We know you look to us for credibility in both fitness and nutrition. Which is why we have to keep it real (as we always do) when it comes to the phenomenon known as the FitBit.
The truth is, our country is facing a national obesity epidemic. And while it’s mostly unspoken, it’s on the rise. Producing a device to be worn watch-style that tracks your steps, your sleep, and in some cases, even what you’re eating (if you use the tool to its fullest potential), was a smart move by its creators, don’t get us wrong. But while it’s a great way to ensure you’re staying relatively active, we’re here to tell you that if you’re looking to get in the best shape of your life, and reach your truest fitness potential, the FitBit simply won’t get you there.
As a Coach on our Team so eloquently put it, “FitBits are anti-atrophy, not pro-fitness.”
Wow.
That’ll put a damper on those 6-pack fantasies.
Now, we’re keeping it real, so before you get your sports bra in a wad, know this: We have nothing against FitBits, and in fact, we totally dig them for folks simply looking to increase their level of activity. ESPECIALLY those who work a sedentary job and/or live a sedentary lifestyle.
But if you’re an injury-free individual looking to truly get into the best shape of your life, consider spending that $150ish on something with proven results, such as a Challenge Pack (proven fitness program, Shakeology and nutritional help, along with an accountability group and private Coach), instead. Of course that’s our plug, but we want to make a point:
It’s much easier to wear a cute FitBit on your wrist (it’s the “in” thing to do these days), than it is to truly commit to getting fit. Moving and achieving the benchmark of 10,000 steps is a great activity goal; it just shouldn’t be considered your fitness goal.
We believe in getting stronger, through resistance training.
We believe in strengthening the heart, through cardiovascular exercise.
We believe in increasing flexibility, through Pilates or yoga.
We believe in moving your body at a whole new level.
Which is why, when clients come to us and say, “Oh, I think I’ll just start on my goals by using my FitBit,” it often brings a response from us of “Noooooo!” We want you to see results and achieve those goals, and we know, based on our own success and experience in our own life and with our customers, that you’re going to need to up your game.
You’re going to need to do something beyond the realm of the FitBit, and incorporate both fitness AND nutrition.
I know, it’s hard to accept.
FitBit “stepping” is the fad thing to do, especially when you’re competing for steps with a friend or family member. We’re not saying to not do it; we’re just saying to let it be your baseline. By doing so, by using it as a nonnegotiable, friendly competition method for getting yourself more active and also incorporating that strength/resistance/cardio training we mentioned before, you’ll rock those goals like a boss.
We’re proud of you for taking the first step (pun intended), and we’re also here to keep it real in telling you that it should merely be your jumping off point. The time is now to take control of your health… 10,000 steps are awesome. Becoming fit is even more awesome. Let’s do both.
Yours in Health & Fitness,
Jenny L. Swisher
CPT/FNS, Founder of Body Electric