In fact, fitness trackers are so common that it is estimated one in 10 Americans over the age of 18 own one, based on estimates from ABI research.
Obesity is a growing epidemic in our country and fitness trackers could play a part in combating that. Studies show that people who wear fitness trackers are 40 percent more likely to be active, according to Fitbit Wellness research.
If you would like to give the gift of health this season, here are five great devices that people of all fitness levels would enjoy.
Polar Loop 2 – $119.95
The Polar Loop 2 is one of the best “all-around” devices. At its core, the Loop is a step counter, but it also tracks sleep and activity level. The Loop looks at five different levels of intensity for activity – resting, sitting, low, medium and high. The Loop then takes those intensity levels and helps you set a personalized goal to shoot for every day. While this tracker does not have a LCD screen, it does have smart notifications available.
Specs
- Step counter
- Activity tracker
- Sleep monitor
- Smart notifications
- LED indicator
- Bluetooth smart
UP4 by Jawbone – $149.99 – $199.99
Not only is Jawbone’s newest fitness tracker a hit but the app it pairs with, “UP,” is rated one of the best fitness apps of 2015. Together the UP4 and UP provide a robust way to track your health. The UP4 has activity tracking, sleep tracking, the ability to log food, a health coach and smart notification. Additionally, the UP4 has a built-in heart rate monitor that looks at both your resting and passive heart rates, which gives users a complete look at their heart health. Also new to the UP4 is the ability to connect it to an American Express card. Users will be able make easy payments at participating retailers with nothing more than the flick of a wrist.
Specs
- Activity trackers
- Sleep monitor
- Smart notifications
- Heart monitoring
- LED indicator
- Bluetooth 4.0
Moov Now – $79.99
Even though Moov Now is one of the most basic looking trackers on the market, it is one of the most advanced technologically. Moov Now has nine motion sensors on it, tracking a person’s movements in 3D. Using that information, the Moov Now can analyze your form and technique and then audibly coach you when you’re running, cycling, swimming or even cardio boxing. For example, when you strap the Moov Now to your ankle for running, the device can tell you how your stride is or if your foot impact is too hard. The Moov Now is more than just a step tracker and instead is a wearable coach any multi-sport junkie would enjoy.
Specs
- Sport specific metrics
- Sleep monitor
- 3D motion sensors
- 3rd party heart rate monitor support
- Waterproof
- 6 month battery life
Microsoft Band 2 – $249.99
After the success of Microsoft’s first band, there is now a second generation band available just in time for the holidays. The Microsoft Band 2 tracks heart rate, steps, stairs climbed, calorie burn and sleep quality. It also has built-in GPS mapping which tracks your course be it running, biking or even your golf course route without having to bring a phone along. The device has a built-in heart rate monitor. The Microsoft Band can also keep you connected with smart notifications for email, calendar events text, call alerts or social updates.
Specs
- Basic, curved LCD screen
- Activity tracker
- Sleep monitor
- Built-in heart rate monitor and GPS
- Smart notifications
- Guided workouts
- Microphone for taking voice notes
Moto 360 Sport – Price TBD
Another great option for the fitness junkie in your life is the Moto 360 Sport. It has all the basic functionality of a smartwatch such as smart notifications, LCD screen and phone call capability. Similar to the Microsoft Band, it also has built-in GPS, which allows you to utilize RunKeeper and other run tracking apps without having to carry your smartphone. The Moto 360 sport has a built-in heart rate monitor for accurate calorie counting. The watch can also energize your workout by wirelessly playing your favorite tunes. Additionally, the watch syncs up seamlessly with Moto Body, a health app that accurately measures speed, distance, pace, calorie burn and more.
Specs
- Motorola AnyLight full color display (hybrid watch face display)
- Smart notifications
- Built-in GPS and heart rate monitor
- 4 GB storage
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Wi-fi
These smartwatches are a great gift for anyone on your list, whether they are a tried and true athlete or someone looking to boost their physical fitness in the New Year.
