We’re Life Hackers
The popularity of wearable devices like Fitbit is fueled by the addictive logic of the quantified selfmovement if we can collect enough data about our daily routines, we can tweak our behavior to live healthier and be happier. Living a better life doesn’t have to mean dramatic changes getting a new job, moving to a new city, cutting out carbs (no!) it can be as simple as taking 1,000 more steps every day and sleeping 20 more minutes each night.
This is the life hacker mentality, in which everything can be improved and upgraded for maximum performance, including ourselves. Wearable devices provide us with concrete data about the minutia of our daily routines. They can tell you exactly how long you’ve been sitting, sleeping, biking, running or standing. And based on what’s “healthy” for someone your age, height, and weight, you can set goals to improve on those numbers.
We’re Competitive
Motivation is key to any successful fitness routine. It’s what drags you out of bed on a cold winter morning to hit the gym before work. And it’s what convinces you to skip that second slice of cake at the office birthday party. But motivation can be hard to maintain.
That’s where competition comes in. Some of the top wearables for fitness have built-in systems for challenging and competing against friends (and strangers) to reach fitness goals.
We Want to Look Cool
Google does a lot of things very, very well: intuitive Web searches, glitch-free e-mail, insanely accurate online maps, stable mobile operating systems, the list goes on. But even the greatest heroes have their Achilles heel (Achilles, for one). Despite its incredible success, in the minds of most Americans, Google will always be a big nerd.
Google Glass was supposed to be Google’s revolutionary entry into the world of wearable technology. Introduced in 2013 as a limited beta release, Google Glass was hailed as the first mass-produced smart glasses, letting users search and browse the Web, get directions, take photos and video, all with a tap of the finger or a simple voice command.
We Need a Coach
“You call that a push up? Pick up the pace! One more lap, full speed!”
Anyone else having gym class flashbacks? The truth is that when it comes to staying motivated to exercise, we can all use a strong push. One of the greatest benefits of wearing a fitness tracking device is that it can continuously remind you of your fitness goals and motivate/guilt you into achieving them.[related-posts]
Perks Trump Privacy
Wearable devices collect enormous amounts of personal data. And by syncing these devices with our smartphones, we’re uploading reams of highly personal information about our every move, nap and meal into the cloud.
For most of us, the convenience of wearable fitness trackers trumps any concerns over information privacy. In fact, we’re willing to give away even more personal data if it comes with a perk.
