You can monitor just about everything these days with wearable technology. If you’ve been wanting to track your physical activity but you’re not completely sold on a wearable fitness tracker, we can help you out.
One of the most common things tracked by wearable fitness trackers is the number of steps you take a day. Whether you’re wanting to achieve a daily step goal or you’re just curious about how much you move during the day, understanding how wearable fitness trackers measure your steps can provide your metrics is the key to success.
What is the difference between a smartwatch and an activity watch?
Before we get into the specifics of how your watch tracks your steps, it’s important to know the difference between smartwatches and activity watches. Smartwatches go beyond just activity tracking and have a range of different features like notifications, apps and are able to connect with your smartphone.
Activity trackers on the other hand are primarily focused on tracking your activity, your health and your fitness levels. Activity trackers typically track steps, calories burned, heart rate and GPS tracking for sports activities.
How to choose the right sports watch for your activity
When you’re choosing a sports watch, you’ll want to consider the types of activities you regularly undertake. For runners, watches with GPS accuracy, heart rate monitoring and running metrics might be your best bet. For swimmers though, waterproofing and swim tracking are key features to consider. If you’re a keen hiker, you might want to prioritise altimeter readings.
Tailoring your choice based on the type of activities you do most often is a great way to ensure you get the most relevant data and features from your device.
Are my steps recorded accurately?
The accuracy of your step counting can really depend on the type of fitness tracker or smart watch you have. Most devices are incredibly accurate and they use an accelerometer to detect the motion patterns of walking and running. This is then converted into step counts.
There are some factors that impact the accuracy of your step count, things like device placement – whether you wear it on your waist or your wrist and user movement patterns can impact the overall accuracy.
Modern devices that are on the market today provide a reasonably accurate step count for everyday use and fitness tracking purposes, especially for regular individuals.
Does a smartwatch help to achieve your fitness goals?
Being able to see tangible data about your fitness goals and steps could encourage you to reach your goals more quickly. You’re provided with real-time feedback on activity levels, heart rate zones and workout progress and they can also help you to stay motivated by seeing the progress you are making.
Some smart watches also allow you to set your own personal goals like activity goals or step targets so that you can ensure you are doing consistent physical activity. You can also integrate your smart watch with apps on your phone so you can see how you’re tracking and to keep you accountable.
If you’re looking for a fitness tracker that really does it all, we have the perfect fit for you at Ryze. Track your fitness goals, your steps and keep yourself motivated and accountable when you purchase a smart watch or sports watch with us at Ryze.
To find your perfect smart watch you can contact a member of our team for guidance. Unlock your full potential and start your fitness journey off on the right foot when you have a Ryze smart watch on your arm!