St. Anthony Physician Talks Fitness Trackers and Their Usefulness

Fitness devices are on the rise as companies have upgraded from the average clip on pedometer, to gadgets that calculate not only the steps you take, but the miles you travel, the calories you burn, how much you sleep and more. The list of advanced features could go on and on, but the real question is, how helpful are these devices? Do they actually help us meet our healthy goals?

1. “The usefulness of fitness tracking devices depends upon the extent that they are being utilized,” said Adam Gardner, M.D., Family Medicine, St. Anthony Physicians Group. “They can be great motivational tools to encourage physical activity. They can also provide good feedback for users, helping them to modify their physical activity levels.”
2. In the fitness device world, 10,000 steps is the magic number that everyone should reach, but why? “The physical activity guidelines put forth by the CDC recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity at least five days a week. The 10,000 steps goal is roughly equivalent to a total of 30 minutes of physical activity,” said Dr. Gardner.
3. While 10,000 steps is a great goal to strive for, it’s definitely not a one size fits all kind of goal. “Depending on an individual’s situation and choice of activity, one may need less or potentially more than 10,000 steps in one day to achieve the recommended physical activity goals,” stated Dr. Gardner. “Also keep in mind that the CDC recommendations include muscle strengthening activities at least 2 days a week, and these activities may not be captured in step counting. However, any goal that’s set to motivate people to be more active is a good goal in my opinion,” he added.
4. So, how do you go about finding the right fitness tracker for you? “Someone shopping for a fitness tracker may want to consider their preferred activity. For example if someone is a swimmer, then a device that is waterproof and tracks laps in the pool would be the best fit. Whereas, a cyclist might want one with GPS capability that can track their cycling,” suggested Dr. Gardner. “I use a Garmin Vivoactive HR because it can track my swimming. I average about 6,000 to 8,000 steps on most days.”

Dr. Gardner’s office is located at St. Anthony Healthplex North, 13401 N Western Ave., Suite 200, in Oklahoma City. Early and late appointments are available, to schedule an appointment please call 405-252-3450.