Nurses are some of the busiest people in the workforce today. The hours are long, the work demanding, and more often than not– exhausting. It’s not unusual for a nurse to take close to 1000 steps an hour while doing his/her job. Over the course of a 12-hour shift that comes out to close to 12,000 steps or about 5.5 miles. I think it is safe to say, that is a lot of walking.

But therein lies the question of the hour—what is the best [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit[/easyazon_link] for nurses?

I am not one, so I can’t speak from personal experience, but I am lucky enough to know quite a few. By polling some nurses and then taking to the World Wide Web for more data, I would have to say the one I heard the most positive feedback on was the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link].

Fitness trackers can now be had as one of many functions common to the average smartwatch. But for the sake of this review, I’ll be sticking to devices that advertise as [easyazon_link identifier=”B07C13XJ31″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]fitness trackers[/easyazon_link] and not smartwatches. Otherwise, there would simply be way too many options to consider.

But if you are just interested in something that can track your activity without all the bells and whistles common to smartphones, read on.

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Best Fitbit for Nurses: Fitbit Flex 2

[easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link] is the most stylish and practical tracker within the Fitbit series; which make it a must-have for those professionals with restrictions on the dress code at work who still need to track their daily activities.

It is having all the main features of the best fitness trackers, including but not limited to:

All Day Activity Tracking

Smartphone Notifications

Wireless Syncing

Auto Sleep Tracking & Silent Alarms

SmartTrack

Tracks Swimming

Interchangeable Accessories

Reminders to Move

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/317TlajhHEL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″] View on Amazon

Customer Reviews

At one website, 3,718 users left reviews for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link] and gave it an average rating of 3.7 stars (out of five).

At the Dick’s Sporting Goods website, 39 users left a review for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link] and gave it an average rating of 3.6 stars (out of five).

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”333″ identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41yoquovyQL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″] View on Amazon

Pros

• Completely waterproof: When it comes to fitness trackers, they need to be on in order to do their job. But if you forget it in your pocket after washing your hands or in your locker after a shower, you miss out. But since you don’t have to take the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link] off that isn’t an issue.
• Slim Design: The [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link] is perfect if you are the kind of person that doesn’t like to wear watches or have anything on your wrist that could be distracting to yourself or a patient.
• Good battery life: up to five days depending on how much you use your [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link].

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41uOpBX-7YL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″] View on Amazon

Cons

• No OLED screen: this allows the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link] to be waterproof, but it also means you can’t just look down at your device to see what kind of day you’ve been having.
• Heart rate not calculated: this means that your calorie count is going to rely completely on the number of steps your [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link] registers.
• No GPS capability with the Fitbit Flex 2.

The Bottom Line

This one has no bells and whistles to it. But if you are just interested in the fitness tracker aspect—the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Flex 2[/easyazon_link] is perfect. While it may be nice to know how you are doing at different times throughout your shift, the water-proof feature is worth the sacrifice in my opinion. Besides, if you really must know, pull out your phone and check out your data via the app.

I also kind of like that it looks more like a bracelet than a watch. This way, you will not have people always asking you what time it is.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”360″ identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31JOzSdXRxL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Option One: Fitbit Zip

Fitbit Zip is the best alternative for a discrete way to track the activities during the day. In many cases, nurses have restrictions due to hygiene reasons in hospitals, clinics, and alike; which make the Fitbit Zip the main option for tracking daily activities under those circumstances.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/315vpsdIkhL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″] View on Amazon

Customer Reviews

One website had 9,827 reviews for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link] with an average rating of 3.8 stars (out of five).

At Walmart.com, 89 users left reviews for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link] with an average rating of 4.4 stars (out of five).

Pros

• Small: The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link] is not on a band but is more something you clip on to our clothes. One nurse raved about it because she can clip it to her pants, shirt, bra, shoes, etc. and never miss a step.
• Accurate: It may seem kind of crazy to call the fact that a device does what it is designed to do a ‘pro,’ but many fitness trackers on the market are not that accurate. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link], however, is.
• Long-lasting battery: advertised at six months; replacement batteries available
• Water Resistant: The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link] is designed to withstand sweat, rain, and being splashed on. Since it is not designed to wear on your wrist, you don’t have to worry about washing your hands. Just don’t drop it in a puddle, the toilet, or a cup of water.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31AeRIKdjPL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″] View on Amazon

