I’ve been wanting a fitbit for about a year. Ever since I started seeing update statuses on Facebook showing the number of steps my friends were taking each day. At every update, I started to buy one, but every time I did I pulled back; reminding myself that it’d just be like every other fitness thing I’ve bought. I’d purchase it and put it aside and never use it.
fitbit one – How It Works
But I was wrong. I’ve worn my fitbit one since the moment I received it from Best Buy to review (I also purchased one that I’ll be giving away – it’s that good!). With the exception of showering, it’s attached to me at all times. Granted, I almost washed it 3 times already by leaving it attached to my clothing which I tossed in the dirty clothes, but other than that I’m a convert. This is by far the best tracker I’ve tried because of the Wi-Fi aspect. I used a different electronic pedometer last year for a few weeks and hated that I had to connect it to my computer every day. I wanted instant feedback and eventually I just stopped using it.
With the fitbit one, I only have to connect it to my computer every 3-4 days when the battery needs to be charged (a note on my dashboard tells me when it’s time). It recharges quickly and I’m back up and running in no time. But better yet, my stats are updated via Wi-Fi so there’s nothing I need to do and it’s instant! I get feedback several times a day about how I’m doing both on my dashboard and on the device itself.
I use the web based dashboard to check my stats, set goals, and track my mood. It’s convenient for me since I work on a notebook 10 hours or more a day. Those of you that are more mobile, there’s a free mobile app which syncs it via Bluetooth Both have slightly different features and I find I prefer the web dashboard, but I love that I have the option. Especially when travelling.
Rewards
The fitbit one encourages me to do more by awarding me badges for the number of steps and the pounds lost (by the way, I’ve lost 12 pounds since January 1st!). It was super simple to set up, to use, and to track and I love how low-profile it is. It easily clips to my bra so no one even knows I’m wearing it.
It also sends me a weekly stat check via email. It includes my weekly total for steps taken, total distance, total calories burned, my calories in vs out (for those tracking calories also), weight change, and sleep averages. The information is really interesting and while it’s always available through my dashboard, I look forward to the weekly recap as a way of starting the next one off fresh.
Tracking my Sleep
At night I remove it from its daytime clip and slip it into a nighttime wrist wrap that’s comfortable and within minutes I forget I’m wearing it. It tracks my movements and with my help (setting the time I get into bed and then get out in the morning), it tells me how many hours I slept and how many hours I was restless. It’s been really eye opening about my bedtime habits and it helps me to work at being more regular with my sleep schedule.
Synching with Popular Websites
I’ve also synced my fitbit one with my MyFitnessPal account. The two combine into one really powerful weight loss aid and I’m loving the features of both. It also syncs with other popular sites on the web to give you a total package.
But you don’t have to sync to get the full benefits. The fitbit.com website is pretty comprehensive and there’s an upgraded paid version available as well. It all about personalizing your experience so you can be successful.
fitbit is releasing with a new bracelet version this fall. I’ll be buying one. Yes, I’m that sure it’s going to help.
Please note: The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.
I see more about this product and others like it in the news. Using a pedometer seems to make you try to beat your steps and walk more. Measuring your progress and writing it down (or feeding it to the computer) keeps you on track and makes you more accountable for your actions towards a health goal.
I have been reading a lot about this and it looks like so much fun to use! I am sure it would motivate me if I had one. I walk a lot during the day but it would be interesting to really see how far I am walking.
I’m curious how the FitBit Flex will be (the wristband version of the product). I preordered mine and am anxious to receive it. Thanks for your thoughts!
I’ll be ordering the wrist version as well. I think it’s genius!
I am edging towards getting a Fitbit One… we’ll see… I love the idea, but I have a lot of gadgets already… great review though
I am not active as well but I think this should remind me how important it is to be! Will look into this!
never heard of this before… sounds like something worth checking out, thanks for the review !!!
I’m considering getting one of these – it seems like everyone is talking about it right now! I love how it tracks both your activity and your sleep. Thank you for the review.
I gave my mom one today. It’s a fabulous tool to get loved ones to walk more.
My doctor wants me walk more, this could help.
I have heard so much lately about the fitbit. Apparently it is the new thing that EVERYONE has.. If I were more active, it would be a great thing! Would love to track my sleeping habits though… Now THAT would be interesting!
I’m not very active but it encourages me to be more active.
great review, i want one of these, so cool how it keeps track of everything, thanks for the graet post
I’m loving it.
This is a cool gadget. I have never heard of it until now.
This looks very involved to me . Thank you. jerri Davis
It’s really easy to use – promise! I’m loving seeing just how many miles I walk in a day and I’m challenged to do more. I also love seeing how well I slept (or didn’t!) 🙂