Data Wearables or Activity Trackers: How, What, and Why

There are many activity trackers or data wearable devices available to choose from if you are interested in tracking and analyzing your personal health and fitness information. These devices are available in different forms such as smart rings, chest straps, smartwatches, and wrist devices. These devices measure various combinations of personal data such as heart rate, blood pressure, sleep, activity levels, blood sugar levels, body temperature, breathing rate, and heart rate variability (HRV).

There are many studies that have analyzed the accuracy of data wearable devices. The range of inaccuracy has been estimated from 5-50% depending upon the device and the specific research study. Data trends, such as increases or decreases, are generally regarded as relatively accurate (e.g., HRV decreases during illness). The absolute scores or numbers (e.g., duration of nighttime sleep) are usually where the inaccuracy occurs.