Cons

• Basic: The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link] does not have a ton of bells and whistles to it. It is one of the more basic designs of the fitness tracker niche.
• Size: The small size of the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link] makes it easy to wear almost anywhere on your person. But at the same time, it makes it easy to lose.
• Resets at midnight: So, for those working a late-night/graveyard shift, that could be annoying.
• Battery: It is good that the Fitbit Zip battery is supposed to last for months, but it is also nice when all you have to do is plug something into a USB port to charge it.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31TYedOWPQL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

The Bottom Line

It is also worth noting that several users talked about dealing with customer service and the company in general. For the most part, everyone raved about the company and how it tried to work with you to make sure you were happy with the product.

One user even mentioned that she wrote the company when her [easyazon_link identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link] quit working. Even though the warranty had expired, they sent her a new one.

I’m all about getting things that do what I want. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link] will track your activity level and let you know how many calories you burned while you were wearing it—and not much else. But if that’s all you need, then no big deal, right?

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00BMFYB8Y” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31YvPtJtAqL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Option Two: Fitbit Charge HR 2

Fitbit Charge 2 provides standout features suitable for nurses with long and high-intensity shifts. It’s ‘Pure Pulse Heart Rate’ helps to monitor heart rate continuously and get a clear picture of your health. In addition, a personalized Cardio Fitness Score will help you have a better understanding of your fitness level.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/3173XFlQpjL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Customer Reviews

One website had 16,289 users leave reviews for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge HR 2[/easyazon_link]with an average rating of 4.2 stars (out of five).

At Walmart.com, 491 users left reviews for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge HR 2[/easyazon_link]with an average rating of 4.5 stars (out of five).

At the Dick’s Sporting Goods website, 297 users left reviews for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge HR 2[/easyazon_link] with an average rating of 4.3 stars (out of five).

Pros

• Continuous heart-rate reading: This aspect of the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge HR 2[/easyazon_link] can be especially nice if you are interested in seeing what your heart rate is in the moment (not after you stop and hit a button on your device.
• Long battery life: the battery in a [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge HR 2[/easyazon_link] can last up to five days. This can be especially nice if you end up working some long shifts for a few days and forget to charge it. Of course, the more you use it, the quicker the battery will deplete.
• Guided breathing feature: I have to admit that I needed to read up on this after seeing it was a feature for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge HR 2[/easyazon_link]. If you think about it, if your heart rate is going nuts, it can be nice to have something that can help you get it back under control.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31WWSx458NL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″] View on Amazon

Cons

• Synching with your phone: To use the GPS features on your [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge HR 2[/easyazon_link], you will have to sync it with your phone which could mean one pocket in your scrubs is going to be pretty weighed down.
• Phone-connected features for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge HR 2[/easyazon_link] are limited.
• Not water resistant: that just seems like a bad idea. Why would you not make something that is at least water-resistant? The Fitbit Charge HR 2 is advertised as “splash proof,” but many users cautioned against splashes from washing your hands. But many also said since they knew it wasn’t water-resistant, they’d push it up higher on their arm to avoid the water.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41fEFbolIoL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”387″]View on Amazon

The Bottom Line

I don’t understand why anyone would make a fitness-related electronic product that isn’t at least water-resistant. That part is kind of baffling. Then again, like many users mentioned in their reviews, you can remove it when you wash your hands. Otherwise, the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge HR 2[/easyazon_link] appears to be a very good – and popular – product among nurses.

Option Three: Fitbit Alta HR

Fitbit Alta HR is one the most complete Fitbit options; in addition to the essential features, it has some standout features that make it suitable for the busy nurses during those endless shifts. In my opinion, the main feature is the SmartTrack with Auto Exercise Recognition.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B06W58QKH6″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31OfR0M0NmL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Customer Reviews

At Walmart.com, 35 users left reviews for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B06W58QKH6″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Alta HR[/easyazon_link] with an average rating of 4.5 stars (out of five).

At the Dick’s Sporting Goods website, 44 users left a review for the Fitbit Alta HR with an average rating of 4.2 stars (out of five).

Another website saw 3,319 users leave a review for the Fitbit Alta HR. The average rating of 4.1 stars (out of five).

