Best Clip On Fitness Trackers in 2020 | Reviews & Buyers Guide

In this article, I’ll review the best clip on fitness trackers in 2020. I will also provide an insightful Buyers Guide for fitness trackers in terms of budget, user experience, and user compatibility.

By the end of this article, you will know which clip on fitness tracker is right for you and your fitness goals.

You will also be made aware of the different functions each tracker offers and the best ones to buy on a budget.

So, let’s get down to it!

Best Clip On Fitness Trackers for Long-Distance Running

 

Garmin Running Dynamics Pod

The pod is meant to be clipped to the back of your running shorts. The device has an accelerometer inside and sends your fitness measures to a synced Garmin watch.

Best Clip On Fitness Trackers for Walking in Parks

 

3D TriSport Walking 3D Clip On Pedometer

The 3D TriSport is able to distinguish when a person is walking vs. when one is running. The tracker comes with a calorie counter feature and also allows you to set daily goals.

Best Clip On Fitness Trackers for Daily Exercise

 

Fitbit Versa 2

It tracks sleep pattern, steps, distance, calories, and can auto-detect various types of exercise. This device allows for numerous targets and goals to be set. You can also enter your meals to log the number of calories consumed.

Best Clip On Fitness Trackers for Hiking Activities

 

Ulvench Fitness Tracker

Multi-purpose device that can be used for any physical activity or sport!

Best Clip On Fitness Trackers for Sports and Tournaments

 

Garmin Forerunner 735 XT

The device can successfully capture metrics from your cardio, cycling, swimming, strength training, and hiking activities.

Best Clip On Fitness Trackers for Daily Wear

 

Fitbit Charge 2

Best for everyday fitness tracking!

There are several types of people in the world. There are workaholics, homebodies, social elites, and fitness fanatics.

 

I personally consider myself a strong connoisseur in the art of… staying home. This self-proclaimed title of mine omits me from being a workaholic, social elite, or fitness fanatic.

 

You can suspend your worries about me though. I’ve decided to embark on a journey of self-renovation and enhancement to ensure the new year is started off right.

 

My transition from homebody to fitness fanatic won’t be an easy journey. Clip on fitness trackers, however, will help me tremendously in my endeavors.

 

These trackers are changing the art of fitness and physical enhancement as we know it. These small devices can help you keep track of your calories, distance, steps, and heart rate. They even function as clocks or timers.

 

Fast forward to 2020 and these clip on fitness trackers will revolutionize the way people work out. If the goal is to lose that extra weight and fit in those jeans, these trackers can easily be your best friend.

 

Finding the best clip on fitness tracker is no easy task. There are many factors to take in to consideration when deciding.

 

You may want a tracker that’s going to stay on you no matter what, through long-distance running and even through the woods. Or you may want a tracker that helps you out in a school sport or tournament.

One that has all the features and functions perfect for when you’re on the court.

 

Fitness trackers come in all shapes, sizes, and functions. Each tracker also comes with its own advantages and drawbacks.

 

I’m going to tell you which tracker will be suitable for you and your exercise needs. I’ll also let you in on the best trackers available for a person on a budget. Regardless of which tracker you need for your ‘get in shape’ resolutions, I’m here to help.

 

Below, I have compared the 6 best clip on fitness trackers in 2020.

I’ve broken down each option by compatibility, functions, and online ratings.

 

I understand that all these different options may freak you out. I’m here to tell you that it’s not as daunting as it looks to pick the right tracker.

Especially if you fully understand what it is you need to do to achieve your fitness goals.

 

And just in case you are also interested in VR games and plan to use your trackers to track your activities while playing, please read our recent articles on the best VR headsets for VRChat and Steam!

What are the Best Clip On Fitness Trackers in 2020?

