Did you get a Fitbit, an Apple Watch, or a similar activity tracker for Christmas? These handy little devices are a great way to get moving and improve your health. But, the folks at Cleveland Clinic Wellness warn, you won’t see big gains unless you combine your activity tracker with a strategy. You should set goals for yourself, and you may want to consider working with a wellness coach.
“When people in a recent study used trackers without specific goals, their physical activity levels actually declined, though many believed they were getting more exercise,” the clinic says. In other words, just wearing your Fitbit isn’t enough. Choose a daily goal for yourself (like the standard 10,000 steps) and then keep track of your progress, so you can see that you’re meeting that goal. Finding a coach or trainer may help too!