Let's face it, we're living in an era of wearable technology. From smartwatches to fitness trackers, these devices have become our constant companions, promising to help us track our health and fitness goals with just a flick of the wrist. However, as convenient as they may be, are they really as accurate as we believe them to be? Especially when it comes to counting the number of calories burned during physical activity?
Recent research suggests that relying solely on your smartwatch or wearable's calorie burn count could be misleading, and might even sabotage your weight loss efforts1. Let's delve into why this is the case, and explore some more reliable alternatives.
Understanding the Inaccuracy
Your wearable device calculates the number of calories burned based on certain metrics such as heart rate, steps taken, or distance travelled. However, these calculations can often be inaccurate1. For instance, factors like age, height, weight, and gender significantly impact how many calories you burn during a workout, but not all devices take these into account2.
Moreover, it's crucial to remember that each person's body responds differently to exercise. Two people may do the same workout, but one may burn more calories than the other due to differences in metabolism, muscle mass, and fitness levels2.
The Domino Effect: Overeating and Unintentional Weight Gain
You've just finished a gruelling workout, and your smartwatch flashes an impressive calorie burn count. Feeling victorious, you decide to treat yourself to an extra slice of pizza or an ice cream sundae. After all, you've "earned" it, right?
Not so fast. Here's where the problem lies: if your wearable's calorie burn count is inflated, you might end up consuming more calories than you actually burned, leading to unintentional weight gain over time3.
Smarter Tracking for Sustainable Success
While smartwatches and wearables can be a great tool to motivate you to move more, it's crucial not to rely solely on them for calorie burn estimates. Instead, consider using a combination of methods to achieve a more accurate picture of your calorie expenditure:
Heart Rate Monitoring: Devices that accurately track heart rate can provide a better estimation of calorie burn, as they account for the intensity of your workout4.
Fitness Tracking Apps: Some apps use complex algorithms and take into account personal factors like age, height, weight, and gender to provide a more accurate estimation of calories burned2.
Hiring a Personal Trainer: A qualified fitness professional can provide personalized workout plans and nutrition advice, helping you make sustainable lifestyle changes5.
While wearable technology has its place in tracking overall activity levels, it's essential to understand their limitations when it comes to estimating calorie burn. By adopting a comprehensive approach to health and fitness, you'll be better equipped to manage your weight, improve your fitness levels, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Remember, it's not just about the numbers on your wrist. It's about making sustainable changes that lead to long-term success.
Footnotes
Wearable activity trackers–advanced technology or advanced marketing? ↩ ↩2
Mobile physical activity planning and tracking: a brief overview of current options and desiderata for future solutions ↩ ↩2 ↩3
Wearables and personal health data: putting a premium on your privacy ↩
Review on wearable technology sensors used in consumer sport applications ↩
Trends in workplace wearable technologies and connected‐worker solutions for next‐generation occupational safety, health, and productivity ↩