Quick Answer:

Comparison Table for the Best Clip On Fitness Trackers

Swipe the table!
Tracker Our Rating Compatibility Function
Garmin Running Dynamics Pod 4.3 / 5 Garmin watches Accurate cadence, ground contact time balance, stride length, vertical oscillation, vertical ratio, and ground contact time
3D TriSport Walking 3D Clip-On Pedometer 4.2 / 5 Does not have to be connected via Bluetooth or any other device. It is an independent tracker Calorie counter, timer, battery-powered, built-in clock and step goal
Fitbit Versa 2 4.3 / 5 Windows, Android, iOS Heart rate monitor, advanced tracker, long battery life, waterproof, built-in Alexa
Ulvench Fitness Tracker 3.9 / 5 Android, iOS devices Heart rate monitor, pedometer, real-time calorie counter, sleep monitor, advanced tracker, and waterproof
Garmin Forerunner 735 XT 4.2 / 5 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS Heart rate monitor, sleep tracker, GPS, advanced dynamics for running, cycling, swimming, ground contact time balance, stride length, vertical ratio and more
Fitbit Charge 2 4.1 / 5 Windows, Android, iOS Heart rate monitor, sleep tracker

Best Clip On Fitness Trackers in 2020

1. Garmin Running Dynamics Pod | Best for Long-Distance Running

best clip on fitness trackers Garmin Running Dynamics Pod

They say a dog is a guy’s best friend. Well, Garmin Pods are a runner’s best friend. These fitness tracker pods can easily result in total domination of the running tracks.

The device comes with an accelerometer inside. This allows the runner to measure running cadence, vertical oscillation, vertical ratio, ground contact time, and ground contact time balance.


So, this is certainly one of the best clip on fitness trackers to choose!

The Garmin Running Dynamics Pod is reasonably-priced in itself. The suggested retail price rings up at $70. The only problem with this product is that it’s a co-dependent product that can’t stand alone.

It has to be used with compatible Garmin smartwatches, which are pricier for the consumer.

The pod is lightweight and can easily clip onto your waistband. The pod also provides a runner with a plethora of accurate data.

So much to the point that they might never stop running. All it requires to work is a compatible Garmin smartwatch. When used alongside a Garmin watch, all functions can be enabled and you can start your run.

 

Tech Specs

Everything runners need to experience a successful run is available for them in the Garmin pods and watches.

Their 1.5 × 0.9 × 0.8 dimensions will feel like nothing on your body.

You’ll also never have to worry about the tracker giving up on you. At least not for a year due to their CR1632 coin cell battery.

Sadly, there is one catch to it all. The Garmin Pod is only compatible with Forerunner 935, Fenix 5/5X/5S, Forerunner 735XT & Fenix Chronos watches.

This just means that it’ll be more appropriate to purchase both the pod and Garmin watch together.

 

Battery Life

Assuming runners were to use this fitness tracker for 1 hour a day, the battery life would last a year.

The pod is also powered by replaceable batteries that are no hassle to change out.

All you do is pop the back of the pod off and switch them out.

The Garmin Pod uses a CR1632 coin cell battery. This type of battery, despite the complex name, is super easy to find at your local supply store.

I can’t imagine you’ll be spending much time there though.

The battery’s year-long life span promises and ensures limited trips to the store, which just means more time to run for you.

 

Features and Benefits

  • The Garmin pod measures stats such as cadence, vertical oscillation, vertical ratio, left/right balance, stride length, and ground contact time.

  • It is so small and lightweight that you’ll almost forget it’s there.

  • It sends all 6 running dynamics to the synched Garmin watch.

  • It has an advanced battery life-span, perfect for the busy runner who lacks time to frequent their local stores for new batteries

Pros

Cons

2. 3D TriSport Walking 3D Clip-On Pedometer | Best for Walking in Parks

best clip on fitness trackers 3D TriSport Walking 3D Clip-On Pedometer

Maybe you don’t need a super accurate and expensive tracker to assist you while running. Maybe daily walking is more your style.


