Every fitness journey has to start somewhere. It’s not easy. In fact, getting to a shape and weight that makes you happy can be a battle – one full of disappointment, pain, and misery. But it can be done. What it takes is focus and a helping hand – which could mean some tech-based assistance.
There are plenty of products on the market that can also make your journey a little easier. Everything from running watches to protein powders can be used to your advantage. Another item that could make a difference is a smart scale. Stepping on one of thesr could be the first step towards your ultimate fitness goals.
Whether you’re resolving to get in seriously good shape or just trying to watch your weight, it’s time to ditch your old analog device and upgrade to a smart scale.
What are smart scales?
Before you jump ahead and start shopping, it’s worth explaining why these scales are so smart.
Analog scales only measure your weight — which is fine if that’s all you need. Smart scales provide you with loads of extra data to help you tailor your weight-loss plan, with apps or online services to track various metrics and store information for you. Most of the apps are compatible with other fitness apps such as Fitbit, Apple Health, and Google Fit, so you can sync your data to provide a clearer picture of your progress. It’s easy to see how smart scales could provide the motivation to lose, maintain, or gain weight.
Once you step on the scale, your information is recorded and sent to an accompanying app. Most of these apps track your progress in charts and let you to set goals for yourself. The ability to see your goals and see where you are in terms of achieving them can motivate you in ways that jotting down your weight simply cannot.
What should you consider before buying a smart scale?
Finding the right smart scale for you depends on which metrics you want to track, which features are most important to you, and your medical history. Some scales use bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) technology to measure body composition. This technology uses electrical currents to gather measurements, so you should consult your doctor if you are pregnant or have a pacemaker before hopping on.
The number of measurements tracked varies from scale to scale. Some will only track a handful of metrics, like weight, body fat, lean mass, and body mass index (BMI). Others, such as the RENPHO scale, track 13 different body composition metrics. Some of these measurements might not be necessary for you to track, and if you are just casually trying to watch your weight, you probably don’t need a scale that tracks your bone mass and skeletal muscle.
What is the ideal weight?
There is not a one-size-fits-all answer to this, because it depends your size and various factors, such as age, muscle-fat ratio, height, sex, and body shape. The best way to determine whether you’re at a healthy weight is to measure your BMI (body mass index). A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. A BMI over 30 is considered obese. BMI measurement is a standard feature on smart scales.
It’s important to not obsess over these numbers though, because everyone has a different set of circumstances that may influence where you fall on the scale. The most important thing to remember is that you’re on your own fitness journey, and things take time. Focus on feeling fitter and healthier, and the rest will fall into place.
Which app do you need for smart scales?
The app you need will vary depending on the smart scale you purchase. Some will need you to download and use a specific app, while others will have universal compatibility that syncs with popular fitness apps such as Fitbit, Nike+, and Google Fit.
Make sure you check this out before making any purchase, because this could result in extra costs.
What is the best smart scale?
There’s a whole world of smart scales out there – and lots of brands you’ve probably never come across. You might feel more comfortable going with a brand you know, such as Fitbit or Garmin. These are well-trusted, top-of-the-range fitness tech manufacturers and their smart scales sync with their other devices. Other popular smart scale brands include Withings, Eufy, and RENPHO. Tanita is another brand to consider. It makes a range of models, from low-tech basic scales to hi-tech devices geared towards specific fitness goals.
We’ve scoured the internet and tracked down some of the very best smart scales from some of top brands around. There should be something for everyone and every budget in this list. All you need to do is pick a favourite.
These are the best smart scales in 2021.
