Down With the Tyranny of the Fitbit Original Article
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I saw this article posted, and believe it's important to address the assertions made here.
While I agree with this article in principle, I disagree with the fatalistic view of the fitness tracker space. It’s true that companies like Fitbit focus on intrinsic rewards that, by nature, decrease extrinsic motivations. However, this problem is not in the product itself, but rather the implementation of the product. I have spoken about this at length here.

Research has demonstrated that fitness trackers, such as Fitbit, can have positive effects on short-term exercise behavior. The article agrees with that point—for most people, increasing awareness of physical activity patterns can help to increase exercise behavior. However, once the initial novelty wears off, these products do little to encourage long-term exercise adherence. That doesn’t mean we should give up on them wholesale.

Today I'd like to briefly discuss an article I came across, titled Rethinking Exercise as a Source of Immediate Rewards, by Jane E. Brody with the NY Times. The article is based on research in exercise and motivation done by Dr. Michelle Segar, director of the University of Michigan Sport, Health and Activity Research and Policy Center (Go Blue!). I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Segar and I'm really excited about the research SHARP is doing, and I think it can make a huge impact in helping people initiate and maintain exercise. I'd recommend reading the article, and considering its implications as you head into the weekend.