If so, then the 3D TriSport Walking 3D Clip-On Pedometer will be better for you. It is again one of the best clip on fitness tracker available.

The 3D TriSport tracker tracks your steps and is smart enough to know when you’re walking vs. when you are running. It has modest features such as a calorie counter, a timer, and a clock.


This tracker is perfect for people who aren’t looking for a super techy, complicated device. You can also set up daily goals on your tracker and adjust them whenever you want.

This fitness tracker is an independent tracker and does not have to be connected to Bluetooth or any other device. This, in turn, saves you the trouble of possibly having to deal with connectivity issues.

 

The price isn’t too shabby either. The 3D TriSport is priced at a mere $22, making it affordable and available to anyone looking to get in shape in 2020.

 

Tech Specs

The 3D TriSport uses the latest 3D Tri-Axis Sensor technology to track your daily walking activities.


It also stores 30 days of your daily records using a not-too-shabby processor.

The device takes less than 20 minutes to setup and begin using. All the tracker needs to know is the time, your weight, height, and stride length.

 

Battery Life

The device uses a CR2032 battery. These batteries are long-lasting and can easily survive up to a year.

There is a foil in the battery compartment at the back of the device. For this purpose, the tracker comes with a screwdriver, to assist in battery replacement and to ensure the compartment can be easily opened and closed.

 

Features and Benefits

  • It offers a small, compact design and is perfect for a walker who prefers minimalism over anything else.

  • It has a 30-day memory bank for tracking progress. This can be either an advantage or disadvantage for you, depending on what type of storage you’re looking for in a tracker.

  • It offers a long-lasting battery life of around 12 months.

  • The tracker is independent and does not need Bluetooth or another device to work. This benefits you by avoiding possible connectivity issues.

  • The price of a 3D TriSport usually never exceeds $25, thus saving your wallets from future suffering.

Pros

Cons

3. Fitbit Versa 2  | Best for Daily Exercise

best clip on fitness trackers Fitbit Versa 2

The Fitbit Versa 2 is a bit more technical for the traditionalists.


The device comes with newer and better features when compared to other trackers. An example of this new feature is the tracker’s built-in Alexa.


The device also offers 24/7 heart rate tracking, step tracking, distance tracking, sleep score, apps, and more.

 

The Fitbit Versa is basically an advanced fitness smartwatch. This particular tracker is perfect for the tech-savvy workout lover.


The device allows you to receive quick news, weather updates, and can control your smart home devices through your voice.

It also knows how many calories you’ve burned and keeps track of all your daily activities.

 

Ever wanted to listen to music but don’t feel like lugging around your phone? Fitbit Versa 2 offers Spotify and Pandora so you can listen to all your favorite tunes while doing the elliptical.


Who says you can’t belt out a throwback Alicia Keys single while doing crunches? No one. Not anymore with Fitbit Versa 2.

 

Tech Specs

The Fitbit Versa 2 comes with a sharp 300 × 300 pixel touchscreen and has an aluminum watch case.


It requires Bluetooth 4.0 and 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi to function efficiently and smoothly. The 4.0 version ensures less connectivity issues and will just save you a headache in the long run.

The tracker has a water resistance of up to 50m, meaning you never have to worry about it getting messed up due to water.


The device also promises advanced accuracy due to its fancy, built-in sensors.


These sensors include a 3-axis accelerometer, optical heart rate monitor, altimeter, ambient light sensor, vibration motor, and so much more.

 

Battery Life

Fitbit Versa 2 and other upgraded Fitbit Versa trackers have a battery life of around 6+ days.

Battery life and charge cycles might vary depending on use, settings, and other factors.


Though Fitbit says that you can expect the watch to last for at least 4 days from a single charge. Real-life results may easily go beyond 4 days.

If you want to extend the battery life further, you could also set the screen’s brightness to dim rather than automatic or bright.

 

Features and Benefits

  • The Fitbit Versa 2 is waterproof, perfect for the fitness fanatic who’s prone to excessive sweating.

