A Fitbit is a small wireless device that can be used to track one’s activity throughout the day and night. When worn during the day, this device will monitor the steps taken and distance walked. The Fitbit can be worn at night to track an individual’s sleep habits.
Each Fitbit comes with a wireless base station, wristband, and belt holster. The device itself has a distinct clip shape and can neatly slide onto thin garments or bra straps. The device can even be kept in a pocket during the day. For accurate sleep readings, it should be worn with the wristband that comes with it.
This Fitbit tracks daily activities in a manner similar to that of a pedometer. A Fitbit differs from a pedometer because it can track nighttime activity. This product will monitor movement, the number of times the wearer wakes up, and the hours of sleep that he gets.
The daily readings gathered by the Fitbit are uploaded to the product’s website any time the device passes by the wireless base station. It does not need to be removed, hooked up, or otherwise synced for the information to be gathered. This device can store up to seven days of detailed information or 30 days of summarized information if the wearer is away from his wireless station for an extended period of time.
This device is powered by a battery, included with purchase. The battery will usually last about 10 days. After 10 days, the Fitbit must be recharged fully for the device to continue to work.
The manufacturer recommends Fitbit users take advantage of the extensive tools available on the product website. While the device logs walking and sleeping, it can be inaccurate when more strenuous activities are performed. Users can input their own activities into the online database for a more accurate profile. The website also provides a database of 50,000 foods that can be used to track the foods eaten each day.
The comprehensive profile created from both the wireless readings and the information provided by the individual can be used in a variety of ways. The Fitbit will provide a daily activity level score that gives a good indication of how sedentary an individual is. This can be used as motivation to get more exercise. A record of calories burned will let the user see how much progress he is making over time. The sleep information can help pinpoint problems with tiredness.
Used over an extended period of time, this product can provide a detailed accounting of one’s daily lifestyle.