Introduction: Apps vs. Wearables
So you are new to FitRankings and perhaps new to using health apps and wearables. No need to panic, FitRankings has you covered :)
Everyday there are new apps and wearables coming out. We've chosen the apps and wearables that are the most reliable and user friendly (occasionally we add new offerings). Below you will find a brief overview of how to get started.
Don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions (support@fitrankings.com)
The difference between wearables + apps
Wearables are worn on the body during activity. They can track activity without the user needing to manually input information. They generally cost $40-$200. (Examples: Garmin Forerunner, Fitbit Flex, Apple Watch).
Apps generally exist on a smartphone (or smartwatch). They generally do not cost money to download. They can be very accurate, but it might not be convenient for the individual to carry the smartphone during activity. Apps also allow manual entry of activity, which helps with activities that are difficult for wearables to track (yoga, weightlifting, treadmill).
Don't be Scared!
Don't be afraid to try new apps or wearables, and connecting them to FitRankings. You can always delete extraneous the activity on FitRankings or on the app after it is entered. You can always reach out to us by clicking the three bars in the upper left corner, then clicking "support" at the bottom.
What activity are you trying to track?
This is the first question you need to ask yourself. Just about everyone walks, so this is the easiest activity to track. We also have created some quick recommendations based on the wearables we have a direct connection with for other common exercises.
Walking
Smartphone: Fitbit (recommended), Jawbone, Moves.
Wearables: Fitbit, Jawbone.
Manual Input: Fitbit, Jawbone, Runkeeper, MapmyFitness.
Apple Watch: Jawbone App.
Running
Smartphone: Runkeeper (recommended) or MapMyFitness.
Wearables: Garmin or Fitbit.
Manual Input: Runkeeper or MapMyFitness.
Apple Watch: Runkeeper or MapMyFitness apps.
Other Activities (Yoga/Weightlifting/Lawn Work/etc.)
Manual Input: Runkeeper or MapMyFitness.
Cycling
Smartphone: Runkeeper or MapMyFitness.
Wearables: Garmin.
Manual Input: Runkeeper or MapMyFitness.
Apple Watch: Runkeeper or MapMyFitness apps.
Don't see your app or wearable that you typically track your activities with?
Not a problem! Learn how to connect a device that we do not provide a direct connection with through the following article:
Connecting a Device That Does Not Have a Direct Connection to FitRankings