  • The Versa 2 has health and workout features that include a heart rate sensor, step counter, and various other motion sensors to track activities.

  • The tracker allows you to receive calls, texts, and even send out replies of your own. This device is especially perfect for daily joggers because it gives them the security of knowing that the outside world is a touch away.

Pros

Cons

4. Ulvench Fitness Tracker | Best for Hiking Activities

best clip on fitness trackers Ulvench Fitness Tracker

Ulvench is newer and cheaper when compared to other brands.


Their trackers offer features that only the more expensive brands offer. With that being said, you can probably get the biggest bang for your buck with the Ulvench Fitness Tracker.


It records daily activities, has a heart rate monitor, pedometer, sleep monitor, and acts as a smartwatch.

 

You probably don’t think it can get any better that. Well, it actually can! The tracker is waterproof and is one of the best buys for avid hikers.


This is partially due to its strong build and durability. The tracker also has the ability to track everything you do on a hike. This includes steps, distance, height covered, and calorie consumption.

 

The tracker comes with extra features like an alarm, call, SMS alert, and a reminder option.


Hikers still like to be in tune with the real world when on a hike retreat. The call and SMS alert will especially be good for one such hiker.

 

Tech Specs

Ulvench Fitness Trackers are modest-looking smartwatches. They don’t look super extravagant but do more than the eye can see.

 

The screen size is a mere 0.96 inch. Dimensions, in terms of optimal wrist sizes, are 5.4 inch-7.6 inch.


This means that the tracker should be a perfect fit for almost anyone out there. Unless you happen to be a 12-foot giant with abnormally large hands!

 

The tracker uses a Lithium-ion Battery at a capacity of 65mAh. Lithium-ion batteries are also known to be long-lasting, which likely explains the tracker’s long battery life.


Though I guess the extended battery life just means more time to hike uninterrupted.

 

Battery Life

The Ulvench Fitness Tracker has a fairly long battery life. Most of these trackers can last up to 5-10 days without being charged. This means that the device is especially perfect for a week-long hiking trip.

The tracker comes with a USB port, making it easy to charge using any device that supports USB connectivity. This entails Android and iOS devices.

 

The time it takes an Ulvench Fitness Tracker to reach a fully-charged capacity is approximately 1 hour.


I’ll let you take a second to soak that in. This tracker only takes an hour to fully charge and lasts a whole week!

 

Features and Benefits

  • It offers features such as a step counter, calorie counter, heart rate tracker, and so much more.

  • The tracker’s Bluetooth Transmission Distance is 32.8 feet. This means you don’t have to be incredibly close to your phone to workout with the device.

  • The built-in Alexa allows people to get quick news, weather updates, and even control of their smart home devices.

Pros

Cons

5. Garmin Forerunner 735 XT | Best for Sports and Tournaments

best clip on fitness trackers Garmin Forerunner 735 XT

The Garmin Forerunner 735 XT is exactly what every athlete needs on their hand.


This tracker measures heart rate at the wrist and provides advanced dynamics for running, cycling, swimming, and so much more.

You’ll be a much better athlete today than you were yesterday with this tracker. The Garmin Forerunner understands what athletes need to keep them on a successful path.


This understanding is why the device offers built-in activity profiles.


These profiles ensure that the athlete can keep track of different activities such as running, swimming, cross-country, and strength training.

 

You may be asking yourself if this can get any better. Well, athletes, don’t get out your card to pay just yet.


The Garmin Forerunner is a bit on the pricey side and should be considered an investment than a casual buy.


If you have the money to splurge, however, I highly recommend getting this for your athletic needs.

 

Tech Specs

In case you had a fear of faceplanting while doing hurdles, just know that nothing will happen to your Garmin Forerunner.


The lens material on the tracker is made of chemically strengthened glass. It’ll be almost impossible for the screen to crack by just simply falling down.

