Fitness bracelet

Today, an increasing number of people prefer to lead a healthy and athletic lifestyle. With the help of the latest technologies, a huge number of diverse, multifunctional devices have been created that can help a person in organizing his life, including not only its active period, but also the time of rest.

Fitness bracelets or so-called “smart” bracelets are designed to fix indicators of some physical parameters of a person with active sports and leisure.

The market for fitness bracelets is represented by a huge number of models that differ in their purpose, characteristics, and design. There are the simplest models that have basic basic functions - a heart rate monitor and a pedometer, models that calculate the distance traveled over a certain period and calories burned, and models with a smart alarm function to track the duration and usefulness of sleep.

The design of fitness bracelets is very diverse. Basically, they look like bracelets that are worn on the arm. The large color scheme in which the bracelets are made, as well as their various forms, allow them to be simultaneously used as a stylish accessory.

In addition, fitness bracelets differ in such characteristics as:

• length of time;
• the presence / absence of a display;
• degree of water tightness;
• battery life;
• the presence / absence of backlight;
• data output method, etc.

Not every person who wants to maintain their physical fitness has the opportunity to regularly visit the fitness room and engage under the constant supervision of a trainer. A large number of people go in for sports on their own. Someone runs in the mornings, someone plays, for example, soccer / volleyball, part of the female population attends dances, yoga and Pilates classes, and older people prefer walking.

In order to have an idea of ​​the amount of loads received and the reaction of the human body to them, just such devices are used. A fitness bracelet (or fitness tracker) counts the steps taken by its owner and the corresponding distance, counts calories burned, and also has the ability to measure a person’s heart rate, pressure, temperature, and sweating.

A similar device with the “smart alarm” function will be able to analyze the quantity and, most importantly, the quality of sleep.

Let us consider in more detail the models of fitness bracelets created for various categories of users. Smart models record various data that is transmitted to a computer (either a tablet or phone) and analyzed.

In addition to the basic functions, the alarm function in a fitness bracelet is very convenient for many. Many, probably, faced with a situation in their life when the next morning, after a seemingly long enough sleep, their health left much to be desired. The bracelet with the alarm function according to the results of the data obtained and analysis of the phases of sleep determines the optimal time to complete sleep and wakes up its owner or signals the optimal time for falling asleep. Bracelets with an alarm function provide their owner with excellent health after a rest and timely execution of all scheduled activities.

TOCategories of people who want to bring their figure back to normal with the help of diets will use a bracelet, which includes the functions of a personal nutritionist. He will tell his owner what kind of food, in what quantity and in what period of time it is best to eat to achieve this goal. In addition, the bracelet will promptly remind you of the need for fluid intake.

Some smart bracelets can perform the functions of an organizer - the bracelet will notify you of calls and messages, remind you of upcoming meetings and monitor the status of your email.

Bracelets designed for active sports, help their owner to correctly regulate the level of physical activity, taking into account the data received. Also, sports bracelets serve as a motivating factor, since they provide for the possibility of setting goals (a certain load for a set time, training intensity, the number of calories that must be worked out).

With the help of fitness bracelets for swimming, it is possible to determine the swimming method, count the number of pools covered, total distance traveled, pulse, calorie consumption. These fitness bracelets are waterproof and can withstand diving for a large number of meters.

In a huge assortment of fitness trackers, models are also provided for children.

Children's models are made mainly in the form of bright-colored bracelets with dust and moisture protection. As well as adult models, some of them provide for the possibility of immersion in water to a depth of about 50 meters.

The bracelets are equipped with a display. The menu allows you to choose in which mode to reflect information. With the help of such bracelets, you can also observe the physical activity of the child during the day, for example, the distance the child traveled during the day.

The bracelet is controlled using a smartphone, where you can not only record the results, but also set new tasks for the child that must be completed within a certain time. If all the tasks are completed on time, the child receives a reward, which serves as a motivation for further actions.

Manufacturers of fitness bracelets also took care of the fair half of humanity. Along with models with the most ordinary design, those are created that are able to complement and decorate the image of a woman, while performing all the prescribed functions. Models of various materials - metal, plastic and even wooden, which can be worn both on the wrist and in the form of a pendant or bracelet will appeal to women who want to look fashionable and stylish.