Pros

• Slim design: For some people, wearing devices that have large OLED screens on them is not an option. That is also not a problem with the [easyazon_link identifier=”B06W58QKH6″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Alta HR[/easyazon_link]. They probably hated those calculator watches that were popular in the 1980s as well.
• OLED Screen: for those who desire a slim, less noticeable device but still want to be able to glance down and see how you’re doing, the Fitbit Alta HR is perfect!
• Seven-day battery life: depending on use, of course.
• Customizable appearance: if you don’t like the monochromatic black, there are designer bands available for the Fitbit Alta HR that have a little more ‘personality.’

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B06W58QKH6″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41Qsry8R4AL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″] View on Amazon

Cons

• Not waterproof: The Fitbit Alta HR is resistant to water (advertised as “rain, sweat, and splash-proof”). But it is always nice when an electronic device can be waterproof.
• No GPS

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B06W58QKH6″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31txQUTautL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”333″]View on Amazon

The Bottom Line

Some Fitbits can feel like you are wearing a TV on your wrist. If you want to monitor your activity without the ‘TV,’ the [easyazon_link identifier=”B06W58QKH6″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Alta HR[/easyazon_link] is the way to go. You will not be disappointed with this purchase.

In fact the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge 2[/easyazon_link] emphasizes why it is so important to have the right equipment for the job. It won’t match the best fitness watch for tri-athletes or even give your children the best kids Fitbit; but, it does provide a fantastically easy way for older people to become more active; that’s why the Fitbit Flex 2 came in a very close 2^nd on the best fitness tracker for seniors.

Best Fitbit For Seniors: Fitbit Charge 2 – Best Value For Money

This is the upgraded version of the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge HR[/easyazon_link] and is a definite improvement. One of the best features that make it the best Fitbit for Seniors, is the larger display. It makes it much easier to see what you’re doing even when you’re on the move.

• Wrist-based heart tracker
• Call, text or see calendar 
• App Connectivity & Sync
• Weighs just 1.12 ounces

Advantages

• Screen Size

The latest version of the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge 2[/easyazon_link] has a monochrome OLED screen which is larger than the previous model. This makes it much easier to read but the thickness is just .51 inches. That makes it small enough to keep on all the time which drastically increases the chances of you wearing it when you need it.

• Multiple Tracking

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge 2[/easyazon_link] is a very capable device. It can track your steps, distance, calories burned, active minutes, and even how many stairs you’ve climbed.

You can opt to set your heart rate zones for fat burning, cardio, and peak rate. This will help to ensure you get the most out of every workout.

More impressive is the fact that it will recognize the difference between walking, running, lifting weights, or yoga. You really can see exactly what you’ve been doing all day.

• Good Range Of Features

If the ability to monitor different activities isn’t enough you’ll be pleased to note that the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge 2[/easyazon_link] will automatically track your sleep patterns and report for you. You can even set it to wake you up with a silent alarm.

Alongside this the Charge 2 allows you to track your food, log your workouts, and set goals; which you can watch yourself achieve.

• Ease of Use

The battery on this Fitbit is rechargeable. It should last 5 days on one charge which will help you to ensure that it is always ready when you need it.

The controls are generally self-explanatory and you don’t actually need to do anything to it for it to monitor your every move. The auto synch puts the data into your chosen app; allowing you to review and set new targets according to how you’re progressing.

It’s all effortless!

• Auto Sync

You can automatically sync with in excess of 200 apps on iOS, Windows, and Android; you’re certain to have the right software to hand to evaluate your progress and improve your fitness.

It can operate at altitudes up to 30,000 feet and in temperatures ranging from 14°F to 113°F.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41fEFbolIoL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”387″]

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Disadvantages

• Limit Phone Use

It is important to note that the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge 2[/easyazon_link] is designed for ease of use and fitness tracking. As such there are watches and trackers that will give you better connectivity to your phone. This will only allow you to see calls, messages, and get calendar alerts.

It may feel a little limited but for most seniors, this is more than they need.

• No GPS

Surprisingly the Charge 2 has yet to be given a GPS. This would be beneficial in providing accurate results as the terrain could also be monitored and mapped.

As a senior using it you may even find the GS useful to track your way back to where you started from.

• Straps Expensive To replace

It is possible to change the stylish straps on the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge 2.[/easyazon_link]This means you can customize it according to your mood or the venue you’re attending.

