Health Wearables & the Internet of Things (IoT)

In today’s world, technology is constantly evolving and revolutionizing how we live. One of the most significant technological advancements of recent times is the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT refers to the interconnected network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances, and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and network connectivity that enables these objects to collect and exchange data.

A very basic example of IoT that most of us are familiar with is smart home technology. If you have a smart thermostat that is connected to a home hub, such as Alexa, Google Home, or Apple Home, then you’re already using IoT!

IoT is drastically shaping the future of many industries, and the health and fitness sector is no exception. In this blog post, we will explore how IoT is transforming the health and fitness industry and the ways it is helping people lead healthier and more active lifestyles.

What is IoT?

To cover our bases, let’s first lay out what IoT is. The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the growing network of connected devices that are embedded with sensors and software. These devices can collect and exchange data over the internet, enabling them to perform a wide range of tasks without human intervention. IoT devices range from wearable fitness devices to smart home appliances, and everything in between.

a smart refrigerator shows the contents inside on an outer screen

IoT and the Health and Fitness Industry

The health and fitness industry has embraced IoT technology in a big way, leading to the creation of a range of innovative products and services. From wearable fitness devices to smart gym equipment, IoT has made it easier than ever before to track and monitor fitness progress and make healthy lifestyle choices.

Wearable Fitness Devices

One of the most significant impacts of IoT on the health and fitness industry has been the rise of wearable fitness devices. These devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, are designed to monitor various aspects of physical activity and health, including heart rate, steps taken, calories burned, and sleep patterns.

Wearable fitness devices make it easy to track progress and set goals, and they provide instant feedback on how well we are doing. This feedback can be incredibly motivating and can help us stay on track with our fitness and health goals. Some examples of IoT-enabled devices we use at Stark are the Withings Scale and the Oura Ring.

A man out of focus holds up his Oura Ring

Connected Healthcare

IoT is also having a profound impact on healthcare, enabling patients to monitor their health and receive treatment in new and innovative ways. Wearable medical devices, such as continuous glucose monitors, can help people with chronic conditions manage their health and receive timely treatment when needed. At Stark, we have employed the use of the Nutrisense continuous glucose monitor to help improve blood sugar regulation, as well as better understand how the body responds to certain foods.

IoT has also made telemedicine a reality, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely. This has made healthcare more accessible and convenient, especially for people in remote or underserved areas.

The Internet of Things (IoT) has already made big waves in the health and fitness industry, and this is just the beginning! By providing people with the ability to track progress, set goals, and receive feedback on our performance, IoT has shifted the rate and the way in which we approach improvements in fitness and overall wellness.

In the future, we can expect to see even more exciting developments, as IoT technology continues to advance and become even more integrated into our daily lives. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking to lead a healthier lifestyle, a more connected lifestyle is going to be a part of the future.