I used to run with the Garmin Forerunner. But it was just too big and clunky for my taste. The software was also a let down.
These days I workout with Nike+ and the iPhone. It’s a fun way to keep track of my runs. But I don’t always carry the iphone with me and you can’t keep the app running in the background – and with limited battery capacity, I’m not sure I would want to do that anyway.
On Friday, I received the Fitbit.
FIitbit is a tiny device that you wear and it keeps track of your movements all day long. An easy way to think about Fitbit is as a fancy connected pedometer. But I believe it’s more than that.
First, it’s very cool looking. It’s also really tiny, battery lasts forever and the UI is clean and well done on the device.
But the best part – it’s an internet connected device. Set up is very simple and then after that everytime the fitbit comes close to the (included) cradle it will send data to your online profile.
The website is cool. Simple charts, stats & analytics are built in. You can also compete or just compare your fitness habits with friends. I think building social stuff into health products like this make so much sense.
As you can see I’m just getting started. I didn’t bring it with me camping this weekend because we left at the crack of dawn and I accidently left it at home (total bummer). I plan on keeping fitbit with me everywhere I go.
Fitbit also comes with a wrist strap so you can monitor your sleep history. I plan on doing that this week. I’m extremely curious to know how well I’m sleeping these days. I have a hunch but I’d rather see the data :)