A fitness tracker is a gadget that can be worn by an individual throughout the day to keep track of various body parameters.
Any wearable fitness tracker needs the person using it to input physiological details such as their weight, height, gender to help the tracker make better sense of the data that it collects.
This personalization helps in processing the data generated by the fitness tracker. There are a number of sensors which may be added to a tracker, but most commonly motion sensors are used to determine body movements.
A wearable tracker continuously senses the movements of the body on a 3 axis accelerometer. The data is recorded all the time it is worn and powered up, which enables the tracker to trace if the individual is walking forward, running fast, or even standing still.
All this data is stored in the tracker for further processing. Processing occurs when the data is transferred to the software associated with the fitness tracker on the smartphone or laptop with which it is synced.
Since the individual has already shared personal details with the software, the data collected is run through a personalized algorithm. This makes it possible for the software to detect what the different movements recorded actually imply.
It categorizes the movements into different activities and then generates more information based on these details. These are usually stored under different headings in the fitness tracker app.
When the individual taps the app a wide variety of information is available from the processed data, ready for reading. The app lets the individual know how many steps have been taken, at what speed, the pace of the individual, and even the number of calories likely to have been burnt. The app allows the individual to interact with the information in a user friendly manner.
A fitness tracker can help an individual in self-monitoring their activities. It helps in setting fitness goals such as meeting a basic regular exercise activity goal, burning a specific number of calories in the day, and even drinking a set number of glasses of water.
There are a number of options in the app. It can reinforce motivation by showing the individual exactly how much of a goal has been met. It is easy to use and very convenient to measure different parameters.
Think about it. An individual may have the goal of losing five pounds in a month. Now this goal is split up into different heads by the app using the algorithms available. There will be a target for calories to be consumed each day, as opposed to calories that need to be burnt.
The app will then figure out how much of each exercise needs to be done in the day. Now daily targets are available to the individual at a single swipe of the smartphone.
By meeting these targets the individual will eventually lose weight. The constant ability to monitor how much of a target has been met is a good motivator for the individual engaged in the weight loss process.
Add in the ability to share this progress on social media sites with their family and friends using the app. The constant positive attention and feedback is sure to help the individual stay the course till the target is achieved.
Fitness trackers worn by individuals can also help in research studies being conducted on a larger number of people. The number of individuals who can be monitored in a laboratory is limited, but with the help of wearable fitness trackers the researchers can study the data collected for a much larger target group.
The alternative might be to rely on clinical interviews or activity logs kept by the volunteers – as some of this would be subjective information, it could be less accurate for analyses than the directly obtained data from fitness trackers.
The collection of the data would also be much faster as the whole process would be automated. There is some scope for error when using fitness trackers that use sensors. Before these trackers are used in actual experimental studies, they need to be validated and checked for reliability.
There will always be some margin of error that will need to be addressed in any scientific study. However using these wearable fitness trackers can make it easier to collect large amounts of data for research. The gadgets can revolutionize the way scientific fitness studies are conducted.
ISU researchers study accuracy of fitness trackers
In a world where engineering science is constantly evolving, fitness trackers have become our personal health companions, overhauling the way we monitor our well-being. If you’re new to the world of fitness trackers and wondering what they are and how they work, this is the right point to arrive at. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you’d like to know about fitness trackers and how they can benefit you.
History of this health-empowering gadget
The progress of a portable gadget tracking steps and later, calories dives into history’s tunnel for centuries, not even decades. Italian multitalented genius Leonardo da Vinci conceived an elaborate device potent enough to gauge steps for military purposes. Then, in the 1670s, the cunning appliance came to scientific vision in France. In 1780, Abraham-Louis Perrelet, a Swiss watchmaker, crafted one of the first pedometers. It used a spring-suspended lever arm to tally steps and distance while walking. In 1820, another notable watchmaker named Abraham-Louis Breguet fashioned a pedometer and stopwatch. Only before decisive final presentation of the mechanical pedometer by american inventor Thomas Jefferson, the gadget was previously elaborated by Swiss in late 19th century.
Closer to modern days, more precisely in 1960s, happened the core event in our story. Dr. Yoshiro Hatano chairing Tokyo’s big clinic began so concerned about the Japanese overall health that he motivated and participated in the invention of a wearable pedometer in concert with engineer Juri Kato to combat human obesity. This way, the problem of exercising was first solved in this smart island country, later on – in the whole world.
The wonder was called “manpo-kei”, “10,000 steps meter”.
That’s where the universal rule of 10 000 steps daily derives from.
To continue the line, WHO states that annually 38 million people die from non-communicable and cardiovascular illnesses.
It’s a horrible number, isn’t it? Is there a simple but workable outlet?
