According to research gathered by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), it’s estimated that over 40 million personal health and wellness devices were sold in 2013 and that number is expected to rise to more than 70 million by 2018.
Why the extraordinary growth? Connected fitness tracking devices, more commonly known as wearable tech, is a major factor to the surge in this category. Wearables help users track everything from daily activity such as steps taken, to sleep patterns, heart rate and even calories burned. They can be extremely beneficial for the health and happiness of your customers as well as your business. Although many types of models and brands are being released, CEA research also indicates that many consumers are mostly unaware of this category. According to CEA, “It is not unusual for owners or purchase intenders to be aware of other people using a wearable fitness device, and this often serves as a starting point for their interest.”
You can help cultivate customer interest by educating your staff on the health benefits of wearable tech. Consider making a dedicated ‘wellness’ space in your store with signage and displays to spark interest. Have your sales team sport fitness devices to make the conversations about wearable tech more genuine. Make sure they try out models in their own fitness routines, so they can share their experiences with customers.
With so much wearable tech flooding the marketplace, we’ve broken down the top three categories to help get you warmed up.
Digital Pedometer/Activity Trackers
While more traditional versions of these trackers have been around for years, the digital pedometer and activity trackers have received a major face-lift in design and functionality. Basic models like the Omron Tri-Axis Pedometer can track multiple modes of activity including steps, aerobic steps, distance and calories burned. The pedometer stores up to seven days of data collected and its tri-axis technology means each step is accurately recorded, wherever the pedometer is positioned. What makes pedometers like the Omron so popular is its ability to connect online. Via the USB, users can connect to OmronFitness.com to track results, set goals and share victories. Even the most basic pedometers and activity trackers include this feature, which helps users stay more motivated than before. Then there are models like the Pyle Waterproof Pedometer and Lap/Calorie Counter with MP3 Player. While this version does not include USB options, it’s superior to past models in that it tracks distance, time, steps taken and even calories consumed. It also allows users to listen to music via MP3, WMA and WAV formats. Even better? The device and the included headphones are waterproof certified, meaning users can not only swim while listening to music but track their activity at the same time. For those who need extra motivation, there’s the Striiv Smart Pedometer. Like most pedometers, the Striiv tracks steps, distance and calories. But what makes it smart is that it’s always on, tracking users daily movement. It also features built-in charts, apps and even games to make activity more fun.
Heart Rate Monitoring
According to the CEA report, 29% of mobile phone users with health problems would try an easy-to-use device to track their health condition and progress toward a goal. While there are a plethora of smartphone apps to track and monitor fitness, many users would prefer a separate device solely to track health and wellness. Wearable heart rate monitors are especially popular with people who have health issues and are working towards wellness goals. Fit these customers in the Pyle 1-Button Heart Rate Watch, Omron Strap-Free Heart Rate Monitor or Skechers Go Walk Pulsebandz. Some models like the Pyle Heart Rate Watch include a traditional style chest strap to monitor current, maximum and average heart rates while other models like the Omron and Skechers watches do not. Then there’s the Lifetrak Zone Watch. It features an ECG accurate heart rate, hourly and weekly graphs, workout modes, is iOS 6 and up compatible and even monitors sleep quality. Plus, this watch is great for customers who like to personalize their accessories. The band is reversible allowing for two different color options and additional bands can be purchased separately for even more color variety. The watch itself features a sleek, slim design that can be worn comfortably throughout the day so it’s not limited for workout use only. Knowing the difference in each wearable model is key to best fit your customer’s individual needs.
GPS Sports Watches
These wearables are the winning trifecta when it comes to fitness and wellness tracking. Most models track activity, heart rate and integrate GPS for outdoor training routines. High-end models like the Garmin Forerunner 310XT allow users to automatically transfer data collected to a computer, train with a Virtual Partner®, track heart rate zones and much more. Then there are models like the Magellan Echo™ Fitness Watch that is designed to work with a variety of leading fitness apps. Users can see real time data from an app to the watch while still controlling apps and their music remotely from their smartphone. The watch also includes a Bluetooth®-smart heart rate monitor and is water resistant. This particular watch also runs off a coin cell battery, which is important to note since some wearables must be charged via a USB.
According to an ABI Research release, Principle Analyst Jonathan Collins said, “Sports, fitness, and well-being applications will be the key engine of growth in the wearable wireless healthcare market as demand for a new wave of devices will be driven not just by growing consumer interest and awareness but also by increased competition and support for a raft of new applications.”
Don’t let the number of options in wearable tech keep you from taking advantage of this rapidly growing category. Add to the knowledge you’ve gained here with hands-on familiarity and take the lead selling products in this great category. Speak to your Petra representative today to discover the wearable tech products now available.