Purchasing a Fitness Tracker on Black Friday: Hype or Health Investment?

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

As Black Friday approaches, enticing consumers with deals on fitness trackers like Fitbits, Apple Watches, Garmin, and more, the question arises: Can these devices truly be the catalyst for a healthier, more active lifestyle?

A study published in The Lancet aimed to answer this question. The research, titled "Effectiveness of Physical Activity Trackers to Increase Physical Activity and Improve Health," conducted a comprehensive analysis called an umbrella review. The researchers objective was to discern the efficacy of fitness trackers in mitigating sedentary behaviors. This effort resulted in including 39 studies that involved almost 164,000 individuals from diverse demographics.

What they found:

Increased Activity: Individuals who utilized fitness trackers experienced a notable uptick in daily steps, adding approximately 1800 more steps each day and incorporating an extra 40 minutes of walking into their routine. This suggests a positive influence on physical activity.

Weight Management and Improved Fitness: The research revealed that those engaging with these devices achieved a reduction of around 1 kilogram in body weight, accompanied by an enhancement in fitness levels denoted by a standardized mean difference of 0.3.

Health Indicators: The trackers indicated potential improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels, showcasing a subtle yet positive impact on physiological markers.

Psychosocial Well-being: Beyond the physical realm, there were indications that using a fitness tracker could contribute to an improved sense of well-being. This encompassed alleviating pain and enhancing overall quality of life, albeit to a modest extent.

In the battle against physical inactivity, wearable activity trackers emerge as promising allies. These devices offer an affordable and user-friendly solution to the global health crisis. The Lancet study provides a compelling case for the efficacy of activity trackers, encouraging individuals across diverse age groups and health conditions to embrace these devices as valuable tools on their journey towards improved health and well-being.

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