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Fitness Goals Made SMART with Wearable Technologies

Industry Trends
  • March 31 2015
  • petrablog
Fitness Goals Made SMART with Wearable Technologies

Finding Customers the Right Activity or Fitness Tracker

Helping customers reach their fitness goals can be satisfying and even profitable. The rise of wearable technology, and activity and fitness trackers more specifically, has made it easier than ever for customers to harness the power of technology to fight the battle of the bulge.

Did you know…

A Nielsen poll in December of 2014 indicated that 48% of consumers are looking for wearable fitness technology. Awareness of wearable fitness technology is on the rise with product launches by Garmin, 3Plus, and others. While some of those launches have been more successful than others, the overall buzz about these products has led to increased demand.

The three biggest drawbacks for customers are price point, wearability, and fear of obsolescence.  In an article on wearable fitness technology, Forbes Magazine indicates that these factors are the biggest drawbacks consumers have about incorporating wearable fitness technology into their lives. Armed with this knowledge about consumer objections, Petra offers a wide variety of price points, styles, and technical abilities to make sure that you can get the products that your customers want.

Fitness success starts with a S.M.A.R.T. plan. Savvy customers looking to be more successful with their fitness goals are becoming aware of Peter Drucker’s S.M.A.R.T. goal setting plan. A S.M.A.R.T. plan is “Specific, Measurable, Agreed, Realistic, and Time-Based.” Smart fitness technology makes it easy for customers to create a plan and use technology to reach their goals.

So what do your customers need? 

As mentioned above, the number one factor that keeps customers away from wearable technology is price point. For the entry-level consumer, a dedicated activity tracker is enough to give consumers valuable information at the right price. Activity trackers do not monitor as many factors as more advanced fitness bands and watches, but they do track the most important thing: how many calories the user is burning.

The Bluetooth Activity Tracker from GNC is a great example of an introductory activity tracker. This device tracks steps, distance, and calories burned. The Bluetooth connection makes it easy for the user to upload the information to a smart device or computer for accurate information. It comes with a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery for long-lasting use and with a machine-washable strap, it’s perfect for users who are on the go. At only $39.99 retail, this tracker provides information and value for consumers on the go.

Activity trackers may also chart other pieces of information. For example, the Pulsebandz from Skechers is a watch that monitors heart rate. It has a sleek and stylish design that doesn’t require a chest strap. It comes in a variety of colors, so it helps consumers find the perfect, low-profile design that fits their lifestyle and it’s extremely lightweight and comfortable to wear. This device comes in at $49.99 retail.

The most technologically advanced activity trackers can connect with popular fitness apps like Runkeeper, MyFitnessPal, and MapMyFitness. These apps help consumers keep their biometric data ordered and easily accessible. At $59.95, the Play Wireless Tracker from Striiv is an example of just such a device. Like other enry level activity trackers, this device monitors steps, stairs, distance, and calories. It’s an ultrathin device that can be attached to a belt,  pocket, purse, or other article of clothing for low-profile use. Its handy online interface makes it easy for users to post their information on social media and with a six-day battery life, the Play is perfect for weekend adventures.

For customers looking for more…

While activity trackers are great for customers who are less familiar with wearable technology, other customers need more. For those customers looking to fully integrate their biometric data into their daily life, the possibilities are growing by leaps and bounds every quarter.

One of the most trusted names in wearable fitness technology is Garmin. Garmin’s products are known for their high-quality, durability, and technological prowess. Petra offers a variety of Garmin fitness products, starting with the vivofit 2. This fitness band is designed to take the user to the next level.

It’s unique move bar technology motivates users by pointing out to them any stretch of inactivity that lasts more than one hour. The device is designed to learn about the user’s fitness level, activity level, and sleep patterns to provide personal goals and evaluations. It’s durable and designed for adventure with a water-resistance rating for 5 ATM. The add-on Heart Rate Monitor provides additional user information. And it’s easy for almost anyone to find the style that’s right for him or her, as this device comes in black, white, pink, and navy.

One of Petra’s newest offerings from Garmin is the vίvoactive Smartwatch Bundle. This smart watch is designed to do it all. While most activity trackers stop at measuring walking or running, this device measures steps, biking, and swimming measurements. It can also be used on the golf course to give distance to the hole, the dogleg, and all the other important features on the course while also keeping score. The high-resolution touchscreen makes it sunlight-readable, so user’s don’t have to wait to evaluate their outcomes. As with the vivofit, this device learns user’s activities and provides daily goals. Plus, user’s never have to worry about missing an important call or email while working out because this watch alerts the user about incoming calls, texts, emails, and calendar alerts with a simple vibration. Finally, this device is highly compatible and works with other great Garmin devices, such as the VIRB Action Camera.

The Final Word 

If your customers are looking for a leg-up in their fitness battle, wearable technology like activity trackers and fitness watches are an invaluable tool. Petra also offers a great variety of fitness accessories to add on that will help your customers achieve their goals. To find out more, check out Petra.com/fitness or call us at 1-800-997-3872.