Most models of fitness bracelets have approximately the same set of basic functions. These include:

• pedometer function;
• sleep tracker;
• distance tracker;
• calorie tracker.

Fitness bracelets are also able to measure some physical indicators, for example, pulse, pressure, body temperature at rest and for comparison during physical activity. For people who need to control their weight, a fitness bracelet with the function of monitoring the diet and the ability to calculate the energy value of each consumed food product will be useful.

The proposed range of fitness bracelets also includes models with organizer functions, which have:

• built-in alarm clock;
• the calendar;
• notify their owner of all incoming calls and messages;
• remind about planned events.

The ability to set various goals and monitor their achievement can serve as a good motivation for the owner of the bracelet. In addition, models have been created that additionally have functions that are not directly related to their main purpose, but nevertheless are a pleasant addition to them - for example, with the function of the remote control of the player or camera control of the smartphone.

The shape and size of the fitness bracelets are designed for the most convenient use. The wearer can wear a fitness bracelet as an accessory, either on the wrist or neck.

Now let's see how this small device is capable of performing such a large number of functions, for the performance of which not so long ago it was necessary to use several devices.

Most modern devices today are equipped with a 3-axis accelerometer, the task of which is to track the movement and acceleration of the device in three directions. The accelerometer consists of two small electric boards with an electric charge, a counterweight is installed between the boards. If there is no movement, the counterweight is in the middle. When moving, the counterweight contacts the plates, creating a three-dimensional picture of the movement. Two built-in electrodes are used to determine the heart rate.

Some models also have a gyroscope that measures rotation and serves to improve orientation. There are models equipped with an altimeter that records a change in height over a period of time. The indicators of all sensors are summarized and analyzed.

The “smart alarm” function, which is present in a large number of fitness bracelets, is implemented as follows: using sensors, including the already mentioned accelerometer and heart rate monitor, the device analyzes the state of the body of a sleeping person. As soon as the device detects that the person is in a suitable phase of sleep for awakening, a signal is triggered (usually it is not a loud and harsh sound, but a vibration), and the person gradually wakes up.

Calories are calculated using a heart rate monitor and an accelerometer. The heart rate monitor, when analyzing a person’s cardiac activity, calculates the approximate number of calories burned during his physical activity. The accelerometer records physical activity. For these purposes, additional information about the owner is also required: gender, age, height, weight.

In addition, special software has been developed that can calculate the difference between the amount of calories consumed and consumed based on data entered by a person. The accuracy of the data generated by this analysis is constantly being improved by the developers.

The algorithm for processing information obtained using sensors, as well as its statistical presentation, depends on the settings established by the manufacturer of each specific model.

Fitness bracelets are very simple and convenient to use. The owner will need to install a special application on his smartphone or iPhone, connect these two devices with each other and synchronize. For this purpose, some models require the creation of an account and the use of bluetooth. After performing all these simple steps, you can use the bracelet, and the data received from it will be reflected on the smartphone.

One of the most popular Fitbit brand models are Fitbit Surge, Fitbit Charge HR, Charge, Flex, One and Zip. All these models are distinguished by their individual design, set of functions and price. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Fitbit Surge is the most expensive model of the above, as the set of its functions allows us to consider it as a “smart” watch. Besides the functions of measuring heart rate, number of steps, distance traveled, speed, energy expenditure, amount of fat burned, activity time and sleep tracking, this device also displays information about incoming calls and messages.

Distinctive features of this model are:

• Built-in GPS module with which the owner can track his route.
• Compatible with Apple iOS and Android.
• The connection interface is Bluetooth v 4.0.
• There is a special application for synchronization with a smartphone.
• The tracker is made in the form of a bracelet with a plastic display.
• The metal case has dust / moisture protection.
• Operating time in normal mode is about 7 days, in active mode - 10 hours.