Look at even more stats: with physical activity and training bringing significant gains for our body and brain, leaving apart such fantastic outcomes as avoiding and coping with many non-communicable diseases (cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers), our morning and regular exercises focus minds and diminish symptoms of depression and anxiousness.
Now, what is this health tracking device, this magic clock watching over human activity?
Observing Your Health State
At its core, a pulse fitness tracker is a wearable tool designed to observe and trail various aspects of your health and active movements. Its primary goal is to set you up with meritable grasps of your motion, thus helping you bolster your overall well-being.
Summing up, what does a fitness tracker do? Here are principal functionalities and merits of the gadget:
Fitness tracker layers: what’s inside the method
Let’s delve into the technology that powers these health-tracking devices. Now, fitness tracking gadgets consist of multiple layers, each owing its specific detectors and functions. Understanding these will give you a better grasp of how the devices work together to empower us with valuable health insights.
1. Sensing Layer: The core of every tracker is its sensing layer collecting a whole volume of data about our body and movements. The layer often includes speed sensors, heart rate monitors, temperature detectors, being a fitness tracker constant observers, saving your beats, steps, and breath.
2. MAC Layer: Just like how communication between devices requires rules and protocols, this layer manages access to the network of sensors and controls the timing and order of data transmissions.
3. Network Layer: Think of the network layer as the bridge connecting your fitness tracker to a smartphone or computer, handling the transmission of data from the wearable to a chosen platform, dedicated fitness app or a cloud-based service. Here comes the GPS functionality, as well, allowing your tracker to map your routing and follow positioning.
4. Processing and Storage Layer embodies the collected data. Equipped with a small yet powerful computer that operates the raw data from the detectors, it converts numbers and parameters into meaningful health grasps, such as step and heart rate counts, trends, and sleep.
5. Service Layer: The service layer is the gateway to a world of features and functions. With it, you operate goals, visualize stats, receive notifications, access other relevant services. It’s the interface that empowers you to make informed decisions.
In essence, your fitness tracker operates seamlessly across these layers, transforming data into actionable information that empowers you to lead a healthier lifestyle. The sensors capture, the MAC layer organizes, the network layer communicates, the processing and storage layer analyzes, and the service layer presents it all to you in an accessible and user-friendly manner.
From another perspective, functioning of a health-tracking bracelet can be studied based on its core components. Here is the list disclosure, mostly already described above:
As you embark on your health tracker journey guessing what is a fitness tracker, you’ll discover a diverse range of options tailored to suit various lifestyles and preferences. Let’s explore some common types of fitness trackers and their unique features:
Why fitness trackers are invaluable for busy individuals
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for health and fitness can be challenging. This is where fitness trackers step in, offering a lifeline for your hectic schedule, altogether giving a hand to maintain your fit. Here’s how they can make a significant impact:
Efficient time management: Hard-workers often struggle to allocate time for exercise. Fitness bands help optimize workouts by providing real-time data on steps taken, calories burned, and heart rate. This ensures that every minute of exercise counts, making the most of limited free time.
Goal setting and motivation: For many, setting fitness goals can be daunting. Fitness trackers simplify this process by allowing users to establish achievable targets, such as a daily step count or calorie burn. These devices then provide continuous feedback and motivation to help users stay on track, even during packed workdays.
Customized workouts: Fitness tracking gadgets can recommend personalized workout routines based on an individual’s goals and fitness level. This tailoring ensures that workouts are efficient and effective, catering to specific needs without requiring extensive planning.
Data-driven progress: Women focused on fitness and weight management can benefit immensely from the detailed data fitness trackers provide. These devices track changes in weight, body composition, and activity levels over time, allowing users to adjust their routines and dietary choices accordingly.
Watching over health: Beyond physical activity, fitness trackers often include features for monitoring sleep patterns and stress levels. These aspects are vital for maintaining overall health, particularly for women balancing work, family, and fitness goals.
Convenience: Fitness trackers are wearable and discreet, fitting seamlessly into any daily routine. Their convenience encourages consistent use, ensuring that users stay engaged with their health and fitness objectives.
Designed to enhance our health and fitness journey, the final step is to find the perfect fitness bracelet for your needs. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Closing word
Knowing now how does a fitness tracker work, it would be quite easy now to select one-of-a-kind fitness tracking bracelet. May be you prioritize style, innovation, or community engagement, there’s a quality gadget designed to align with the most demanding taste.
By harnessing advanced sensors and technology, this device provides valuable insights into a person’s well-being, helping you make grounded decisions. Whether you’re an avid athlete or simply looking to lead a healthier lifestyle, a fitness band can be your trusted companion in the most sophisticated journey.
Consult with CANYON excellent quality PC smartbands and smartwatch accessories for your advanced health and beauty track.