Forget the humble stopwatch. Smart tech devices, like fitness trackers, GPS watches and heart rate monitors have come a long way. They’re great for motivation, tracking your performance and telling you how your fitness is progressing. Check out our top smart tech choices for sportspeople.
Fitbit Versa 2 with Amazon Alexa – Currys PC World (£199)
Some smartwatches are super-smart on the inside, but a bit clunky on the outside. Not the Fitbit Versa 2. With its tapered chassis and ‘squircle’ display, it’s up there with the best on the looks front. And with heart rate monitor, activity and sleep tracking, it ticks all the tech boxes as a health & fitness tracker. But the really smart thing? It’s got to be the Alexa voice control– just say the word to load a new music playlist, check the weather or whatever – without stopping or slowing down.
Our verdict: easy-to-use, great looking fitness tracker
Apple Watch Nike Series 5 – Apple Store (£399)
The perfect running partner. The latest Apple Watch Nike features a world of workouts, coaching and motivation to take your fitness to the next level – whether you’re a couch to 5k-er or a sub-3 marathon runner. With its built-in Nike Run Club app, you get an audio-guided run every week and a curated soundtrack to keep you motivated. The Watch offers a choice of stunning Nike watch faces, an always-on retina display and an (optional) reflective Nike Sport Loop strap.
Our verdict: great Apple looks and functionality, ideal for runners
Jaxjox KettlebellConnect – Argos (£299)
A smart dumbbell? Not quite. This one’s actually a kettlebell with built-in smart technology. Syncing with the Jaxjox app, you can track your workouts rep-by-rep and focus on smashing your fitness goals. It features six weights, ranging from 12 to 42 pounds. But here’s the really smart bit: the KettlebellConnect features a rotating weight-selection core. At the push of a button, you can add or drop weights in a matter of seconds. A nice touch for great home workouts.
Our verdict: cardio workouts have never been more convenient
Garmin vivoactive 3 Music – Currys PC World (£249)
If you love working out to music, this could be the device for you. With enough room for 500 songs, just sync the vivoactve 3 with your Bluetooth headphones and leave your phone at home. With GPS mode, 15 pre-loaded sports apps, heart rate and sleep monitoring, it’s also great for tracking your activity and wellbeing. As an extra bonus, this is the first Garmin to feature Garmin pay – so you can easily grab a well-earned takeaway coffee or juice when you’re done.
Our verdict: feature-packed, well-connected device for sports and music fans
GoPro Hero 7 Black Action Camera – Jessops (£319)
Whether you’re trail running in the back of beyond, cycling in the Dales or just skating your local bowl, why not capture the action with a GoPro camera? Tiny but tough, the GoPro Hero 7 Black lets you bag super-smooth high-quality action footage as well as high resolution stills. With the GoPro app, you can even stream your live footage to Facebook Live. Choose from a range of mounts and accessories to suit your sport or activity and…go for it!
Our verdict: shareable action video shooting made simple
ProForm Pro 1000 Folding Treadmill – Argos (£999)
It’s tipping down outside. And the wind’s howling. Who fancies going for a run? Or you could unfold your ProForm Pro 1000 treadmill and pound out a few miles in the comfort (and shelter) of your own home. With built-in speakers, Bluetooth and a tablet holder, it’s perfect for clocking up some distance while watching your favourite Netflix blockbuster or listening to music. With 32 user programmes, heart rate monitor and autostop safety system, it’s got everything you need to keep on running – whatever the weather.
Our verdict: top-quality treadmill with bells and whistles
Prices may be subject to change.
