How did Microsoft Band help you?

[Jon12345]

Ok, so you got your Microsoft Band. I agree, it must be great to get all that data. But how did it actually help you? What did you do with that data? How did it change your perception of things, motivate you or get you to change life direction? Did it actually change your life in any way? And is Microsoft Health any good?

I am considering getting the Microsoft Band 2 when it comes out. I don't have any other fitness tracker either, so I don't have the experience you guys have by using such a device.

Thanks,

Jon

 

[DroidUser42]

The pedometer made me push for a daily step count.

The sleep tracking has made me more aware of getting to bed on time - even for weekends.

 

[luxnws]

If you are a data driven person, then fitness devices like the Band allow you to more accurately track your progress. It helps if you are a health geek. Extreme case was the Microsoft presenter for the Band 2 who was using it to train for an ultramarathon. That is a pretty hardcore event, like 50 MILES, something that most people (safe to say 99.9% of the population on planet Earth?) would never even think of doing.

This might run counter to the Band 2 marketing but it might be better for a first time fitness band user to start with an entry level offering that a Fitbit or Garmin sells. Then if you find that you want more data and fitness options, then get a Band 2 device. You don't want to drop $250 for a Band 2 and use it for a month then just leave it in the drawer after that, right? The Band 2 looks like it can compete against similarly priced bands but range of offerings is where Fitbit and Garmin have an advantage over Microsoft right now.

 

[DroidUser42]

This might run counter to the Band 2 marketing but it might be better for a first time fitness band user to start with an entry level offering that a Fitbit or Garmin sells. Then if you find that you want more data and fitness options, then get a Band 2 device. You don't want to drop $250 for a Band 2 and use it for a month then just leave it in the drawer after that, right? The Band 2 looks like it can compete against similarly priced bands but range of offerings is where Fitbit and Garmin have an advantage over Microsoft right now.

But where does that leave you in terms of smart watch functions like notifications? And what is the price advantage? If you're suggesting they cheap out, have a look at the Band 1 which may still be available.

The nice things about notifications is that you can quickly tell if the incoming message is something you need to jump on or if it can wait. I'm not sure about reading on the band, but it is good enough to classify effort needed.

 

[luxnws]

But where does that leave you in terms of smart watch functions like notifications? And what is the price advantage? If you're suggesting they cheap out, have a look at the Band 1 which may still be available.

The nice things about notifications is that you can quickly tell if the incoming message is something you need to jump on or if it can wait. I'm not sure about reading on the band, but it is good enough to classify effort needed.

The original Band might be a great choice for a first time user. Amazon is selling the Band right now for $124-$127 depending on the wrist size selection. It easily beats the competition in that price range on features. That 'prototype' designation though.

On the smartwatch like functions like alerts and notifications, very true. If that's what you're looking for in a fitness band, Band/Band 2.

 

[anon(8555314)]

1. If you have to be on call, the Band allows you to turn off the sound on the phone, keep it in your pocket, and still be able to tell at a glance of the wrist whether something just happened that you need to respond to. I think this makes you far more present when doing things with your family or friends. You are far less obtrusive to your family, co-workers, and any others with whom you share space if you turn off your phone volume.

2. My sleep quality definitely improved due to the Band. That's a lot more important than most people realize, but it is esp. important for me.

3. Motivation to exercise more.

4. Far easier way of tracking exercise than opening smartphone, opening workout app, and clicking start.

5. Better post exercise analysis of exercise.

 

[anon(5327127)]

I was on a deep sea drilling rig and, after a minor scare, I trapped my arm in a pressure door that was closing. Luckily the band took the pressure otherwise my wrist might have been badly hurt.







Not really.