There are so many options available if you are in the market for a fitness tracker. Trackers have improved from just tracking sleep and steps, to being waterproof, sweat proof, including heart rate monitors and smartphone notifications.  They can be worn on the wrist as a bracelet or watch, on fingers as rings, in pockets, around the neck as a pendant or on clothing as a clip.  They are rugged or fashionable - the options are ever growing!

Trackers do not necessarily automatically lead to increased physical activity - but they are a popular way to track progress.  If your goal for the new year is to increase your level of physical activity and exercise a fitness tracker may be just what you need to help you meet this goal.

Using a fitness tracker and the corresponding app will allow you to view and analyze your progress.  You will be able to challenge yourself to take more steps, to walk or run farther or faster, to reach milestones, or to train for an event like a 5K or 10K. 

The financial motivation can also be helpful - you will most likely shell out around $100 to purchase one.  This alone can motivate you to use it to make the investment worth it.

If you need some outside motivation and accountability, many fitness trackers also allow you to post on social media and to link up with others to share your success and for friendly competition.

Your employer may also utilize trackers with your wellness program to incentivize your activity and efforts to be healthy. If they don't, you may want to suggest it!

Fitness trackers are not magic and will not do the work for you - but they can be motivating and fun.  They are definitly worth looking into!