The 5 Most Futuristic Fitness Trackers

Begin your transition from mere man to superfit machine with these high-tech wearable fitness bands.

If you're anything like us, you love data. You love tech. You love delegating responsibilities. You love looking and feeling your best. Is it any wonder, then, that we're in love with gadgets that can monitor an ever-widening array of metrics on how we treat our bodies and, in so doing, improve our behavior?

Wearable devices are having a profound effect on health and well-being, and as they improve, their impact will be even greater in the years to come. So get up to speed with some of the best out there right now. Then check out the report that's changed thousands of lives: 100 Ways to Live to 100!

1
Garmin Forerunner 230

Garmin Forerunner 230

If you're a serious workout warrior, look no further than the Forerunner 230. From its techy look to its functionality, everything about it says that its wearer is serious about getting in shape and doesn't care who knows it. Imagine you're competing in an Iron Man. During your run, the large, easy-to-read color screen makes tracking your pace a snap. If you get separated from other cyclists during the biking portion, a built-in GPS will enable you to see detailed mapping of the route, then deliver smartphone notifications if the people cheering you on are wondering where the hell you are. And the 50-meter water resistance means that it's as functional in the water as you are. $180 at amazon.com

2
The Polar V800

The Polar V800

There's something retro-futuristic about the way the Polar V800 looks, but the price tag — nearly 500 smackers — is more future-future. As in, "in the future, when I decide it's a good idea to train like I'm trying to snag a spot on the International Space Station, I will purchase one of these Battlestar Galactica-looking bangles." That's not to say the V800 isn't jam-packed with cool features such as customizable profiles for various sports, a chest heart-rate monitor with Bluetooth connectivity, built-in GPS and a waterproof body. $500 at polar.com. Wear it while you're living life to the absolute fullest — start checking off these 40 Things You Must Do in Your 40s!

3
Samsung Gear Fit2

Samsung Gear Fit2

This fitness band sure is purdy. It features a curved Super AMOLED touchscreen, which makes it not only sexy but incredibly user-friendly. The Gear Fit2 has a wide range of tracking sensors to closely monitor activity levels, including steps taken, calories burned, heart rate and sleep quality. And get this: It can even automatically identify different types of physical activities such as running, cycling, working out on the elliptical, and more. Oh, and if you want to leave your smartphone at home, you can: Built-in Spotify allows wearers to upload their favorite tunes directly to the band. $149 at amazon.com

4
Fitbit Charge 2

Fitbit Charge 2

The new FitBit Charge 2 replaces replaces the Charge and Charge HR in one stylish swoop. Continuous heart-rate monitoring makes it easy to maximize your workouts by tracking calorie burn and getting a snapshot of your cardio fitness level, while all-day activity and auto sleep tracking shows how your whole routine adds up. In addition to compiling health data and delivering smartphone notifications, the Charge 2 can also help users unwind via personalized breathing exercises. $110 at amazon.com. While you're at it, try these 10 Ways to Beat Stress in 10 Minutes or Less!

5
Under Armour UA Band

Under Armour UA Band

The UA Band features a seamless, universal fit, waterproof build and sleek design, allowing users to wear it nearly all the time (showering is fine, but don't submerge the bugger!). What really sets this apart is the band: Created in partnership with HTC, it's part of a new UA HealthBox platform which includes a heart-rate-monitor chest strap and a smart scale. The products all confer with each other, aiming to make you better at being you. $220 at underarmour.com. On that note, make sure you're mastering these 30 Life Skills Every Man Should Know!

 

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