5MinuteConsult Journal Club

Wearables WORK for Weight Loss and Fitness

Reference

International Journal of Nursing Studies 127 (2022) 104163

Study Summary and Outcomes

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 30 trials on wearable fitness trackers found significant reductions in weight ( −1.08 kg, 95% CI: −1.88, −0.28), BMI ( −0.36 kg/m 2 , 95% CI: −0.62, −0.09), waist circumference ( −1.12 cm, 95% CI: −2.08, −0.16), steps per day (1,243.51 steps, 95% CI: 111.51, 2375.51), systolic blood pressure ( −2.57 mmHg, 95% CI: −4.57, −0.56) and diastolic pressure ( −2.10 mmHg, 95% CI: −3.43, −0.77) with their regular use over at least 3 months of implementation. The quality of the evidence was considered moderate to high.

Conclusions

Use of wearable technology for 3 or more months can improve weight loss and aerobic activity.

Discussion

I would assume if you volunteered to be enrolled in one of these studies, you were likely motivated by weight loss. It is great to see that there was a significant outcome, even if it was only, on average, 1 kg (~2.5 lbs). But that is far better than a similar weight gain over 3 months, which is not uncommon. The additional benefit of increased steps, and lower blood pressure implies improved cardiovascular fitness. Win-win.

When helping patients to live a better lifestyle, this study supports a wearable fitness tracker. Ideally one that reminds you if you have been sitting too long. The high-level data on its use for improving sleep is pending, but some data show they may be of value as well. Quality Fitness Trackers can be obtained for as little as $50 and should be considered for those interested in living better.

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Contributed by Frank J. Domino, March 23, 2022