An overview of the main features of Fitbit Surge can be seen in the following video:

Fitbit Charge HR ranks second in price after Fitbit Surge. This model has almost the same functionality as the previous one:

• It can perform the function of an alarm clock, counting calories burned, measuring distance, tracking sleep phases.
• The product has a heart rate monitor, step counter,
• Able to notify of calls and messages, and also has a clock.
• The connection interface is Bluetooth v 4.0.
• Has a display with LED dial.
• Normal operation time is 7 days.

Fitbit Charge differs from previous models in that it does not have the function of a heart rate monitor, but there is a function of counting floors covered, both during descent and ascent.The Fitbit Charge model supports the function of counting steps, distance traveled and calories burned, has a clock and an alarm function, and also tracks sleep phases.

The device also broadcasts information about incoming calls. Fitbit Charge can work with smartphones running Android, IOS and even Windows Phone 8.1. The connection interface is Bluetooth v 4.0. The model is made in the form of a bracelet with a display. The case is not waterproof. Normal operation time is also 7 days.

The main functionality of the Fitbit Flex model is to track the physical activity of its owner. Fitbit Flex has the function of counting steps taken (and the result is calculated with very high accuracy) and calories burned, the tracker can monitor the balance of water in the body, monitor sleep phases, but it does not wake up when the deep sleep phase is completed, but time set by the owner.

This model is compatible with Android, iOS, Windows Phone and connects via Bluetooth v 4.0. The model is made in the form of a bracelet, there is no display. The battery life is 5 days.

Fitbit One has the ability to monitor the distance traveled for a certain time and calculate calories burned, just like Fitbit Charge can calculate floors and has a sleep tracking function. Reports incoming calls and messages.

Compatible with Apple iOS and Android, connects via Bluetooth v 4.0. This model differs from the previous ones in that it is made in the form of a key fob with a display. Has a clip for fastening. Thus, it can be worn on clothes, clinging it to a place convenient for the owner. Operating time without recharging - up to 10 days.

FitBit Zip is the most budget option of the devices presented above. It works from a battery, the life of which is about six months. FitBit Zip counts the number of steps, calories burned per day and the activity of its owner. Compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, OS X, connection also via Bluetooth v 4.0. All received data is displayed.

I would also like to pay attention to the Povit fitness tracker, model P-8134, which is in a very affordable price category. This model is equipped with the most necessary functions for maintaining health:

• calorie consumption counter;
• sleep monitoring function;
• pedometer.

The model is also made in the form of a bracelet with a display.

To select a suitable model of a fitness tracker, its potential owner must first determine for what purpose he wants to purchase it. If a person wants to simply monitor and control his physical activity throughout the day, as well as keep his weight stable, then models that have the basic functions of a pedometer, heart rate monitor, and calorie meter are suitable for him.

If we are talking about intensive training with a certain result, then models with wider functionality will be suitable, allowing not only to monitor their actions, but also to set tasks and the time of their completion.

People who are engaged in swimming, when choosing, be sure to pay attention to whether the bracelet has sufficient protection against moisture. It is recommended to pay attention to the presence of the display, as well as to the size of the device and the length of its strap.

Of course, having a fitness bracelet on your arm will not make you athletic and healthy quickly. But with a successful and optimal choice, you will receive an indispensable and loyal assistant, with which you can achieve your goals.

Most people who own fitness bracelets note that these modest-sized devices have a significant impact on their daily lives.

Simple and easy to use, they came to the taste of young active people who are purposefully involved in sports and are interested in achieving results and their continuous improvement in this direction, and elderly people who monitor their health and want to stay in good shape for a long time. According to the reviews of the female part of the population, they are pleased with the variety in terms of design and colors of the proposed models, and for children this device can also become a favorite pastime.

It is also worth noting the individual problems that some users face.Sometimes bracelet owners have difficulty synchronizing the bracelet with a smartphone (iPhone, tablet, computer). In most cases, this is due to the lack of the necessary applications and is easily solved by their installation.

Some users note some errors in the results obtained by the fitness bracelet. As a rule, this occurs because the device erroneously recognizes human actions.

Currently, the direction associated with the development and production of this sports accessory is actively developing, and new, improved models that satisfy the most demanding requirements are appearing on the market.