Fitness tracker reviews

A fitness tracker can be a big motivator when it comes to upping your exercise levels. We took some popular devices for a test run.
Published 21 August 2016

We review the latest wearable fitness tech

The following devices are compatible with the WeightWatchers® app. That means that when you connect them to your WW account, the steps you do will automatically convert into FitPoints®.

Garmin Vivoactive HR


"I attended the launch of this new device where I was given one to try while working out. It was cool to watch my heart rate rise and fall during the workout. This tracker looks like a funky sports watch and has a large, easy-to-navigate touch screen that you can personalise when you download the Connect IQ app. I love it!"
– Sara, WW Magazine Content Coordinator
Available at: www.garmin.com.au

Top features

  • GPS smartwatch, sunlight-readable, high-resolution colour touchscreen
  • Built-in sports apps include GPS-enabled running, biking, swimming and more (no phone connection required)
  • Customise with free watch face designs, widgets and apps
  • Receive smart notifications and smart coaching from Garmin Connect™ when paired with your phone
  • Up to 3 weeks battery life

Fitbit Alta


"I used to have a Fitbit Charge HR, but prefer the Alta because of its sleeker design. Also, it comes with an interchangeable wrist band so you can match it to your outfit. Like most devices, the Alta allows you to track your workout, count your steps and hit exercise goals, plus it nudges you to do more when you’ve been still for too long. I loved tapping into the Fitbit community and linking up with my son who was using my Charge HR."
– Jillian, WW Magazine Features Editor
Available at: www.fitbit.com/au

Top features

  • SmartTrack™ - automatically recognises and records exercises for you
  • Track steps, distance, calories burned, active minutes, hourly activity & stationary time
  • Friendly reminders to move
  • Long Battery Life - 5 full days and nights
  • Auto Sleep Tracking
  • Syncs wirelessly to computers and 200+ devices and apps.
  • Silent vibrate Alarms
  • Call, Text & Calendar Alerts
  • Slimmer appearance
  • Comparably cheaper than the Garmin

Should I get a fitness-tracking device?


Some people love them, some people hate them. But a recent study from Boston University has found that wearable devices and mobile health technology may help with weight loss when used in combination with an overall health plan that includes behavioural strategies. Exercise physiologist Drew Harrisberg tells us how he uses his smart watch.

Why do you like using a fitness-tracking device?


“You have this real-time feedback on your wrist that tells you what your heart rate is doing. It’s an important tool for my health. I wear one because, among other things, it can be an indication of how much I’ve recovered from a workout and my readiness to perform another.”

What other functions do you think are important?


“I like the fact that it can count your steps. I am always checking my steps! I also use it for sleep sometimes. Generally, I don’t like sleeping with a watch on but I do occasionally check my sleep patterns to see how much proper sleep I am getting.”

Are there any downsides to having a wearable device?


“I do think that when people have smart watches or fitness-tracking devices, they can get a little fixated with checking it all the time. So it’s important to look out for that.”