps to boost your efforts. Many fitness trackers recommend other apps to help you meet your goals. These often sync with your tracker. You can also look for apps on your own that can help meet your specific goals. Some app ideas include food and weight lifting tracking. Other apps use your phone’s GPS to provide more accurate measurements on your runs, walks, or bike rides.
The more fit you are the better your health will typically be. Fitness trackers can help you reach your goals. When used in conjunction with Chiropractic care you’ll experience a greater level of health and well-being.
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