science and tech

Daniel Fierro

DeVry University

Predecessor to Weight loss and activity monitors.

Technology has affected how we do things on a daily basis from how we get information to way we eat and interact. Since the invention of the transistor technology has become smaller and everywhere in our lives. This also applies to fitness technology and the way we do fitness in our everyday life. This devices like heart rate monitors or step counter have changed the fitness game but were did all this come from?

The original predecessor to all current technology is the transistor developed in 1947 by scientist at Bell labs. In the past Vacuum tubes were used to amplify signals in a lot of devices. The issues was there size most of them were bulky generated heat and consumed a lot of power. It was small in size, generated very low heat, and was very dependable, making possible a breakthrough in the miniaturization of complex circuitry. The transistor heralded in the “Information Age” and paved the way for the development of almost every electronic device, from radios to computers to space shuttles. (John Berdeen)

Advancements in Medical Science such as understanding how the heart works began a new era in exercising. Heart rate monitor are used by medical professional to see how the heart is working. While understanding this science has led to when and how the body begins to burn fat or calories. Working out at about 60% to 75% of your maximum heart rate (the so-called "fat-burning zone") burns fewer calories than working out at 75% to 85% of your maximum heart rate (the so-called "aerobic" or "cardio" zone).(Truth About)

When exercising or working out many experts have always encourage everyone to keep a log of their activities. I remember going to gym just fifteen years ago and seeing people keeping notebooks on their routine and recording their heart rate. This need to keep record on their activities have develop the need for fitness monitors. Logs and routines can be keep on smart phone that monitor location and track speed.

These predecessor have changed the way we all use fitness technology in our lives. From the beginning of the transistor to our growing understanding of how our bodies work. The use of this devices have in most cases improved fitness levels from all walks of life’s and improved our quality of life.

Sources:

John Bardeen, William Shockley, Walter Brattain. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.aps.org/programs/outreach/history/historicsites/transistor.cfm

Truth About Heart Rate: Target Heart Rate, Monitors, and More. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/the-truth-about-heart-rate-and-exercise?page=2