Buying a fitness tracker? Tips to pick the right one
Culture
Counting steps can be one of the first steps to getting into shape.
The latest fitness trackers go beyond pedometers that sync with your smart phone.
If you're interested in heart rate or some of the new smart notification features, it might be worth your while.
The new $130 Fitbit Charge replaces the discontinued Fitbit force but with one major upgrade.
Caller ID.
It's got basic sleep and step tracking.
Has a clock readout, and will also get call notifications.
This does not have heart rate tracking.
If there's one world to describe the $200 Basis Peak from Intel, it's automatic.
It lasts about a week, you can wear it in the shower, and it immediately starts analyzing your heart rate and your sleep data to give you feedback and help you set healthy goals.
The $200 Microsoft band is a combination fitness band and smart watch that works with window phones iPhone and iOS.
It has a variety of smart notifications.
Can show you the weather.
You can pay for drink at Starbucks with a QR code.
And it with also download and play workouts.
And has heart rate measurements, sleep tracking.
The ability to sense UV's.
Even kids can get in on the action.
The 40 dollar water resistant Leap Frog Leap Band, inspires kids to get moving with virtual pets.
Kids take care of their pets by being active, and playing games.
Wiggles like a caterpillar.
Parents can set limits on how long their children can play.
And let's not forget the other member of the family.
THe 99 dollar whistle activity monitor attaches to your dog's collar and tracks how much your dog walks, plays, and rests.
It sends updates to your smartphone so you can keep tabs on your pup even when you're apart.
For more tech gift ideas visit Cnet.com and click on the holiday gift guide.
In San Francisco, I'm Sumi Das.
Cnet.com for CBS News.
