The World Health Organization's report shows that 31% of the annual global deaths, evolves as a result of heart-related diseases. The high incidence of these (cardiovascular) diseases has been largely attributed to factors revolving around lifestyle and dietary trends. It is in view of this that I have elected to briefly discuss the subject matter while also considering the use of fitness gadgets which are very effective in helping an individual meet his/her fitness goals thus promoting healthy living.
As the awareness on the dangers unhealthy lifestyle trends portend begin to pick, many have become more careful about what- and how- they eat. Plus, some persons now incorporate regular physical exercises into their routine. But one cannot be oblivious of the fact that not everyone has got the time to go on a workout regularly, and that is where the danger often lies. Furthermore, the hours spent at work make it a bit difficult to go on a regular medical checkup. Putting all these into consideration, it becomes kind of necessary to have- in the mold of a handy gadget- that will function as a personal health/fitness monitor.
Fitness gadgets come in varying designs and sizes.
The most commonly used ones are fitness/activity trackers which are usually integrated Bluetooth technology thus making it possible to pair them with smartphones or any other compatible device- in order to get information on one's status through the app [that must have been installed]. While some of these trackers can keep track of basic biometric parameters such as heart rate, calories burned, BMI and breathing rate, some others do more by taking record of certain intricate activities like brainwaves [in order to determine trends such as sleep pattern] and muscle activities thus presenting holistic analysis of a person's health status.
Most fitness gadgets come in form of wearables such as wristlets, earphones or even apparels integrated with specific technology that will make them to function uniquely. The design of these devices make them quite easy to have on the body while on the go. Some examples of such gadgets include Fitbit Blaze Smart Fitness Watch, Jabra Sport Pulse Wireless Headphones and so on.
Besides the wearable gadgets, there are others in the mold of an assistive personal health devices that enable an individual know his/her state of health. Hence helping the individual take necessary action(s) and avert impending dangers that might befall the body in the course of time. Like other fitness gadgets, these health-monitoring devices can be synced with smartphones. Although devices such as the digital blood pressure- and glucose level- monitors have since become valuable in some Nigerian homes, others [like the iHealth Rhythm] that offer more in the way of checking temperature, making accurate diagnosis [based on patient's health history] and then giving prescriptions- some even go as far as setting up video consultation with a licensed doctor- should be introduced to the market in Nigeria.
However, the challenge is that most of these gadgets can be pricey as one might have to churn out well over $100- this may be on the high side for the average Nigerian who really needs one. Nonetheless, considering that the greatest wealth anyone could ever wished for, is good health, then the investment is worth it. Again, the gadgets are not very much available in the country- only a few fitness stores have them; this may not be unconnected to the unfamiliarity of the Nigerian populace of all these fitness gizmos.
It is important that Nigerians- especially the working class- start using fitness gadgets more often than not. This would go a long way in ensuring that we have a healthy (-ier) society, and this can in turn bring about increased productive as individuals cut down on certain unhealthy habits, and also optimally get the most out of their exercise routine. Over and above all, discipline is key!