Somatics

FitBit

Smart activity monitor

I’ve been wearing a Fitbit since late 2009 and overall I highly recommend it.

The Fitbit is expensive for a pedometer ($99), but in return you get wireless syncing of your steps to your computer and to fitbit.com. Plus you can add friends as “Fitbit buddies” to compare how many steps everyone took each week. I’m currently in a year-long competition with my brother-in-law to see who can take more steps. Inspired by the Fitbit, I will often do 1:1 meetings as a “walk and talk” around the block instead of sitting in a room. I take the stairs at work instead of the elevator. I park my car a couple hundred yards from work instead of close to the building. So far since later 2009, I’ve taken 7,715,383 steps. That’s 3000+ miles towards better health!

What’s not so good? The Fitbit costs a bit much, although I think it’s worth it. If you’re looking for something a little less expensive, try the Omron HJ-720ITC . It’s only $30 and it’s just as accurate, but you have to sync the pedometer to your computer with a cable. The Omron also doesn’t have social features.

The other (mild) issues I have with the Fitbit are that:

  • Water can short it out. Don’t go swimming with it on, and attach it somewhere that won’t get 100% drenched in sweat.
  • There’s no software for Linux (Mac and Windows, yes).
  • After six months to a year, the clip isn’t as strong. This hasn’t been a huge problem for me, as I tend to be quite hard on my Fitbits and short them out or lose them once a year or so.

Overall, I think wearing a pedometer (Fitbit or otherwise) is one of the easiest/best things you can do for your health. This tool is highly recommended.

— Matt Cutts

I use a Fitbit, too. The wireless syncing means that you don’t need to think about it. The hardest part for me is to remember to move the device if I change my pants. The simplicity of the website, and of the user interface on the object, entice you to use it, and to pay attention to the results. It is a small thing that works well and a habit that is very sustainable over the years.

— KK

02/28/12

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