Recently there have been a few people poo-pooing on the Pokemon Go app, but I think that anything that gets people outside and moving is a great idea. Since downloading Pokemon Go, we have never been more active. Suddenly it seems easy to the find time for a morning walk around the neighborhood – and I’m not the only one. Our local beaches have always been popular but now there is a whole new crowd there morning, noon and night capturing various water Pokemon. Since we’re already being active, why not take it up a notch? Double up on these health apps while playing Pokemon Go and keep track of your miles walked, time spent and steps counted!
These apps are all available on iOS and Android, and don’t require any additional gear except for your cellphone and a trusty service provider like Verizon.
Runtastic
Runtastic is one of my favorite apps for a few reasons but first and foremost, I love it because it’s so simple to use. Don’t want to fuss around? Just open the app and it takes you directly to the “start” screen. With a swipe of your finger, you’re on your way with the app doing all of the legwork, so to speak, tracking your calories, distance, average pace, duration and even your route!
Speaking of routes, the app is a great way to track which routes you have taken around the neighborhood to help you canvas every inch. It even suggests new routes for you to take. If you decide to amp up your Pokemon Go excursion into an intense workout, the app also features Training Plans, Interval Training, an in-depth history and statistics, story running and more.
Available one iTunes and Google Play
MyFitnessPal
MyFitnessPal is like a digital health diary. It keeps track of calories consumed and calories burned through your workouts. You can enter the information manually OR pair it with any of the 30 compatible apps like Runtastic, Fitbit, Apple Healthkit and more to automatically share information between apps. This is the best app for keeping accountability of your diet and setting goals.
Available on iTunes and Google Play
FitBit
We have been longtime users of almost every Fitbit device out there. Right now I’m currently using the Fitbit Alta, but you actually don’t even need a tracker to use the mobile app. Without a tracker, the Fitbit app can count your steps as long as you’re carrying your phone. It also allows you to create a food diary, track your weight and more. But I recommend picking up a Fitbit because the app becomes that much easier to use since it relays information to the app automatically. If you really want to take things to the next level (or if you’re guilty of automatically subtracting 5 lbs) you can also add the Fitbit Aria bathroom scale.
Available on iTunes and Google Play
Apple Health
Apple Health already comes preloaded onto iOS devices and is a comprehensive way to track your health. It records data such as Body Measurements, Fitness, Nutrition, Reproductive Health, Sleep, and even your vitals. It also offers a medical ID feature that provides information such as allergies and medical conditions in the event of an emergency.
This app is great because it actually keeps track of steps through your phone, you don’t even need to open the app. Since you’re already using your phone to play the game anyway, it really doesn’t get more convenient than that.
Available only on iOS
Thanks to my reliable Verizon Mobile service for keeping me connected for my new obsession…that also happens to be helping me keep my activity goals! #VZWBuzz