A Guide to the Fitbit Wireless Activity Tracker

It’s a simple fact that most of us don’t get enough exercise. According to one piece of research published by the U.S. Department of Human Health Services, less than five percent of adults participate in 30 minutes or more of daily physical activity.

A sedentary lifestyle can lead to various health risks such as an increased risk of cancer, obesity, and heart disease.

The makers of the Fitbit wireless activity tracker understand the importance of a good workout. That’s why they’ve created a line of smart, easy to use fitness trackers for everyday use.

Yet there are so many models to choose from, how can you make sure you’re getting the best tracker? And for that matter, what does each model do to justify its premium price?

Both are fair questions which this article aims to answer. Here’s a quick guide to the world of Fitbit wireless activity trackers.

Types of Fitbit Wireless Activity Tracker

Picking your first activity tracker can feel a bit overwhelming. There are about a dozen different models out there, and not all are worth your time and money.

Here are the three most popular models of Fitbit tracker and the advantages and disadvantages that come with them.

Fitbit Charge 2

The Charge 2 is perhaps the most popular model on the market. And a few minutes with the device will show you exactly why that’s the case.

Think of it as a half-step between a fitness tracker and a smartwatch. It’s stylish, but it’s also practical.

It features a comfortable, easy to wear band. For the most part, the band doesn’t irritate skin, though if you’re uncomfortable, you can always adjust it.

The Charge 2’s display is perhaps its highlight. This is the most feature-rich model on the market, and choosing between modes and options is easy thanks to its high-quality display.

Battery life leaves a bit to be desired, lasting on average between four and five days. A search of ‘Fitbit Charge not charging‘ also shows that its first run had a few issues.

Fitbit Blaze

Though maybe you’re in the market for something that truly resembles a smartwatch. If that’s the case, the Blaze is a great option.

If the Charge 2 was a half-step between tracker and watch, leaning in favor of fitness tracker, the Blaze leans the opposite way.

In fact, its design is quite similar to that of the popular Apple Watch.

However, the Blaze does have its share of issues. Namely, it’s a little too cumbersome for its own good. It’s rather wide, as Cnet’s review pointed out.

If you’re not worried about weighing down your wrist, you’ll find an adequate tracker with a lengthy, five-day battery life.

Fitbit Flex 2

Last but not least is the Fitbit Flex 2. A quick glance illustrates that it’s quite a bit different than its siblings. There’s virtually no display present whatsoever, but that’s actually its selling point.

The Flex 2 is for those who want a no-frills Fitbit wireless activity tracker experience.

It’s easy to get distracted by constantly checking your steps or your heart rate. The Flex 2 eliminates this issue with its minimalist design.

Best of all, it’s water-resistant, a feature it holds above its siblings’ heads.

If you’ve never purchased an activity tracker before and want a simple experience, we recommend the Flex 2.

What Can a Fitbit Wireless Activity Charger Do?

Having explored the three most popular Fitbit models, let’s get into what you’re really here for, the features.

While there are slight variations from model to model, each of the features below are present in all three models.

Connect to Your Phone

No matter what model of Fitbit you choose, you’ll get access to the Fitbit mobile app. Think of it as a centralized hub for all of your activities.

This easy to use app syncs with your device via a Bluetooth connection. Admittedly, sometimes it takes a little longer than expected to sync, but it always gets the job done.

A quick tour of the UI illustrates that everything you’d want can be found on the dashboard.

You can keep track of your steps, weight loss, sleep, and even water intake all from the homepage.

However, there are a ton of great features tucked away within the app’s interface.
For instance, the Fitbit app doubles as a calorie tracker akin to MyFitnessPal or LoseIt!.

You can also set alarms and tinker with display options without meddling with your display.

Track Sleep

A good night’s rest is as important as a big workout. Make sure you’re getting both thanks to your Fitbit wireless activity tracker.

Since most people wear their device like a watch, Fitbit included sleep tracking software so users can make sure they’re catching enough Zs.

It’s a surprisingly effective feature that’s even capable of recognizing when you’re taking naps as opposed to a full night’s rest.

Display Phone Notifications

Truth be told, we could all use a bit of time away from our phones. But most of us are worried about missing important texts or calls.

Your Fitbit device finds a happy medium, displaying SMS notifications and sending call alerts.

A gentle buzzing informs the user that he or she has received a notification. You can even see who is texting or calling, as well as read the first few words of their text message.

Track Activity

Finally, yes, your Fitbit is primarily an activity tracker.

For all of the bells and whistles it includes, it’s primary function is something it does quite well.

You can track your daily distance and step progress, and in the case of the Charge 2, even route your workout via GPS.

For those who don’t get enough steps in during the workday, there’s a fun option to set hourly reminders to get up and walk. It may sound intrusive, but it’s actually a fun way to gamify exercise.

Find a Fitbit That Fits

Clearly, there are tons of great reasons to purchase a Fitbit wireless activity tracker. There’s a model for every lifestyle, so find the one that suits you best.

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