From the New York Times to Time Magazine, they’re all reporting that fitness trackers or “wearables” may actually cause weight gain. This news coverage is based on a report from the Journal of the American Medical Association. The bottom line finding: “Devices that monitor and provide feedback on physical activity may not offer an advantage over standard behavioral weight loss approaches.”
In this study they found that standard approaches resulted in losing 13 pounds on average. In contrast, those in the study that included wearables lost 7.7 pounds on average. Not sure that this data justifies a news headline that fitness trackers may actually make you gain weight. But that headline does attract readers.
Awareness vs. Action
Of course, no one should confuse awareness with taking action to actually lose weight. Measuring your activity and your weight can help you better understand the adverse consequences of that donut or dessert.
But the measure alone can’t help you drop those extra pounds. That’s going to take exercise, monitoring your diet, and getting up from your desk. Also, when you do break the chain to your desk, it shouldn’t be to find a snack, but rather to climb a few stairs.
Discouraged vs. Empowered
Some speculate that all the information about your fitness activities coupled with limited weight loss results, might lead to discouragement. Or, they note that monitoring your increased activity might lead you to feel that you can eat more since you are exercising more.
Reality vs. Make-Believe
Wearables aren’t the solution to achieving higher fitness levels and lowering your weight. They can only provide you with detailed insight into your activity levels. Many wearables can offer advice and that can provide motivation. But the reality is that it will be your own efforts at exercise and healthy eating that will make things happen. Whether that is lower weight, increased fitness levels, or both.
We Can Help
Well, we probably can’t help with your fitness or weight loss program. But we can help with your vision. If your wearable is providing lots of data, but you can’t quite see it on that small screen, give us a call.
Use our contact form or call us at 972-612-2099. We can evaluate your vision and provide just the right solution based on our expertise and years of experience.
Disclaimer: The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
