Technology surrounds modern humans. Daily, the average person can spend hours on a screen, scrolling through a variety of content. Most people own cell phones, tablets, and computers. Some people also have smart appliances and televisions, digital doorbells, and devices they can talk to [i.e., Alexa].
Additionally, science is advancing medical technology at a breakneck pace. CPAP machines report directly to your doctor’s office, allowing the machine to be adjusted remotely. Blood sugar monitors keep track of glucose levels in real-time on a cellphone, and the report can be sent to your doctor.
In recent years, wearable technology use has been rising globally. The estimated market value is over $70 billion US dollars and is thought to increase by 16% by 2030. Up to 44% of Americans use a wearable health tracking device, with Black and Hispanic populations using more technology than other social groups.
Why Use Fitness Technologies
You aren’t alone if you are new to wearables and other fitness-supportive tech. Those who live in rural areas, have lower incomes, are less educated, or lack reliable internet may have limited access to these technologies. Even with this in mind, considering the purchase of a wearable fitness device might be worthwhile.
Modern technology (tech), including wearable devices, can be helpful for various reasons. This includes:
- Convenience – This is good for people who can’t make in-person visits due to scheduling conflicts. It also lets people track more of their health from the comfort of their own homes.
- Lower cost – Though the cost of buying tech may be prohibitive, it can be used to track many different health metrics. Using these devices can make healthcare easier and more affordable. Digital information can be sent directly to your doctor before you even step foot in their office for a visit. One study found a virtual trainer was comparable to a human trainer and was more cost-effective.
- 24-hour availability – Wearable devices give real-time feedback moment by moment for as long as you are wearing them. This makes around-the-clock monitoring/intervention possible.
- Consistency – The same apps or therapies are available to everyone with access to these devices.
Fitness Tech Options
The market is flooded with different tech options, and more are always launching. Download the tech’s app from the app store and easily link the device to your phone. Below are a few of the more commonplace versions of these devices.
- Fitness Trackers – Fitbit made such technology popular. These are often worn on the wrist and began as simple pedometers (step trackers). Now, they record fitness data as well as steps. Fitness trackers do not permit phone calls from the device or integrate with other apps.
- Smartwatches – These are the most used form of smart technology. They share similar functions with fitness trackers. However, smartwatches link to your phone and allow for customization through apps and data integration.
- Smart Jewelry – Smart jewelry currently includes necklaces, rings, and bracelets (most commonly). They can track fitness and send notifications, which is why they are quickly becoming the first choice for personal safety.
- Smart Glasses – These glasses typically have built-in cameras to take pictures. Great for navigation and search functions, smart glasses often display cardinal directions and can prevent users from getting lost.
- Wearable Medical Devices (wearables) – Wearables track preferred health information, and alerts you to changes. These devices are often blood-glucose trackers, heart-rate monitors, or other medical tools. Hearing aids can use artificial intelligence (AI) programs to filter out background noise.
- Head-Mounted Displays – Also known as HMDs, these are a bit bulkier than most wearable computing devices. They attach to the user’s head and provide a virtual display. Options include virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), or mixed reality (MR). Portable, wearable options or all-in-one devices for home use are available.
The Potential Downside to Wearables
There’s little industrial oversight currently, so it can be hard to tell what’s helpful and what’s not. With little or no guidelines it is hard to determine which technologies are most effective. Research is still ongoing. The durability of the technology and concerns about user privacy are also considerations. Watch out for companies with a lot of hype, potentially overselling what they offer. Do some investigating to ensure the wearable and its apps will work well for you and your lifestyle.
What’s Best for You?
As always, talk with your healthcare provider to determine which wearables, devices, and/or apps might match your health goals. Be sure to select a program for your current fitness level. If you work with a physical therapist or personal trainer, they may also have some good recommendations.
Resources:
Auxier, Brooke, et al. 2020. “Parents’ Attitudes – And Experiences – Related to Digital Technology.” https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2020/07/28/parents-attitudes-and-experiences-related-to-digital-technology/
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Mois G, Washington TR, Beer JM. 2019 “The Influence of Technology on Quality of Life and Aging in Place.” Innov Aging; 3(Suppl 1): S330. doi: 10.1093/geroni/igz038.1201. PMCID: PMC6840939.
National Institute of Mental Health. N.D. “Technology and the Future of Mental Health Treatment.” Revised Aug. 2024. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/technology-and-the-future-of-mental-health-treatment.
Schwartz K, Ganster FM, Tran US. 2023. “Mindfulness-Based Mobile Apps and Their Impact on Well-Being in Nonclinical Populations: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.” J Med Internet Res; 25: e44638. doi: 10.2196/44638 PMID: 37540550 PMCID: 10439468