Buzz
While the wrist is the most common spot for a fitness tracker, it’s not ideal for everyone. Certain professions, such as chefs and surgeons, often can’t wear wrist devices. Others might prefer traditional watches and want their fitness tracker positioned elsewhere. Thankfully, there are plenty of creative alternatives to explore.
Some trackers, like the trendy ring-style ones, are designed to avoid the wrist entirely. Others, originally meant for the wrist, can be adapted with accessories like clips or bands for different body parts. Let’s dive into options like rings, clips, bicep bands, ankle straps, and even smart clothing.
Opt for an ankle strap
If you’re attached to your current device, a simple strap replacement might be all you need. When I began incorporating kettlebell exercises into my routine, I experimented with fitting my Apple Watch band around my ankle—though this may not suit everyone. Luckily, extended bands are available for the Apple Watch and other fitness trackers. For instance, here’s one designed for the Fitbit Charge 5.
This versatile band isn’t limited to your ankle; it can also be worn on your arm. (Similar to what Whoop refers to as a “bicep band,” though technically, it’s worn above the bicep, not directly on it.)
Pros: Accurately tracks steps and often captures heart rate data, though positioning may require some trial and error to ensure optimal skin contact.
Cons: Accessing the watch or using interactive features can be awkward. Pausing a workout might necessitate sitting down. Additionally, not all wearable models have compatible aftermarket bands.
Consider a fitness ring
I’ve been a devoted user of the Oura ring for years (it’s a love-hate relationship, but mostly love). Wearing a watch around the clock irritates me, but a ring is barely noticeable. If Oura doesn’t appeal to you, alternatives like Ultrahuman offer premium options. For those on a budget, affordable rings such as this one from Zopsc are also available.
Pros: Simple to wear and remove. It’s so lightweight you might forget it’s there, especially if you’re accustomed to wearing rings.
Cons: Not suitable for weightlifting. Premium rings can be quite expensive.
Attach it to your belt
Fitbit once offered models that tracked steps via a clip on your belt or bra. (I fondly recall the bra clip from Misfit, a now-discontinued brand.) You can still find aftermarket clips for certain Fitbit and Garmin models, such as the Inspire. Simply remove it from the wristband and attach it to a clip like this one.
Pros: Accurately tracks steps regardless of what your hands are occupied with.
Cons: Lacks heart rate monitoring or any feature requiring skin contact. There’s also the risk of accidentally washing it if left on your waistband.
Integrate it into your clothing
Whoop’s tracker is typically worn on the wrist or bicep, but they also offer a “Body” clothing line with discreet pockets for the device. I tested one of their bras when the collection debuted, placing the Whoop device (without its strap) into a small pocket under the left armpit. It was comfortable, secure, and provided reliable data.
Their collection also includes shorts and underwear with waistband pockets, as well as a swimsuit featuring a pocket in a similar location. If you’re skilled with sewing, you could easily create custom versions of these items.
Pros: No additional straps to manage. It’s so unobtrusive that you might forget you’re even wearing it.
Cons: The buttons and display are inaccessible (which aligns perfectly with Whoop’s design, as it lacks both). You’ll need to plan your outfit to include Whoop-compatible underwear and consider having extras to handle laundry days.