While we’re talking about screens, it’s certainly hard not to miss the Garmin Forerunner’s screen. The display resolution is a crisp 215 × 180 pixels.


The display size is also a perfect 31.1 mm with the tracker’s physical size being 44.5 × 44.5 × 11.9 mm.

 

Battery Life

In activity mode, the Garmin Forerunner will last up to 14 hours. This is with the GPS and optical HR features turned on.


This means that the device can track an entire 100-mile bike ride without needing to be recharged.

In watch mode, the battery will last up to 11 days. This mode includes activity tracking, smart notifications, and optical heart rate tracking.

The device takes around an hour to get fully charged. This is particularly hard to believe when you keep the tracker’s long battery life in mind.


An hour spent charging for over a week’s worth of use? That sounds almost too hard to believe!

 

Features and Benefits

  • It offers advanced dynamics for tracking several different activities, including sport-related activities.

  • It offers the option to create several activity profiles for the purpose of organization and simplicity.

  • It offers a feature that lets family and friends track your location in real-time. So, whether you’re riding a bike or jogging, people will know where you are at all times.

Pros

Cons

6. Fitbit Charge 2 | Best for Daily Wear

best clip on fitness trackers Fitbit Charge 2

Fitbit Charge 2 is a smart fitness band that helps to reach your physical goals in style.


It’s also one of the best trackers to wear for day-to-day fitness. It’s especially helpful for tracking steps taken, distance covered, calories burned, and floors climbed.

Your Charge 2 is programmed to celebrate with you when you reach your main goal.


This is set to 10,000 steps by default and resets at midnight. However, you’re free to exercise fitness freedom by changing this goal in the Fitbit app settings.

 

This fitness tracker can also track your sleep and set reminders for you. The device almost acts as your own personal fitness instructor, which is mainly why it’s such a good tracker for daily wear.

 

The device offers many other features such as an alarm, clock, heart rate monitor, and GPS.


There’s even a “Guided Breathing Session” option. With that being said, I think it’s safe to declare this the best tracker for everyday use.

 

Tech Specs

The Fitbit Charge 2 has an OLED display type and, like the Versa 2, requires connection using Bluetooth 4.0.

The wireless range of this tracker is 20 feet or 6.1 m. This means that you can workout just about anywhere.


Just as long as it’s within the recommended distance of the device the tracker is connected to.

 

Battery Life

The tracker’s battery life is rated at around 5 days.

You can make your battery life last longer by setting less alarms, turning off All-Day sync, turning off Quick View, and turning off the heart rate monitor.

 

Features and Benefits

  • The Fitbit Charge 2 tracks steps, distance, calories burned, floors climbed, and so much more for the purpose of keeping you in tune with your fitness journey.

  • The tracker sends you reminders to move and encourages 250 steps an hour.

  • The device tracks how long and how well you sleep and factors that in to your exercise routine.

Pros

Cons

Best Clip On Fitness Trackers — Buyers Guide

Function

One of the main things to consider before buying a fitness tracker is the function.

What can I do with this device?

What can this device do for me and my fitness goals?

These are some questions that should arise when considering the functions of the trackers.

 

Compatibility

Another thing to consider is compatibility.

What do I need in order to unlock and enable all the functions necessary for my tracker?

Do I need an Apple device or will Windows suffice?

These questions should arise when considering the compatibility of fitness trackers.

 

User Experience

User experiences are also very helpful in narrowing down your options for trackers.

Online ratings and reviews clue us in to how different consumers feel about the particular device.

These reviews give us valuable insight and allow us the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the product. Before buying it, of course.

 

Pros & Cons

It never hurts to weigh the pros and cons either.

Take the old school approach and make a comparison list of different fitness trackers.

If a tracker has more negative qualities than positive ones, it isn’t meant to be.

If a tracker has more positive qualities than bad, get your bikinis on stand-by for that weight loss reveal! It’s as simple as that.

