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.
Questions about data wearables and activity trackers
What do activity trackers measure?
Depending on the device, activity trackers and data wearables can measure heart rate, blood pressure, sleep, activity levels, blood sugar, body temperature, breathing rate and heart rate variability, or HRV. They come in several forms, including smart rings, chest straps, smartwatches and wrist devices.
How accurate are data wearables?
Accuracy varies. Studies have estimated wearable inaccuracy at anywhere from 5 to 50%, depending on the device and the research. Trends over time, such as HRV decreasing during illness, are generally regarded as relatively accurate. The absolute numbers, like how long you slept in a night, are usually where the inaccuracy shows up.