Fitness trackers: watches, bands and rings

What it is

Wrist-worn monitors tend to use a motion sensor called triaxial accelerometry, which measures movement in three directions.

Source: CDC: Comparison of Wrist- and Hip-Worn Activity Monitors When Meeting Step Guidelines ↗

What people use it for

Wearable devices are thought to be useful for tracking daily step counts and promoting an active lifestyle.

Source: CDC: Comparison of Wrist- and Hip-Worn Activity Monitors When Meeting Step Guidelines ↗

What the research has found so far

• The same study found wrist-worn monitors counted more steps than hip-worn pedometers during daily activities.
• The study found total steps were significantly higher on wrist-worn monitors than on hip-worn pedometers.
• Past validation studies generally show wrist-worn monitors overestimate steps in everyday life by 10% to 35%.
• Past studies also show wrist-worn monitors undercount steps by 35% to 95% when the wrist does not move, such as when pushing a shopping cart.
• The study authors concluded the 10,000-step goal may not be accurate for all users of all activity monitors.

Source: CDC: Comparison of Wrist- and Hip-Worn Activity Monitors When Meeting Step Guidelines ↗

On fitness trackers and aging, PubMed lists 212 trials in people, 375 studies that watched people over time, 0 animal and lab studies. See the counts and searches

Questions to ask your doctor

• Would fitness trackers: watches, bands and rings be useful for me, and what should I do with the readings?
• Which type or model would you trust, and how do I use it so the readings are accurate?
• Could I bring it to an appointment to check it against your equipment?
• How often should I share the results with you, and which numbers should make me call?