How to Choose a Fitness Band
Fitness bands are smart devices monitoring daily movement and sleep. They measure the number of steps taken, the amount of calories burned or the quality and duration of your sleep. The basic models show the recorded values using LED indicators, the more expensive ones have a display. They have a stylish design and it is assumed that you would be wearing them even to work or school. They can last up to few weeks or months on a single charge.
Frequently asked questions when choosing fitness bands
How are cheap fitness bands different from the more expensive ones?
Fitness bands for 500–3,000 CZK
The cheaper fitness bands with prices starting at 500 CZK are basic models, mainly used as a pedometer and sleep monitor. In addition, they can measure the distance traveled, calories burned or activity time. They usually have LED indicators rather than a display. Some of these bands are able to receive notifications from a paired mobile phone. The amount and kind of information received depend on options of the display or LED lights. Basic models may not have the same quality of mobile application as the more expensive ones and they are not always waterproof.
Fitness bands for 3 000–6 500 CZK
More expensive fitness bands usually provide the same functions as the cheaper ones, plus they offer some extra features. They have larger displays, they can automatically recognize the type of sport activity and sometimes they have an integrated heart rate monitor. For example, Ritot Watch offers a built-in pico projector projecting the current time on your wrist after shaking your hand.
In addition to a better mobile application, they also offer web access and possibility to sync the device with popular applications such as Endomondo or Runtastic, or caloric tables.
This division is only indicative. Even fitness bands in the same price range can differ from each other in functions. For example, even the cheapest fitness bands can have a display, e.g. Xiaomi Mi Band 2 , and vice versa, many more expensive models, such as Fitbit Flex 2 work on the principle of LED indicators. And of course, the newly introduced bracelets will provide more and more features.
Is the accuracy of fitness bands important?
The purpose of fitness bands is to make you move , not flawless distance measurement. No fitness band measures with perfect accuracy, and whether it counts up 7,600 or 7,800 steps doesn't really matter. What does matter is that you have found motivation and time to be active.
How do fitness bands measure heart rate?
Using a chest strap
Heart rate chest strap is relatively accurate but someone could find it not very comfortable. It transmits the measured values to the fitness band using Bluetooth technology. The advantage of chest strap is the compatibility with many bands of different manufacturers.
Using sensor measurement
Some of the new fitness bands are able to measure heart rate directly from the wrist. They use sensor technologies to measure values by monitoring changes in the blood flow. The measurement process is carried out by monitoring the light reflections from capillaries just below the skin. This type of measurement is comfortable but less accurate. However, the measured values are sufficient for most users.
Is fitness band a good gift for kids?
Yes, we highly recommend fitness bands to children, because they will learn how important movement is. There are bands available in smaller sizes and different colors.
Should I remove my fitness band before showering or sleeping?
You can keep them on as they are waterproof and they monitor the quality and length of your sleep at night. Many people wear their fitness bands all day long without taking them off.
Fitness bands
To improve fitness
What is important when choosing a fitness band
Battery life
Long battery life is one of the big advantages of fitness bands over sport testers . They can run up to several days, weeks, or even months.
Pairing with smartphone
More expensive wristbands can display notifications when paired with smartphones. This allows you to see who is calling or writing you a message or an email. The more features a bracelet or sport tester has, the more expensive it is. Clarify which features are important to you.
Display
Cheaper fitness bracelets show the values with LED indicators, which is enough for most users. The more demanding users can reach for more expensive models with displays.