However, purchasing extra straps is on the expensive side; before you get carried away picking half a dozen you’ll need to consider how much they cost.

Fitbit Flex 2 – Easiest To Use

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/317TlajhHEL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]

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This is a sleeker design than the Charge 2 but doesn’t offer as wide a range of features. That’s not to say the Flex 2 isn’t a good fitness tracker by itself! This is the easiest to use best Fitbit for Seniors.

There are a number of great features:

• High Quality LED Screen
• Removable Tracker
• 50m Waterproof
• Auto Recognition of Workouts

Advantages

• Tracker Can Be Moved Between Units

The small unit inset into the watch band can actually be removed very easily. The theory behind this is that you’ll be able to take it out hidden in a bracelet or even your pocket. You can then continue to track your activity without others knowing.

• Auto Tracking

A [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Flex 2[/easyazon_link] is capable of knowing when you fall to sleep and monitoring your sleep cycle; ready to disclose to you in the morning.

But that’s not all! It will also automatically start monitoring as soon as you start walking or skipping down the road.

• Replaceable Bands

The main unit if the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Flex 2[/easyazon_link] is really easy to pop out. You can then slide it into a different band or almost anything else; giving others the effect that you’ve changed your watch again.

There are a huge number of colors and combinations on offer as well as those not made by Fitbit.

• Tracking abilities

If you’re looking to monitor your walking ability, distance traveled, calories burned and how long you’ve spent active then this is the fitness tracker for you.

You can choose between a small and a large band according to your wrist size.

• App Connectivity

Just like the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge 2[/easyazon_link] this [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Flex 2[/easyazon_link] can connect to in excess of 200 apps on Android, Windows and iOS systems. Once you’ve set the system up it will download the information effortlessly whenever you’re in range of your home network.

Disadvantages

• Call & Text Notifications Only

Just like the Charge 2 the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KH2PV4U” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Flex 2[/easyazon_link] doesn’t offer much in the way of connectivity with your social life. You can monitor phone calls and text messages but very little else.

In many ways this is a good thing for seniors that don’t want the confusing extras; simply a fitness watch that does what it’s supposed to.

• No GPS

Disappointingly a GPS unit is not included. While not essential it would make the watch more useable and may help seniors to find their way home!

• Lack of Clock

There is nothing on this display to tell you the time or other useful information. That means you either need to rely on your cell phone or wear a watch alongside your fitness tracker; not an option that appeals to everyone.

• Colored Lights Only

This watch actually just consists of colored lights that tell you how close you are to reaching your daily goal.

There is no other information accessible on the watch although all the stats are transferred to the computer

Fitbit Zip – Best For Those On A Budget

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B0095PZHZE” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31TYedOWPQL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]

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This is definitely the most affordable option on the list but still has a good number of features to offer. It’s great if you have a limited budget or are looking to use a fitness tracker without using a wrist band. The Zip is the most budget-friendly best Fitbit for Seniors.

• Clips On
• Stylish design in multiple colors
• Tap the display to see stats
• Battery lasts 6 months

Advantages

• Basic Features For Fitness

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B0095PZHZE” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Zip[/easyazon_link] does not offer a huge range of features. It will track your steps, distance traveled, active minutes, and calories burned.

This is enough to start your basic fitness program and improve your overall health. In fact, it is a great way for seniors to start moving again!

• Cost

This is not just one of the cheapest Fitbit’s on the market it is also one of the cheapest fitness trackers.

Considering you’re purchasing a quality product from one of the top fitness tracker providers this is a great investment!

• Share & Compete

Even when you’re out and about it is possible to share your results with your friends and compete against them.

This is a simple feature but a great way of getting people to push themselves harder. A little competition is a good thing!

• Auto Sync

Just like the other Fitbits on this list [easyazon_link identifier=”B0095PZHZE” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]the Zip[/easyazon_link] will automatically connect to your iOS, Android or Windows app and download the info it has collected.

This gives you the convenience of being able to look at all your activity in an easy to read format on the computer.

Disadvantages

• Doesn’t track stairs

[easyazon_link identifier=”B0095PZHZE” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]The Zip[/easyazon_link] is unable to distinguish between stairs and walking. It simply can’t tell you how many stairs you traveled up each day.

This is a shame as stairs can make a big difference to the total exercise you’ve performed.

