Reviewed by Kacey Wilson, Contributing Editor If you're celebrating summer with a renewed dedication to fitness, you'll need something to help you stay on track. From motivation to measurement, today's latest technology can keep you moving as you set and achieve realistic goals. Here's a sampling of the different fitness gadgets that can help you maintain your stride without breaking your budget.
Steady Rhythm, Steady Heart
Tracking your heart rate can help you understand if you're pushing yourself too hard, or not hard enough. Next time you hit the trail, wear a heart monitor to track your heart rate. Most models include a sensor worn on your chest and a wristwatch so you can see your progress on the run. Once you calculate your maximum heart rate, this set will help you make sure you're not pushing yourself too hard. Prices range from $60 to $130 and up.
Every Little Step
Looking for small, incremental goals that build to a long-term benefit? Wear a pedometer to see how many steps you take today, and push yourself to increase that number tomorrow. By simply walking with this small wonder, you can set incremental goals and slowly go from 3,500 steps (average for low activity) to 5 miles a day. Remember, 2,000 steps are roughly equal to 1 mile. Pedometer prices range from simple $5 models to more complex, feature-rich $60 units.
In Tune, on Track
We've come a long way from the clunky, portable tape players. The latest MP3 technology helps you take more than music with you on a daily walk. You can download everything from complete audiobooks to daily podcasts, making each fitness program a chance to get the latest news or catch up with your favorite author. You also can make a new playlist for every day to make each trip new and fresh. Portable MP3 players come in every shape, size, and price. Most players range from $50 to more than $200, depending on how many songs you want to store. Your mobile phone may even play MP3 files, if you want to try out the technology before you buy a player.
Before you go shopping, think about your personal fitness goals to find the gadget that's right for you. There's a whole world of fitness technology to help you stay focused and motivated, from MP3 players to basic stopwatches. With a wide range of prices and functions, you're sure to find something to help you stay on track.