 

Price

Lastly, the most important question to ask is a price-based question.

How much will this tracker cost me?

Will I go broke and be forced to foreclose my business if I buy one?

I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to worry about that. You’ll be fine as long as you stick to the budget and only purchase affordable trackers that align with you and your goals.

 


Below are 15 more popular questions that consumers find themselves asking in regards to the best clip on fitness trackers.

 

After reading these questions, you should have a clearer picture on what it is you’re looking for.


You might even feel an urge to go buy a tracker right as you’re done reading this! As well as a new sense of motivation to get out there and start exercising.

What is the best clip on fitness tracker out there?

In all honesty, there is no direct answer to this question. The reason for that is because there are multiple answers.

A one-size-fits-all tracker just isn’t a real thing.

You need to first figure out what type of exercise and fitness routine you have.

 

Are you an avid runner?

Do you prefer casual walking?

Do you consider yourself a daily exerciser?

Are you a hiker or an athlete?

Are you none of the above and just want a tracker for daily wear?

These are the questions people need to be asking themselves when figuring out which tracker is the best.

 

On that note, the Garmin pods are best for runners.

The best ones for walking are the 3D TriSport trackers.

The best ones for daily exercise and daily wear can be any tracker from the Fitbit brand.

The Ulvench Fitness Tracker is hands-down the best for hikers.

Lastly, athletes will find that the Garmin Forerunners have all the qualities and functions perfect for them and only them.

Do I really need a fitness tracker just to stay fit?

This is, quite possibly, one of the most asked questions out there about fitness trackers.

This is because people want to know the actual benefit of these devices. They want to know if fitness trackers will help them at all in their fitness goals.

 

The doubt that these consumers have is probably the result of a year’s worth of failed weight loss attempts.

Well, fear not and put your trust in these devices. I ask this of you because fitness trackers really do help out.

They monitor and track fitness-related metrics such as distance walked or run, calorie consumption, and heartbeat.

It’s important to keep in mind that these are just of few of the functions. Trackers offer so much more and just help to keep you updated on your fitness journey.

 

They also act as personal motivators to those that don’t have a steady income to afford the weekly services of a fitness trainer.

With all that said, the answer is actually No.

You do not need a tracker just to stay fit. Staying fit is all up to you at the end of the day.

These trackers, however, are highly beneficial and just serve to provide extra help to you.

Are fitness trackers expensive?

The simple answer is Yes and No.

There are multiple brands of fitness trackers and each one differs in terms of price.

The more expensive trackers are the easiest to pick out. They’re the ones that offer a variety of advanced features and options in terms of abilities.

 

These fitness trackers are also pricey because they likely belong to a name brand.

A good example of one such tracker is the Fitbit tracker.

Anyone who has ever worked out or thought about working out has probably heard of the brand Fitbit. Even if you’ve never been to a gym in your life, you’ve had to have heard of this brand before.

Fitbit is a widely-recognized brand and a majority of their trackers are expensive. This stems from a lot of different reasons, mainly all having to do with the device’s advanced features and benefits.

 

There are cheaper brands of fitness trackers though.

Some examples are the Lintelek, Akasma, Tepoinn, and Ulvench fitness brands. Most of these companies sell their trackers for no more than $30.

In saying all of this, trackers can definitely be expensive. Especially if you have a taste for the more advanced and flashy types of fitness trackers.

However, if you prefer a minimalistic device that gets the job done, you can easily find one for a good price.

How accurate are fitness trackers?

Fitness trackers are fairly accurate for the most part.

Though this is not to say that all trackers are accurate and perfect in every way.

There are surely some trackers that don’t need to be on the market.

I say this because the whole point of a tracker is to closely monitor your workout and your body’s condition during the workout.

If the device has failed you at that, there’s really no point in using the product.

What should I look for in a fitness tracker?

There are several things to look for in a tracker.

The most important factor is just to make sure that the device aligns well with your needs and goals.

