There are many tech accessories that help monitor sports activities and make workouts more exciting. Here are our suggestions.
Technology now accompanies many of our activities, which undoubtedly includes sport. Smartwatches, true wireless earphones and fitness bands are just some of the gadgets that are usually used during workouts to monitor progress and get the right charge.
But what are the essential devices for sports? Certainly, to answer this question, it is necessary to make a series of considerations also based on the type of discipline you intend to practice.
In this in-depth study we will understand how to orientate yourself within the wide range of devices on the market, identifying the functions that are really useful during physical exercise.
Smartband, a real wrist trainer
By attaching a smartband to your wrist, you can always carry with you a series of useful tools to monitor sports activities. Clock, timer, pedometer, heart rate monitor, calculation of the distance traveled, are just some of the features available.
Xiaomi Smart Band 7
If you are looking for a device that is simple to use and reliable, for hours of non-stop training, our choice falls on the Xiaomi Smart Band 7 . Last born in the Xiaomi house, Smart Band 7 inherits the experience accumulated with previous generations, proving perfectly in line with the needs of users.
Over 110 sports modes are supported , including running, biking, tennis, baseball and dance. The information can be read on the large 1.62-inch AMOLED display and consulted through the dedicated app, where you can view your daily progress and calories burned.
Thanks to the waterproofness up to 5 ATM it is also possible to use it with water sports, while the battery has a duration of 14 days. Health is monitored by measuring heart rate, blood oxygen (SpO2) and sleep quality.
The list price is € 59.99, but thanks to online promotions it is available for around € 50 .
If you are looking for a less expensive alternative, our advice is to orient yourself on OPPO Band . The functions are identical, even if it has a smaller display, and it has an autonomy of 12 days. Thanks to ongoing promotions, the price is currently set at around 30 euros .
Smartwatch, for those who make sport their vocation
Those who want a more advanced device than a smartband, which allows you to leave the phone at home while doing sports, must turn to a smartwatch. In addition to incorporating the same features present in a band, these devices allow you to listen to music, manage messages and calls, consult maps and much more.
Apple Watch 7
Apple Watch 7 is undoubtedly among the most successful models and is indicated if you are using an iPhone. The smartwatch allows you to carry out an ECG simply by holding it on the wrist , to monitor the oxygen in the blood even at night and to carry out an analysis of the phases of sleep.
In addition, there are many functions dedicated to fitness that connect to the Apple Fitness + platform with which to follow the advice of a real coach.
For Android users, a good alternative is Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 5 . Circular design and colorful silicone strap make it perfect for any occasion, including sports.
The device supports over 90 exercises, is waterproof and monitors health parameters such as SpO2 and heart rate. The price is currently around 230 euros, taking advantage of online promotions.
True wireless earphones, to always have the right charge
Running, yoga or gym training, each activity requires a specific soundtrack. Wireless (or true wireless) earphones are the right solution for listening to your favorite playlist while doing sports .
There are so many models on the market and for all budgets, as we explained in our previous in-depth analysis . What you need to pay attention to, however, is the degree of waterproofing, which is essential for use during training.
Oppo Enco W12
Among the models with the best quality / price ratio we point out the OPPO Enco W12 , available online for about 25 euros. The in-ear design helps keep the earbuds securely in your ears even while exercising .
The autonomy is 6 hours with a single charge , which become 24 thanks to the supplied case, ideal for long training sessions. The touch controls allow you to manage music and any calls comfortably, without having to take your smartphone out of your pocket.
Finally, the IP54 certification certifies its resistance to dust and water, so do not worry if you use them on a rainy day or if you sweat while exercising.
Action cam, dedicated to adventure
Surfing, street skateboarding, skydiving and parkour are extreme sports that we often admire on YouTube or in videos posted on social media. The best way to shoot close-up or first-person shots while doing these kinds of activities is to use an action camera.
These are devices designed to withstand drops, water and dust , simple to use and capable of making quality movies while on the move. It is clear that they can also be used for other types of sports, such as hiking, diving or a simple bike ride.
GoPro Hero8 Black
Our choice in this particular sector of tech gadgets can only be directed to the GoPro Hero8 Black Edition , the flagship model of the historic brand specialized in action cameras. The device records video in 4K, is waterproof up to 10 meters deep and can take 12MP shots during the action .
HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization eliminates vibrations for always fluid shooting, with TimeWarp 2.0 it is possible to obtain timed videos ready to be shared on social networks. Three microphones on board, with a filter that reduces wind noise and makes shooting even more immersive.
The practical touch-screen allows you to manage all settings but you can also start recording via smartphone app. GoPro Hero8 Black Edition has a list price of 379.98 euros, but thanks to online promotions it is possible to take it home for around 300 euros .
