Fitness bracelet

Today, more and more people choose to lead a healthy and sporty lifestyle. With the help of the latest technologies, a huge number of various, 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 record the indicators of some physical parameters of a person during active sports and during rest.

The fitness bracelet market 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 pedometer, models that calculate the distance traveled and calories burned over a certain period, and models with a “smart alarm” function for tracking the duration and completeness of sleep.

Fitness bracelets have a wide variety of designs. Basically, they look like bracelets that are worn on the wrist. The wide range of colors in which the bracelets are made, as well as their various shapes, allow you to simultaneously use them as a stylish accessory.

In addition, fitness bracelets differ in such characteristics as:

• the duration of the operating time;
• presence / absence of a display;
• the degree of waterproofing;
• battery life;
• presence / absence of backlight;
• data output method, etc.

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

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

Such a device, which has a "smart alarm" function, will be able to analyze the quantity and, most importantly, the quality of sleep.

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

In addition to the basic functions, the alarm function in the fitness bracelet is very convenient for many. Many, probably, in their lives, faced a situation when the next morning, after a seemingly long sleep, the state of health left much to be desired. A bracelet with an alarm function, based on the results of the data obtained and the analysis of sleep phases, determines the optimal time to end sleep and wakes up its wearer or signals the optimal time to fall asleep. Wristbands with an alarm function provide their wearer with excellent well-being after rest and the timely completion of all planned tasks.

TOFor the category of people who want to bring their figure back to normal with the help of diets, a bracelet is suitable, which includes the function of a personal nutritionist. He will tell his owner what food, in what quantity and during what period of time it is best to eat in order to achieve the set goal. In addition, the bracelet will promptly remind you to consume liquid.

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

Bracelets designed for active sports activities help their wearer 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, the intensity of the workout, the number of calories that must be worked out).

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

The huge range of fitness trackers also includes models for children.

Children's models are made mainly in the form of brightly colored bracelets with a dust and moisture resistant shell. Just like the adult models, some of them provide for the possibility of submersion 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 display information. With the help of such bracelets, you can also observe the child's physical activity during the day, for example, the distance that the child has walked in 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 tasks are completed on time, the child receives encouragement, which serves as a motivation for further actions.

Manufacturers of fitness bracelets have also taken care of the beautiful half of humanity. Along with the models with the most common design, such models have been created that are able to complement and decorate the image of a woman, while performing all the intended functions. Models made of various materials - metal, plastic and even wood, which can be worn both on the wrist and as a pendant or bracelet, will appeal to women who want to look fashionable and stylish.

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

• pedometer functions;
• sleep tracker;
• distance traveled tracker;
• calorie burner tracker.

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

The offered assortment of fitness bracelets also includes models with organizer functions, which have:

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

The ability to set various goals and monitor their achievement can be 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 a remote control for a player or control of a smartphone camera.

The shape and size of the fitness bracelets are designed for maximum comfort. The wearer can wear the fitness bracelet as an accessory either on the wrist or around the neck.

Now let's see how this small device can perform such a large number of functions, for 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 electrical 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 comes into contact with the plates, creating a three-dimensional picture of movement. Two built-in electrodes are used to determine the heart rate.

Some models also have a gyroscope that measures rotation and improves orientation. There are models equipped with an altimeter, which records the change in altitude over a certain period. 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 sleeping person's body. As soon as the device detects that a person is in a sleep phase suitable for awakening, a signal is triggered (usually this is not a loud and harsh sound, but vibration), and the person gradually wakes up.

Calories are calculated using a heart rate monitor and accelerometer. The heart rate monitor, when analyzing a person's heart activity, calculates the approximate number of calories burned during 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 consumed and consumed calories based on data entered by a person. The accuracy of the data produced by this analysis is constantly being improved by the developers.

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

Fitness bracelets are very easy and convenient to use. The owner will need to install a special application on his smartphone or iPhone, link 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 completing all these simple steps, you can use the bracelet, and the data received from it will be reflected on the smartphone.

Some of the most popular models from the Fitbit brand are Fitbit Surge, Fitbit Charge HR, Charge, Flex, One and Zip. All these models differ in 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 its range of features allows it to be considered a "smart" watch. In addition to measuring heart rate, steps, distance traveled, movement speed, energy expenditure, 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.
• Connection interface - 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 is dust / moisture resistant.
• Operating time in normal mode is about 7 days, in active mode - 10 hours.

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

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

• It can function as an alarm clock, counting calories burned, measuring distance, tracking sleep phases.
• The product has a heart rate monitor, step counter,
• Able to notify about calls and messages, and also has a clock.
• Connection interface - Bluetooth v 4.0.
• Has a display with LED dial.
• Working hours in normal mode - 7 days.

Fitbit Charge differs from previous models in that it does not have a heart rate monitor function, but it does have a function for counting floors climbed, both during descent and ascent.The Fitbit Charge model supports the function of counting steps, distance traveled and calories burned, has a clock and 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. Connection interface - Bluetooth v 4.0. The model is made in the form of a bracelet with a display. The housing is not waterproof. Working hours in normal mode are also 7 days.

The main functionality of the Fitbit Flex model is to track the physical activity of its owner. Fitbit Flex has a 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, track sleep phases, but, at the same time, it wakes up not when the deep sleep phase is completed, but in the time set by the owner.

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

Fitbit One has the ability to track distance traveled over time and calculate calories burned, just like Fitbit Charge can count floors and has sleep tracking. Informs about 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 by attaching it to a place convenient for the wearer. Operating time without recharging - up to 10 days.

FitBit Zip is the most budget-friendly of the above devices. It is powered by a battery that lasts about six months. FitBit Zip keeps track of 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 draw your attention to the Povit fitness tracker, model P-8134, which is in a very affordable price range. This model is equipped with the most essential 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 just wants to track and control his physical activity during the day, as well as maintain a stable weight, then models with basic functions are suitable for him: pedometer, heart rate monitor and calorie meter.

If we are talking about intensive training with the achievement of a certain result, then models with broader functionality are suitable, which allow not only to track their actions, but also to set tasks and the time for their completion.

When choosing, people who go in for swimming must 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 the size of the device and the length of its strap.

Of course, having a fitness bracelet on your wrist won't make you fit and fit overnight. But with a successful and optimal choice of it, you will receive an irreplaceable and loyal assistant, with the help of which you can achieve your goals.

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

Simple and easy to use, they were liked by both young active people who purposefully go in for sports and are interested in achieving results and their constant improvement in this direction, and older 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 entertainment.

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

Some users note some inaccuracies in the results obtained by the fitness bracelet. As a rule, this occurs due to the fact that the device mistakenly recognizes human actions.

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