• No Heart Rate Monitor

In order to get the most out of any exercise, you need to be able to tell whether you’re in the fat-burning range, cardio, or at your peak. Without a heart rate monitor, this is not possible leaving you guessing regarding how much harder you can push during the day.

• Limited Impact On Healthy Habits

Because there are no healthy tips available with this Fitbit you won’t be able to use it to improve your exercising or even eating habits. Other Fitbits do offer tips; helping you to know your progress and reset your goals.

Summing Up The Best Fitbit For Seniors

If you’re new to exercise then the [easyazon_link identifier=”B0095PZHZE” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Zip[/easyazon_link] is the best Fitbit for seniors. But, if you want to get a good level of information and encouragement to keep going you won’t do better than the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge 2.[/easyazon_link] I know my parents both love it!

I recommend the [easyazon_link identifier=”B0711LK9V4″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Withings Go[/easyazon_link]; it’s incredibly easy to use, reliable and tells you everything you need to know at a glance.

I know it works; I bought one for my dad and not only did he manage to set it up by himself (and he’s not technically minded); but he also hasn’t stopped raving about it since!

Withings Go – The Winner

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”497″ identifier=”B01BP58LOA” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31mnfuMjTsL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]

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• Standard Watch Size
• Supports iOS & Android
• Monitors running, walking, swimming & sleep
• Automatic Exercise Tracker

Advantages

• Very Simple To Use

One of the greatest things about the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01BP58LOA” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Withings Go[/easyazon_link] is that it’s not trying to offer you a world of technology. It tracks your fitness without any fuss and it does it well.

The screen simply shows your exercise and some bars. All you need to do to get it working is to download the Withings health app via Android or iOS. You’ll then be given a set of commands allowing you to pair the fitness tracker with your phone.

It will then detect when you are exercising and start tracking it for you. It is worth noting that the range of exercises it tracks is limited.

But for senior people looking to do a little exercise its perfect; you don’t need to remember to turn it on or off; it just works.

• Waterproof

This is a budget fitness tracker and yet it is waterproof to 50m; that’s better than most of its competitors!

Even if you’re not a fan of swimming you’ll appreciate the ability of this watch to work in all weathers.

• Long Battery Life

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B01BP58LOA” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Withing Go[/easyazon_link] has been equipped with a built-in button cell battery. This will give you 8 months of use without ever having to charge the battery. That’s fantastic!

After all, who needs something else to remember every evening? Having to charge a fitness tracker can often mean it’s not ready when you are.

• Easy To Read Display

The display may be simple and unashamedly fitness based but it is very easy to read; regardless of whether you are in bright sunshine or not. This is due to the fact that it has an E ink display and not a standard watch face.

It should be noted that the display will allow you to see your daily step count and your time but for most data, you’ll need to connect to your app on your cell phone.

This may seem like an inconvenience but for many seniors it’s perfect; you can take your time to understand and compare your results.

Disadvantages

• Can Underestimate Step Count

The Withings Go does not have GPS capability which isn‘t really an issue. But, this does mean that its distance or step counter is not as accurate as it could be.

On the plus side, it is better to underestimate your steps rather than overestimate them!

• Sleep Tracker Not Accurate

The sleep tracker shows when you’re awake, in light sleep and in deep sleep. Unfortunately, many people have reported that the figures it produces are not accurate.

I’ve yet to double-check this fact but it is certainly something to be aware of.

• No Heart Rate Monitor

Considering the price of this fitness tracker it is not surprising that there is no heart rate monitor; although still a little disappointing.

It makes it a great fitness tracker for seniors but not much use if you are really serious about fitness.

Fitbit Charge 2 – Runner Up

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41fEFbolIoL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”387″]

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• Records Steps, calories, distance, Heart And Sleep
• Can Also Record Workouts
• Links To iOS, Android With Free Access To Fitbit App
• Automatic Exercise Tracker

Advantages

• Large Display Screen

It’s great to see a large and easy to read display screen. In fact this screen is 4 times larger than the original [easyazon_link identifier=”B00N2BW2PK” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitbit Charge[/easyazon_link].

You can adjust the brightness to suit your needs and retain excellent visibility even in bright sunshine. This is partly due to the fact that it is all in black and white.

For those with a diminished sight, you’ll still be able to see the information you need. For others, it means there is more information displayed to help you understand your progress.

