There’s no better opportunity to be proactive about your health than the start of another year.With February giving the promise of spring,now is a fantastic time to find better habits and learn how to be a healthier version of yourself.
From fitness trackers to blood pressure monitors, we’ve covered four of the best tools for improving your health from the comfort of your own home.
- Fitness trackers
Fitness trackers are one of the most convenient and accessible health tools.
With so many different types and models on offer from a wide selection of brands, there’s bound to be a smartwatch or device that suits your preferences and your budget.Whether you’re totally new to the world of fitness or you’re upgrading to follow a specific training plan, it’s likely that there’s a watch to cater for your needs.
As an example, the Garmin Forerunner series makes a very popular choice among triathletes and keen amateur runners too.
- Home diagnostics testing kits
You don’t always have to visit the doctor to learn more about your health in detail.Testing kits are a viable option for those seeking data and detail about their health: whether it’s vitamin levels or blood counts, it’s likely that there’s a testing kit out there for you.
Keeping tabs on health and fitness is equally important for younger and older adults. If you’re sexually active,home STI test kits could give you peace of mind without needing to book tests in-person at the clinic.
- Blood pressure monitors
Checking your blood pressure could be an important step in improving your health or managing the symptoms of an existing condition.
It’s worth learning how to choose a blood pressure monitor if you’re thinking about using one at home. You’ll need to make sure that it’s the right size, sufficient quality, and approved by the British and Irish Hypertension Society.
Taking and recording your blood pressure at home makes it easier to update your digital health records and liaise with your primary healthcare provider.
- Health coach
If you think you’d benefit from personal support and a tailored plan to help you achieve your goals, then it could be worth seeking the support of an experienced health coach.
As fully qualified professionals in bodily health and mental wellbeing, there are hundreds of UKIHCA-approved health coaches in major citiesacross the UK. What’s more, many of these can support you on a remote basis through written plans and video calls. They could provide you with plans for your nutrition, exercise and mental enrichment to help you feel happier and healthier.
- Wellbeing apps
Finally, downloading a wellbeing app could be the missing piece in creating a comprehensive health plan. Whether you use it to track your heart rate data or plan nutritious meals, there’s a wide variety of applications to choose from and use in the most productive way.
Headspace focuses on mental health and mindfulness, while other apps, including I Am Sober, are tailored towards recovering from addictions. There’s also the free NHS App, which facilitates checking your test results and booking appointments in just a few taps.
With one or more of the tools that we’ve listed above, you can soon start to build a better picture of your health in the future. Good luck!
