How To Stay Active While Flying For The Winter Holidays

Cue the holiday music! If you have to catch a flight home, you’ve probably already started prepping for the airport business ahead. Whether you’re headed to Grandma’s for Thanksgiving or planning to escape to a faraway sunny destination in December, the aches and pains of sitting on an airplane can feel impossible to avoid. 

Though cramped seats, invasive tray tables, and armrest battles may await, the news isn’t all bad. You’re going to have some well deserved time off, and we’ve talked to stretching specialists to get their advice on how to get your body through the airplane discomfort. Check out these tips before going wheels-up:

Walk for water. Drank all your H2O? Don’t wait for the bar cart to come to you—seize the opportunity to walk the aisle and ask for a refill. Remember, it’s important to move at least once an hour, and you also need to stay hydrated. “Drinking extra water and incorporating gentle Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) movements will help your circulation and joints,” says Diane Waye, AIS Specialist and owner of Stretching By The Bay. “Even a few minutes of AIS intermittently will help. You will feel better while flying, and when you arrive.” Pro tip: While you’re up, take a few extra laps up as long as the seat belt sign is off. 

Queue stretches. Is there a security, boarding, or bathroom line? Take the opportunity to try some stretches while you wait. Whether you’re in the air or not, it’s vital for your recovery to stretch before and after flying too. “AI Stretching while flying helps mitigate the effects of altitude and cramped seating,” says Waye. “It also increases circulation as well as range of motion (ROM). After flying it helps re-energize your body.” 

If you’re waiting at the carousel to retrieve your luggage, Waye suggests doing some overhead reaches—as if you’re picking cherries—or Standing Quad AI stretches. “Stand on one leg, don’t lock out your knee, and keep your hips level. Have a neutral pelvis and spine and start in a pelvic tilt to preempt arching your back. Grasp the ankle of your other leg, and with that heel in line with its same side sit-bone, inhale as you bring your knee up, then exhale as you engage your glute to reach that knee behind you. Hold for 1-2 seconds and repeat on the other side.”

Layover lunges. The airport is what you make it, and in this case, make it a gym! If you have extra time before your flight or are waiting for a connection, get moving. “Stiff, sore, and cramped muscles are certainly no way to begin or end a vacation,” says Jason Ramdeen, Physical Therapist and Stretch Practitioner at Stretched Out, Inc. in New York.

“Whether or not you’re on a plane, too much sitting can be extremely damaging to the body. The more you move, the more blood and oxygen flow your muscles will have.” Consider doing leg strides to or around your gate, moving with ease and confidence. “The simple act of using y0ur glutes to extend your trailing leg follow through helps keep your psoas, iliacus, and sartorius open,” says Waye.

Twist it out. After about an hour of being confined to small quarters, our bodies begin to get stiff and restless, which is why it’s important to stay flexible and fluid. Not only will you be more comfortable, but it will help avoid ailments such as blood clots, motion sickness, and back pain. If you’ve already gotten up a few times to walk the aisle, try these discreet chair stretches that your seatmate will barely notice:

• Tilt your head from shoulder to shoulder.
• Roll your ankles.
• Roll your shoulders backwards and forwards.
• Do a seated spinal twist.
• Pull your knees to your chest.
• Reach for your toes.
• Clasp both hands and raise them to the ceiling.

“You can even do a seated cat and cow,” says Waye. “Inhale as you arch your spine, then exhale as you round your back, drawing your navel in towards your spine. This and the spinal rotations listed above are also good for digestion, which is often disturbed by travel.”

Recover with compression socks. The not-so-secret remedy to swollen and sluggish legs? Compression socks. Evidence has shown that these tighter-than-your-average socks can help drastically during air travel. The idea is that they help circulate the blood back up the leg to the heart, which can reduce swelling in your feet and possibly lower your risk of blood clots. Puffy ankles would make anyone grumpy, so we suggest slipping on a pair as soon as you take your seat. 

Proper plane posture. To avoid slouching and being hyper-flexed in airplane seats, Waye suggests filling in the space between the head and hips with a jacket, blanket, or pillow. “Fill the space so that your head isn’t pushed forward by the headrest and your back isn’t rounded. Putting something under your hips to make them higher than your knees will also help you sit on the front of your sit bones.”

The post How To Stay Active While Flying For The Winter Holidays appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/stay-active-while-flying/

Up Your Festive Gifting Game With Fitbit’s Holiday Gift Guide

It’s the most wonderful time of the year again, and you know what that means—time to start tackling your holiday gifting list! Whether you’re shopping for the fitness enthusiast in your life, or looking for affordable options to help your loved ones improve their overall health and wellbeing, we’ve got you covered. 

