This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.
Many fitness journeys begin at the same starting point: on the bathroom scales. Stepping on and off those scales and getting into shape is easier said than done, but it's worth the hard work. What you need is focus, commitment, and a helping hand. In this day and age that means tech-based assistance.
Indeed, there are plenty of products that will help make your journey a little easier. Everything from running watches to protein powders can give you the advantage. What about a set of smart scales? With all the advanced tech included, stepping onto a smart scale could be that first crucial leap towards your ultimate fitness goal.
But before you jump ahead and start shopping, let us help take some weight off your mind — and maybe your body — by explaining what makes these scales so smart.
What are smart scales?
Regular old scales only measure your weight, which is fine if that’s all you need. Smart scales provide you with extra data that helps tailor your weight-loss plan, with apps or online services to track various metrics and store information for you.
Most of the apps are compatible with the likes of Fitbit, Apple Health, and Google Fit, so you can sync your data to provide a clearer picture of your progress. Smart scales can provide the motivation to lose, maintain, or even gain weight.
Once you step on the scale, your information is recorded and sent to the accompanying app. These apps track your weight, providing charts that let you set goals for yourself. The ability to see goals and monitor progress can motivate you in ways that simply jotting down your weight can't or won't.
How do smart scales work?
Some scales use bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) technology to measure body composition. This technology uses electrical currents to gather measurements, so consult your doctor before hopping on if you are pregnant or have a pacemaker.
The number of measurements that are tracked will vary from scale to scale. Some only track a handful of metrics, like weight, fat, lean mass, and body mass index (BMI). Others, such as the RENPHO scale, track 13 different body composition metrics.
Some of these measurements might not be necessary for you to keep tabs on. If you are just casually watching your weight, for instance, you probably don’t need to track bone mass and skeletal muscle. Finding the right smart scales depends on which specific metrics you want to track, which features suit your lifestyle, goals, and medical history.
What is the perfect weight?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this, because it depends on your size and various factors, such as age, muscle-fat ratio, height, sex, and body shape.
The best way to determine whether you’re at a healthy weight is to measure your BMI. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. A BMI over 30 is considered obese. BMI measurement is standard on smart scales.
It's important to not obsess over these numbers. Everyone has a different set of circumstances that may influence where you fall on the scale. The most important thing to remember is that you're on your own personal fitness journey, and things take time. Focus on feeling fitter and healthier, and the rest will fall into place.
Which app do you need for smart scales?
The best app will depend on which smart scale you purchase. Some will need you to download and use a specific app, while others will have universal compatibility that syncs with popular fitness apps such as Garmin Connect, Nike+, and Google Fit.mCheck this out before making any purchase, because this could mean extra costs.
What is the best smart scale?
There’s a whole world of smart scales out there – and lots of brands you’ve probably never come across. You might feel more comfortable going with a brand you know, such as Fitbit or Garmin. These are well-trusted, top-of-the-range fitness tech manufacturers and their smart scales sync with their other devices.
We've scoured the internet and tracked down some of the very best smart scales from some of top brands. There should be something for everyone and every budget in this list. All you need to do is pick a favourite and jump on.
These are the best smart scales in 2024.
