I like to think of technology as my personal trainer. Hi-tech gadgets and gizmos are revolutionizing the fitness world and making it easier than ever to set goals, optimize workouts, and track results. Technology also means convenience which is key for moms. Wireless Bluetooth, sync-able online programs, customization, and other touch-of-a-button features make working out easier than ever. So, no more excuses—get plugged in and get ready to sweat!
Here are 6 of the best tech finds for everyone from active moms and athletes to those aspiring to lose a few inches. No guarantees that they will tighten your abs overnight or magically bring back your “pre-baby” bod, but they definitely make sweating and suffering through the last few miles of your run a lot more fruitful and fun.
FITBIT WIRELESS ACTIVITY SLEEP WRISTBAND
Fitness wristbands earned widespread buzz with the release of the Nike FuelBand. The FitBit does most of the same things but is more affordable and sleeker which makes it a nice choice for women. It monitors sleep, calories burned, steps taken, and more. The online interface is user-friendly and syncs with fitness and diet apps like MyFitnessPal, LoseIt! and MapMyRun. For those who want to track their personal fitness stats on a daily basis, this tech wonder does the job.
Cost: around $100
Learn more here.
TIMEX T5K541 PERSONAL TRAINER HR
Whether your workouts take place in a gym or on the open road, monitoring your heart rate is a must. To make sure you are reaching your goals and exercising safely, invest in a heart-rate monitor. This Timex is affordable (other models can cost upwards of $200) and receives solid reviews. One of the nicest features is that it communicates with fitness equipment so you can view your heart rate on a treadmill or stationary bike at the gym.
Cost: around $30
Learn more here.
iPOD NANO
Never underestimate the power of a good song to keep you going during those grueling workouts! Music is an incredible motivational tool and the best way to get your groove on is with the iPod Nano. This super slim device is about the size of a credit card, making it perfect for runners and bikers. It also comes with built-in Nike+ which allows users to connect with others online, compare workouts, share victories, and even throw out fitness challenges to friends. For those who use online workout videos, the latest Nano accommodates videos and has built-in Bluetooth so you can wirelessly connect to headphones or heart-rate monitors.
Cost: $149 (and worth every penny!)
Learn more here.
JAYBIRD BLUEBUDS X SPORT BLUETOOTH HEADPHONES
Once you’re equipped with an iPod Nano (in your choice of fashionable colors) and have loaded it with a sweat-worthy array of cool tunes, you need the right headphones to complete the audio package. Styles range from futuristic-looking headsets to over-the-ear headphones and simple earbuds. It’s important to find something comfortable, above all, or you’ll end your workout with a headache. JayBird’s wireless sport headphones are not cheap (cost is around $140) but for avid runners or those who work out 5 or more days a week, they are a great investment. Good-looking, hi-tech, and skip-free, the JayBird BlueBuds allow you to rock out to Sheryl Crowe in style.
Cost: around $150
Learn more here.
FITBIT ARIA WI-FI SMART SCALE
That’s right—bathroom scales have gone smart! The Fitbit Aria not only covers the basics, measuring weight, body fat and BMI (body mass index), it automatically uploads your info to your online Fitbit dashboard via Wi-Fi. From there, you can track your gains and losses, evaluate your progress, and set goals. The Aria is even smart enough to know the difference between you and your hubby. It recognizes as many as 8 different users so it’s ideal for fitness-minded couples or families. At a cost of around $130, Fitbit’s brainy little machine may seem like a splurge, but in the battle of the bulge, it is money well spent.
Cost: around $130
Learn more here.
BODYROCK.TV
This is the online stop for anyone who wants intense daily video workouts … for free. The addictive BodyRock site is filled with over 600 challenging fitness videos that will leave you sweating and exhausted—but one look at the toned-and-sexy girls leading the workouts and you’ll be convinced to stick with it. Start with the 30-day challenge which walks you through the program and how to use it—there are plenty of safety tips, suggestions on how to scale back exercises that are too difficult, and even food plans. Plus, be sure to check out the 12-minute HIIT circuits—great for moms with no time to spare.
Cost: Free (mostly—there are lots of free resources on this one as well as paid content)
Learn more here.
