Smart devices: Smart health

Using smart devices to set smarter health goals

New technologies give us more tools to manage our lives. This also extends to tools that can help us track our activities and health status. Smart devices have changed the way people monitor and take control of their health.

Smart technologies and your health

Wearable devices like fitness bands and smartwatches have become commonplace. Different devices offer different features, but a basic step tracker counts how many steps you take a day. These devices synchronise with an application on your smartphone. More advanced devices can monitor your heart rate and detect what kind of activity you are doing.

However, you do not need to buy an additional device to track your health. Any smartphone can be converted into a fitness-tracking and health-monitoring device. Some smart devices come with a pre-installed health and fitness application, but there are many free applications you can download to help you track your health.

Tracking your fitness is important. Fitness devices and applications make sure that you have an accurate record of your physical activity.

Smartphones can help promote good health

Applications have changed how people view and engage with their health and fitness. Applications are available to improve diet (for example with the MyFitnessPal App) and track moods. Some applications also give exercise advice.

Productivity applications are gaining traction because they allow users to set realistic goals for themselves about eating, exercise, remembering to take medication, and sleep. While some of these applications are free, you have to pay a monthly or yearly subscription fee. Search the App Store or Google Play for fitness applications. Read the descriptions and reviews carefully before downloading an application to find the right app for you.

Wearable fitness devices and applications can inspire you to take charge of your health and fitness. They give you more accurate information than memory alone about what you eat, how much you exercise, and changes in mood.