The verdict on smart phone fitness apps
In today’s technologically advanced world, there are many avenues that may help improve health. The internet and smart phone applications (apps) are just two of the ways that technology has improved our access to health related information. When using the internet there are numerous websites available for anyone in the public to find information on a vast variety of health topics. One website in particular that tends to do a stellar job explaining sometimes complex health issues in an easy-to-read and understandable way is www.kidshealth.org. On this website children, teenagers, and parents will find hundreds of health related articles all reviewed regularly by doctors from around the world for accuracy of content.
On smart phones there are an abundant number of apps that either provide health information from established public health organizations or help track health behaviors. A simple search on any smart device yields hundreds of results for both free and paid apps. While it can be overwhelming, it might be a good idea to start with the free apps or at least try the free version of an app you’re interested in paying for so that you can test it out before purchasing. You can usually find a description of apps as well as see how others have rated it before deciding to buy.
When looking through health related apps the best thing to keep in mind is to do what is right for you and your family. No matter what you’re looking for, there is usually an app to help. There are apps to track food intake, track physical activity, count calories, map out and track running or walking, create healthy meal ideas, etc. However, as with every health related behavior (including the decision to start using a health related app) it is important to set smart goals that are achievable for you and your family.
One of the greatest things about the technologically advanced world we live in is that all the information we need (via the internet) and all the tools we need to apply that information (via apps) is right there at our fingertips. Nonetheless, the decision to make healthy choices will always lie within each and every one of us. Thus, it remains vitally important that we promote healthy habits and encourage appropriate content, conduct, and contact when doing so with technology. Digital citizenship is the appropriate and effective use of technology in order to engage in society. We are fortunate to have the technology, and we have to learn and remember to use it properly.
Lastly, remember that the phone and computer screen aren’t what make a person healthy; it is stepping away from those devices putting the information and tools to use.
Nikole E. Tome, MPH, CHES is an assistant director/program evaluation at the Byrnes Health Education Center. She graduated in 2013 from West Chester University with a Master’s Degree in Public Health. She has also obtained her Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credentials from the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing.