• Accurate

When tested against other fitness trackers the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge 2[/easyazon_link] seems to be extremely accurate; despite not having GPS included.

The fact that it has automatic exercise detection means that it will start and stop as you do; helping you to get an accurate picture of what you’ve been doing without needing to remember to turn it on and off.

• Subtle Motivator

There is an array of notifications you get through the day and the week as you reach the targets you’ve set. This is a great way to motivate you to do one ore workout.

It may not be a physical reward but that 5-day star still makes you feel pretty good!

• Comfortable

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge 2[/easyazon_link] is exceptionally comfortable to wear. In fact, you’ll quickly forget it’s there. Combine this with the fact it is water-resistant and you’ll rarely need to take it off.

This is good news as every time you take it off you may be tempted not to put it back on, or you may simply forget.  If you’re not wearing it then you won’t be reminded to work out!

Disadvantages

• 5 Day Battery Life

5-day battery life may seem pretty impressive but that means you need to take it off and remember to charge it regularly.

When you compare this to the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01BP58LOA” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Withings Go[/easyazon_link] you can see how much better it is to be able to just leave the fitness tracker on; especially if you’re likely to forget to put it back on.

• No GPS

You can access GPS through the app connecting your fitness tracker and your cell phone. Unfortunately, this ruins the simplicity of using the Fitbit Charge 2 and means that you need to carry your phone with you as well.

This is a shame in what is otherwise a very promising fitness tracker.

• Gesture Recognition Not Very Accurate

Part of the point of automatically recognizing that you are exercising is that you don’t need to do anything to record your movements.

Unfortunately, the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9S260E” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Charge 2[/easyazon_link] is not brilliant at recognizing these movements; which could result in your exercising and it not being recorded.

This will be extremely frustrating!

• Limited Notifications

If you’re interested in syncing your fitness tracker to your phone then this is not the one for you. It can connect and give you caller ID, messages, and calendar reminders; but that’s it.

Garmin Vivofit –  A Great Alternative

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00HFPOXM4″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41QFgHaxJWL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]

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• Always On Display
• AMOED Touch Screen
• Connects To Heart Rate Monitor
• Tracks Wide Range of Movements

Advantages

• Water-Resistant

The Vivofit is waterproof to 50m; that’s the same as the Withings Go and enough to ensure you don’t need to take it off; even if you’re swimming for exercise.

This makes it exceptionally practical and more likely to be with you when you need it.

• Personalized Goals

You can create your own goals on the connected Garmin app and then see them on your fitness tracker. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00HFPOXM4″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Vivofit[/easyazon_link] should handle your data for a month but you can also send this to your phone or tablet via the Garmin app.

This allows you to track your progress and build new plans to improve your fitness levels. The Vivofit will also increase your daily step count every time you hit your target.

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00HFPOXM4″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Vivofit[/easyazon_link] also features a red line that appears once you have been inactive for an hour; motivating you to move again.

• Long Battery Life

The battery lasts for a whole year; that’s impressive by any standards. You won’t need to remember to charge it or do anything. Just like the Withings Go it can be put on and left on to do its thing.

Disadvantages

• Difficult to Read

The large LED screen is actually really easy to read; unless you want to see it as the light starts to drop. Gamin has not fitted this fitness tracker with a backlight. You will not be able to see the time or how you are progressing in low light.

That’s disappointing for such a quality product.

• Syncing Issues

There have been several reports suggesting the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00HFPOXM4″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Vivofit[/easyazon_link] struggles to connect to your app. As this is where you can personalize your tracker and set up new plans it’s quite important it work properly!

• Lack Of Notifications

You are probably used to devices buzzing when they have something to tell you. It may be to remind you to move or to take your medicine or even that important call.

Unfortunately, the Vivofit is lacking in this area. It has no vibrations to alert you to what it is trying to tell you!

The Best Fitness Tracker For Seniors Summed Up

There is no doubt that the [easyazon_link identifier=”B0711LK9V4″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Withings Go[/easyazon_link] is the best fitness tracker for seniors. It offers all the basic functionality you could need on a day to day basis and needs no interaction from you.

This makes it perfect for many younger people as well as seniors; it offers convenience and usability without any hassles. That’s important in the hectic modern world.

In addition, the menus and functions are easy to access and the information is clearly displayed. You will find it beneficial; I know my dad has!