Workout technology is changing the way people do exercise. It allows us to put more thought behind our movement and come up with a strategy for our next steps. This can make a big difference when you are exercising for weight management!
Workout Technology: The Possibilities are Vast!
When most people think of everyday technology, they imagine stillness. Gadgets and gizmos such as televisions, smart phones, tablets, laptops and gaming systems keep us glued to a screen and staying idle. This is why technology is often associated with sedentary lifestyles.
We should all recognize the benefits in “unplugging,” but we don’t have to limit technology to its “standard” uses! In fact, technology can be used as a motivator to get fit and aid in behavior change. It can also help us stay organized and track our progress as we go.
Not sure what we mean? Consider these examples of workout technology and discover how they can help you exercise smarter, not harder.
Heart Rate Monitors
This device is typically worn around your chest during exercise to show you how hard you are working. It comes with a watch that displays your maximum heart rate, your target training range and how many calories you’ve burned.
If you are doing cardio and interval training, a heart rate monitor can also help you monitor the intensity of your workout. You can create specific intervals using the training zones based off your maximum heart rate.
Fitness Apps
There are apps for entertainment and stress relief, so why not fitness? Fitness apps are truly diverse. You can log your workouts, water consumption and even take photos of your food/workouts to inspire others. For the long-term, fitness apps can help you track your progress and get you closer to your ultimate exercise goals.
Wearable Fitness Technology
Wearable monitoring devices can do a lot for your workouts. Examples include the Fit-bit and Garmin. Such tools can help you measure movement, calories burned, sleep patterns, skin temperature, blood oxygen levels and more!
Social Accountability
You lean on friends and family for weight management support, so why not others online? Plenty of devices and applications have a social element that allows you to connect with others and gain support, resources and encouragement. It’s important to network with other people who “get it” and are on the same journey as you.
Want More Examples of Workout Technology?
There are tons of resources we haven’t touched on! For more information, resources and ideas, please CLICK HERE to view the full article from Your Weight Matters Magazine.