Once you have made sure that it does, you can begin to deduce the usefulness of the tracker by going through a mental checklist.

 

Is it compatible with the device I have now?

Can it accurately measure my steps and heartbeat?

Does it come with additional features like an alarm or a clock?

These questions are important when looking at different trackers. This is because these are common qualities that most efficient trackers have.

 

You should also look at the product’s rating and price. Ratings can especially tell you a lot about the device.

After all, people that have bought and are using this product are telling you of their experience with it.

User experience is very valuable information and can be the key that helps us pick the best tracker.

You should, therefore, look mainly for positive ratings in trackers.

Which fitness trackers have GPS?

Most fitness trackers, especially newer ones, come with an option for GPS.

Some examples of these trackers include the Garmin Forerunner, Fitbit Versa and Charge 2, Polar M400, and many more.

How long does the battery last on fitness trackers?

The answer to this question can vary. It varies because different fitness trackers have different battery life spans.

 

I’ve covered the battery life of 6 different trackers in this article.

The battery life of those trackers compares a lot to the mass majority. This is in the sense that most trackers have a battery life span of a week, 2 weeks, or around a year.

 

You can help prolong your tracker’s battery by lowering your screen’s brightness, turning off certain features, or by using it selectively.

It all really just depends on the consumer’s usage of the tracker.

Where can I buy a clip on fitness tracker?

You can purchase fitness trackers just about anywhere. If we’re talking about online purchases, the most common website to use is Amazon.

You can find just about any brand of tracker in any color on Amazon. There are also other selling websites you can choose from for your tracker needs. These sites include Ebay or Mercari.

 

Maybe you don’t want to buy a tracker online though. Maybe you want to check it out for yourself.

So, if we’re talking about in-person stores, there’s a wide variety to select from. You can purchase your trackers from Dick’s Sporting Goods, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and many other places.

Should I get a smartwatch or a fitness tracker?

Again, it really just depends on what you’re looking for to help you on your exercise journey.

Smartwatches offer a lot of specialized features that trackers don’t offer. Whereas fitness trackers offer a lot of specialized features that smartwatches don’t.

It’s just up to the person to decide which features they would most prefer to have.

If they mostly prefer to have fitness-related features and functions, a fitness tracker would be more suitable.

If they mostly prefer to have features and functions that don’t all have to do with fitness, a smartwatch might be more their speed.

How do fitness trackers know when I’m asleep?

This is likely one of the most asked questions about fitness trackers. Though I can understand why it would be at the back of your mind.

The whole concept can be hard to wrap your head around.

How the heck can this little device know when I’m sleeping?

How can it tell by just being on my wrist?

Well, I’m going to tell you exactly how that is.

 

Most fitness tracking devices use a combination of your movement and heart-rate patterns to estimate your sleep stages.

The device then translates these movements as periods of sleep or wake.

The method of using a device to track movement in order to measure sleep is called Actigraphy.

Actigraphy is usually done in sleep studies but can also have a factor to play in your fitness journey.

As the key to being healthy revolves around adequate sleep, a healthy diet, and proper exercise.

How do fitness trackers count your steps?

This is the question most skeptics ask about fitness trackers.

They ask this because they want to know how accurate trackers are at measuring what they say they’re going to measure.

You can set aside some of your worries though. Most fitness trackers are accurate at measuring different types of fitness metrics, including your daily steps.

 

A wearable tracker continuously senses body movements by using a 3-axis accelerometer.

The data, as long as the device is turned on and fully charged, will be successfully recorded and stored into the device’s memory bank.

 

Fitness devices are able to tell if people are walking forward, running fast, or standing still.

The device categorizes the movements into different activities. Since these trackers already have your personal details, the data is run through a personalized algorithm.

This just makes it possible for the device to detect what the different movements imply.

Does it matter which wrist I wear my fitness tracker on?

The short answer is No. It does not matter!

