Relying on wearable devices such as smartwatches or smartbands to prevent health issues and ultimately replacing medical professionals can be very dangerous. While these devices offer convenience and quick access to health data, they may lack accuracy and depth in their assessments. Misinterpretation of data or failure to detect critical health indicators could lead to delayed or inaccurate diagnoses.

In simple terms, smartwatches have yet to replace clinically validated equipment in hospitals as they are not able to provide the same accuracy and reliability in medical procedures. However, researchers are actively seeking ways to integrate these devices into clinical practice, considering their presence as an aid, rather than a full-fledged substitute.

A project in the UK has investigated whether the Garmin Venu 2 and a dedicated app could streamline medical processes, potentially saving time for healthcare professionals.

The theory behind the idea: The Six Minute Walk Test

The Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a vital tool for diagnosing and monitoring various cardiovascular conditions, including potentially fatal ones such as Pulmonary Hypertension. Project leader Dr. Joseph Newman highlights its importance as a marker of cardiopulmonary function, also emphasizing its role in clinical practice worldwide.

[The test has been] a cornerstone of hospital practice and clinical trials for decades all around the world as […] a marker of how well the heart and lungs are working

But what does this test require? And how does it work?

The test involves a patient walking continuously for six minutes on a flat surface, while professionals monitor heart rate and blood oxygen levels. Despite its reliability, many healthcare professionals acknowledge its shortcomings and aim to innovate by shortening and digitizing the test for remote use.

And that’s where Garmin’s wearable technology and devices come in. Researchers wanted to revolutionize the test by potentially reducing it to just one minute and enabling patients to perform it at home using the Garmin Venu 2. Patients were instructed to walk outdoors, allowing for a more natural assessment of their physical capabilities.

The role of the patient at the center of the healing process

Giving patients the tools to complete tests at home has many benefits, including an improved representation of their daily lives and simpler long-term health tracking. Dr. Newman sees real value in providing patients with tools like an app and smartwatch for monitoring progress, potentially reducing the frequency of hospital visits.

We can see real value in providing patients with pulmonary hypertension with an app and smartwatch to monitor their progress. It’s unlikely to ever fully replace the need for in-person hospital reviews, but it will likely reduce their frequency.

Initial study results suggest that shortening the test to one minute does not compromise its accuracy, while patients are more likely to comply with regular testing when done at home.

While advancements like this hold potential for enhancing patient care and reducing healthcare burdens, they should always be viewed within the context of comprehensive medical oversight and personalized treatment plans. As we embrace the evolving landscape of digital health solutions, it is important to prioritize accuracy, patient-centric care, and the collaborative integration of technology with traditional medical practices.

Sound Meditations for Relaxation

Enhancing its meditation offerings, Fitness+ introduces a new meditation theme called “Sound.” This theme provides a unique experience with light guidance from Fitness+ trainers and soothing tones like singing bowls and gongs to create a sense of ease. With seven new sound meditations available in varying durations, users can incorporate relaxation into their routine.

Strength, Core, and Yoga for Golfers

In collaboration with professional golfer Rose Zhang, Fitness+ introduces a specialized workout program designed to enhance strength, stability, and mobility for golfers. The program spans strength, core, and yoga workouts and aims to improve balance, flexibility, and overall performance on the golf course.

Artist Spotlight Series

Music continues to be a crucial element of Fitness+ workouts, and the Artist Spotlight series takes this to the next level. In anticipation of the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show featuring USHER, Fitness+ will release workout playlists featuring iconic halftime performers like Rihanna, Britney Spears, and U2. This series adds a dynamic and motivational element to workouts.

Time to Walk Updates

Time to Walk, the award-winning audio experience on iPhone and Apple Watch, introduces new episodes with guests such as Al Roker, Trixie Mattel, Lilly Singh, Common, and Colman Domingo. Notably, select Time to Walk episodes will now be available on Apple Podcasts for users in 21 countries, even without a Fitness+ subscription.

Ring in the New Year Challenge

Apple Watch users can participate in the Ring in the New Year challenge, earning a limited-edition award by closing all three activity rings for seven consecutive days in January. This initiative aims to motivate users to kickstart their fitness journey in 2024.

Expanded Access to Fitness+

In a significant move, Fitness+ is expanding access by offering free subscriptions with Anytime Fitness memberships. Users trying Anytime Fitness for free can enjoy up to three months of Fitness+ at no cost. Additionally, those joining Anytime Fitness with a qualifying 12 months+ membership get their first 30 days of Fitness+ for free.

With these updates, Apple Fitness+ continues to be at the forefront of delivering a diverse and personalized fitness experience for users worldwide.

These new additions aim to cater to different aspects of well-being, from physical strength and flexibility to mental relaxation and motivation.

Apple’s commitment to user health and fitness remains evident as it introduces innovative features to support users on their wellness journeys.

Read the full press release here