In a world with more people
"plugging in" instead of going out, it can be hard to maintain a
healthy lifestyle. While the use of computers and mobile devices in exercise
receives criticism from some,
developers are finding new ways to incorporate technology into your daily
workout. Luckily, there are already some fantastic mobile applications that can
revolutionize the way you exercise.
FitBit
FitBit is an easy way to manage
workouts, food logs, and goals from your phone. Acting as a hub for all of your
fitness tracking needs, it has extra functionality when in use with a FitBit
wireless tracker. One of the major conveniences of the application is its
dashboard, where you can toggle through viewing your stats, weight trends, and
logged activities. FitBit also features an excellent food planning tool which
helps you manage your calorie intake based on your goals. The app is available
free for IPhone and Android systems.
Obstacles XRT
Obstacles XRT defeats the need to
pay for access to a specialty gym by transforming your living room into an
obstacle course. The app has a variety of different courses and programs to
choose from, focusing on working different parts of your body. The main
highlight of XRT is its calorie tracking feature, which lets you know how many
calories you've burned on each course. Obstacles XRT is available for $2 in the
iTunes Store.
Livestrong Calorie Tracker
The Livestrong Calorie Tracker is a
companion designed for weight loss and regulation. With a database of over 1
million food and restaurant items, it is the most extensive application of its
kind. You can also view the calories you've burned while exercising by
navigating through Livestrong's list of workouts. The app also features water
tracking to make sure you stay hydrated and a daily calorie intake based on
your goals. Livestrong Calorie Tracker can be found in the iTunes and Google
Play app stores for $2.99.
Fitness HD
Fitness HD is a versatile IPhone app
that sports over 700 exercises for men and women, a calorie counter, body
tracker, BMI, and 100 ready-made workouts. The app also includes a fitness
magazine and personalized workouts. With a Pro subscription you can access
video and audio instructions, add your own exercises, and get live support from
fitness professionals. Fitness HD Pro also has a plethora of social features,
where you can share your workouts and progress with your friends through
Facebook and Twitter. There is a free version of the app in the iTunes Store,
with an option to upgrade to a pro subscription
In the transition to the digital
age, some people have adopted a sedentary lifestyle. Fortunately, developers
are working hard to ensure that technology is an enhancement, and not a
hindrance, to an active way of life. With the assistance of new tech, modern
exercise is becoming the most convenient and exciting it's been in ages.
About The Author: Shawn Tremaine is a
personal trainer and health and fitness writer, and has reviewed sites like
Mind Body Mojo for their holistic resources. When he's not working on helping others
increase their health, he likes to spend it coaching his little boys soccer
team.