The longer answer is that it would be preferable to wear it on your non-dominant wrist. That would be your left wrist if you’re right-handed and vice-versa.

 

There’s a reason behind why it’s recommended to wear trackers on your non-dominant wrist. The reason is because you move your dominant hand a lot throughout the day.

So, if you were to wear the tracker on your dominant hand, it could result in an inaccurate amount of “steps.” This just means that your tracker may give you slightly less accurate results.

 

For example, some of the more outdated trackers may mistake you writing an essay for walking.

This is because your hand is moving up and down as you scribble away.

The tracker could also make a mistake if you go to grab something and return it to another location.

Even if you never picked your feet up off the ground, the tracker might count that movement as a step anyway.

Is wearing a Fitbit dangerous?

This question might seem unusual to people that think Fitbits are harmless watches.

Well, for the most part, that’s true.

Though Fitbits have recently gotten a bad rep for causing skin irritations, burns, and wrist pains.

What people don’t know is that these symptoms were likely attributed to allergic reactions of the metal used.

 

Other symptoms may be attributed to EMF radiation.

Fitbits primarily emit EMF from their Bluetooth connection to your phone.

The radiation from Bluetooth devices is non-ionizing but constant connection does emit a fair amount.

 

With that being said, the amount of EMF radiation one receives isn’t something you should worry about.

This is because the exposure you get is not alarmingly high. There are some symptoms you can watch out for though, even if high EMF exposure is unlikely.

These symptoms are headaches, moodiness, sleep disorders, skin irritation, foggy brain, and nausea.

The more serious effects have to do with an increased risk of cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimers.

When should I put on and take off my fitness tracker?

Some people only like to keep their fitness trackers on when they exercise.

If you’re that type of person, I recommend putting on your tracker before exercise and taking it off before bed.

I also recommend taking off your tracker before you shower. Especially if it’s not waterproof.

Will I see quicker weight loss results if I have a fitness tracker?

It’s possible to see quicker results with a fitness tracker than without.

This is just because trackers can offer more for you than if you just exercise without it.

Best Clip On Fitness Trackers — Conclusions

After reviewing and comparing all the best clip on fitness trackers, I have to say that there’s a lot to be excited for in 2020.

Including that future weight loss reveal that you’ve been dreaming of since gaining those breakup pounds.

 

Working out has never been easier than it is right now. Clip on fitness trackers are to blame for that and, as stated before, they will revolutionize the world of physical enhancement.

 

All that’s needed to jump-start your fitness endeavors is the right mindset, motivation, and fitness tracker.

Choosing the right tracker is crucial for your workout goals.

I’ve helped out a bit by comparing the top 6 fitness trackers.

I did this by discussing their compatibility, functions, prices,  and features they offer and don’t offer.

 

I’ve done the hard part, and now, all that’s left is to make the right choice.

You may have gotten lost somewhere in this article though.

In case you have, let me refresh your memory with my suggestions for best fitness trackers in 2020.



Here are my suggestions:

  • If you want an accurate tracker to measure long-distance running, you have to choose the Garmin Running Dynamics Pod.

  • If you want to measure your walking, the 3D TriSport Walking Clip On Pedometer is a must buy.

  • If you want to measure daily workouts, the best tracker to get is the Fitbit Versa 2.

  • If you want the best tracker for hiking, stop everything and go snag yourself an Ulvench Fitness Tracker.

  • If you want the best tracker for daily wear, get the Fitbit Charge 2. It’s like a personable workout instructor in the form of a fitness tracker.

  • If you want a tracker that’ll measure anything needed for sport-related activities, the Garmin Forerunner 735 XT is the best option out there.
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Mike has a PhD in Engineering and is currently a Scientist in an international research institute. He is 39 and loves researching about interaction of light with solid materials. Application of his research includes but not limited to solid state lighting, white-light emitting diodes (LED)photodetectors and optoelectronic devices

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