Health watches feature a variety of fitness functions and sensors for activity monitoring. They can resemble traditional analog timepieces or modern smartwatches.They are particularly popular with ambitious and enthusiastic athletes who want to track their training and performance progress.
Some of the best models feature apps for various sports, GPS tracking, and built-in heart rate monitors. Only a few smartwatches can currently measure blood pressure; the best-known examples are the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3, Galaxy Watch 4, and Galaxy Watch Active 2, which also feature an ECG function. In addition, there are some simple blood pressure-measuring smartwatches with a medical purpose, such as the Medisana BPW 300 and the Newgen Medical SW-450 fitness watch.
Health fitness trackers
Fitness trackers usually feature a wide range of functions, including step counters, distance meters, and sleep monitoring.
The band transmits the measurement data to a smartphone, which then analyzes it using an app and presents the results. This means that by using displays or other indicators, the devices themselves can be reduced to a minimum.
As a result, they are exceptionally lightweight and can be worn comfortably both during the day and at night. However, to use them, a smartphone with the corresponding software is always required. The price ranges from 30 to 200 euros.
The band transmits the measurement data to a smartphone, which then analyzes it using an app and presents the results. This means that by using displays or other indicators, the devices themselves can be reduced to a minimum.
As a result, they are exceptionally lightweight and can be worn comfortably both during the day and at night. However, to use them, a smartphone with the corresponding software is always required. The price ranges from 30 to 200 euros.
Due to the extensive range of functions, which differs from fitness and sports watches, there is a significant price difference. This is not just about the sporting advantage. GPS sports watches, multisport watches, and fitness bands differ greatly in price, but are functionally equivalent.
The main difference between the two devices is that with a sports watch, training-relevant data and measurement results can be displayed directly on a larger display and are thus specifically tailored to the needs of athletes.
Most settings can also be made directly on the watch, so the smartphone is not needed during training. In addition, certain models offer unique features and apps for various sports. Furthermore, practically all newer versions offer the option of heart rate measurement.
The measurement is carried out either at the wrist or via a separate chest strap. The watches are equipped with a GLONASS or GPS receiver, which allows for precise tracking of the distance covered and the time required for it.
The benefits of health watches
Of course, the thorough recording and analysis of training sessions is the greatest advantage of health watches. With such a device, training can be significantly professionalized, and the results give you insight into your abilities and limits as well as wonderful motivation to continue improving. It is known that people today do not move enough in their daily lives, which is also evident from the increasing number of overweight people.
For office workers who sit at their desks all day, and for people who simply cannot bring themselves to exercise on their own, wearing a fitness watch would undoubtedly be beneficial. In the opinion of experts, a health watch is too much for people who simply want to increase their regular training. For most people, a solid fitness tracker is the best option.
The accuracy of health watches
Based on general experience, the sensors in fitness and sports watches are usually more accurate than those in simple fitness trackers. However, in daily life and without GPS support, there are still minor issues, e.g., when trying to count steps. If the GPS is disabled, the tracker uses the sensors to count steps in order to determine the distance covered and calories burned. Depending on the model and arm movements, this can lead to minor and major inaccuracies. This is partly because most fitness watches are worn on the wrist and the number of steps is calculated based on arm movements.
If the tracker user, for example, moves their arms a lot while washing dishes, this can result in a lot of steps.
On the other hand, it is also possible to walk a lot without moving your arms; in this case, no steps are recorded. To demonstrate this, experts have conducted many tests while washing dishes and using a shopping cart. The importance of the sporty fashion accessory, which also fits office attire, is recognized by both men and women. All models feature the basic functions, including the ability to record active minutes, steps, and calories burned.
Prices for versions without a display start at 40 euros.
Depending on the preferred sport, the fitness watch should have certain functions, which is also reflected in a higher price. It should be considered that some fitness functions are only accessible via apps. For cyclists and runners, a GPS function is crucial, as it allows for a detailed analysis of the distance covered.
A barometric altimeter can be used in conjunction with another device to measure elevation changes. In addition, some health watches feature displays that can show the desired route.
