Introduction
In this episode we'll explore fitness trackers and the fitness goal of 10,000 steps a day. Why that number? What happens if you don't hit it? And what else needs to be considered with fitness trackers when it comes to a healthy relationship with your body. Especially if you're recovering from chronic dieting and disordered eating.
This episode explores:
- The origins and research behind the 10,000 steps/day concept
- How and why this has become so synonymous with health and fitness
- What the research says about physical benefits from varying step amounts
- Accuracy considerations
- Long term expectations from using fitness trackers
- The concern in usage especially for those recovering from diet culture and disordered eating
Resources mentioned:
- 2017 study looking at the motivational aspect of using a FitBit
- This 2016 study exploring decreased exercise enjoyment from using fitness trackers
- 2020 study looking at exercise dependance and compensatory behaviours from wearables use
- Seeking professional support
- Food and Body Freedom Facebook community
- Emma Green @emmafitnessphd
