TECH TRENDS: Best Buy Promotes a Healthier Lifestyle

After years of big box retailers selling sedentary fun like video games and movies they are changing their tune and possibly their target audience.

While the display at our Fayetteville Best Buy store might seem like a new trend, Best Buy actually launched their fitness solutions in the fall of 2009 and even sold traditional gym equipment online and at select stores in Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Texas. 

“We’re constantly looking for the most innovative solutions to address our customer’s lifestyle needs,” said Steve Trier, director for new categories at Best Buy. "There's been a lot of change in that industry and what these products can do for our customers and their lives."

"Customers expect quality, selection and service from Best Buy, and with health and fitness, we're matching the right combination of gear with experienced BlueShirts and Geek Squad to help them manage and stay motivated by their fitness routines."

One item of interest that caught my eye and could be of use for all, no matter what your fitness level is the Fitbit. It is a personal trainer that collects data about your daily activities, such as exercise intensity levels, calories burned, sleep quality, steps and distance. The collected data is automatically uploads to your personal Fitbit website where you can track your progress towards personal goals.

Some things that appealing about the Fitbit: it's size and battery life. It can last more than 10 days on a single charge. Plus, it's ultra compact, wireless and can be clipped on the inside of a sports bra or pocket to be worn around discreetly throughout the day for the novice exerciser. Not as overt as the oversized GPS wrist-like watch devices worn by triathletes and extreme running enthusiasts who like everyone to know that they are a serious athlete to be reckoned with. 

How many calories did you burn today playing Call of Duty with your kids?