In fact, there’s no time like the present (see what we did there?) to get into the holiday spirit and stock up for friends and family. Starting on November 28, you can get up to $60 off on select Fitbit products with our Black Friday Sale.* But the promo won’t stop there! 

Keep reading for plenty of holiday gifting inspo from Fitbit. 

For Your Inner Circle  

Versa 2. Show your favorite person how well they slept the night before Christmas with our latest and greatest premium smartwatch. The new Fitbit Versa 2 wraps innovative new sleep features and long battery life into a modern, versatile design.¹ Plus, it’s got Amazon Alexa Built-in, always-on display mode, and so much more.²

But that’s not even the best part—you can save $50 off Versa 2 during our Black Friday sale. 

For the Fitness Enthusiast 

Charge 3. Also on sale for Black Friday, don’t miss out on your chance to save $50 on our bestselling tracker, which features call, text, and calendar notifications, 24/7 heart rate tracking, and more. 

If your giftee is looking for the latest and greatest fitness tracker at a superior price point, gift them the sleek, swim-proof Charge 3.³ 

Fitbit Ionic. If you’re looking to spoil your favorite fitness enthusiast this holiday season, you’re in the right place. Splurge on the smartwatch that pushes your giftee to the limit—although at $50 off, you’ll be getting Ionic at a steal. 

Featuring built-in GPS for pace and distance, on-screen workouts, Fitbit Pay, the ability to store and play 300+ songs, and more, Fitbit Ionic is a no-brainer.†

For $100 or Less 

Versa Lite. Smartwatch can mean smart price! Track every activity in style, from decking the halls to dancing on New Year’s Eve with the lightweight Versa Lite. 

Starting Black Friday through Cyber Monday, you can get $60 off Fitbit Versa Lite. Yes, that means you can hit *add to cart* on this smartwatch for only $99.95—and purchase plenty of other stocking stuffers besides. What’s not to love?  

Inspire or Inspire HR. Sleigh the gifting game with Inspire or Inspire HR, also known as our friendly fitness tracker. With its easy-to-use touchscreen, backlit display, and on-screen dashboard, anyone from Grandpa to your 18-year-old cousin will appreciate the gift that continues to give (data) all year long. 

If they’re all “no smartwatch, no problem,” then give them Inspire HR or Inspire, available for $69.95 and $49.95 respectively. Plus, how chic is the Inspire HR in sangria? 

Aria Air. Does your giftee already have a favorite Fitbit tracker, smartwatch, or band? Bring their health and fitness data full circle with the Aria Air smart scale, complete with weight and BMI available in-app, to add to their fitness swag. 

Ace 2. The up, down, and all-around kid friendly Ace 2 is guaranteed to have your little rascal jumping for joy all holiday season and beyond. It’s perfectly snug and swim-proof; in addition, up to 5 days battery life keeps up with them from breakfast to bedtime.‡

For the One Who Likes Options

Accessories. No lines, just savings on accessories. Up your style game and save up to 25% on select accessories during the Black Friday Sale. 

With a variety of colors, textures, and styles, ranging from Versa 2’s Frost White Sport band to the Charcoal Woven band for Charge 3, Inspire HR’s Rose Gold Stainless Steel Mesh, and more, there are tons of options to pick from. And at these price points, who wouldn’t want to stock up? 

For When You’d Rather Shop Online 

Fitbit.com Exclusives. More accessories? Yes, please! 

The following bands are exclusively available on Fitbit.com: Versa 2 Horween Perforated Charcoal Leather band and Kim Shui for Fitbit Horween Merlot Suede wrap; Charge 3 Plum Horween Leather band and Navy Sport band; Versa Lite Edition Sunshine Classic band and Scarlet Classic band; Inspire HR Midnight Blue Horween Leather band; Inspire Cognac Horween Leather band and Silver Stainless Steel Mesh.   

This way, you don’t have to sacrifice your sanity trying to find a parking space at the mall or department store amid all the holiday shoppers. 

And Finally, For Yourself

Are you shopping for Y-O-U? Hey, there’s no shame in that game. Gift yourself a Fitbit Premium subscription this year, and get a head start on all those New Year’s resolutions. (Learn more about Fitbit Premium here.)** 

Or, you know, put any of the above products in your own stocking. We can’t promise it won’t get you on the naughty list, but we won’t tell. 

Shop Fitbit’s Black Friday Sale now. 

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*Sale applies to select Fitbit products on Fitbit.com while supplies last. Offer ends December 2, 2019 at 11:59pm PST. Purchase is limited to ten (10) Fitbit products. Exclusions apply. Cannot be combined with other discounts or applied after the order has been placed. Terms of offer are subject to change. Void where prohibited. 

¹Battery life varies with use and other factors. Versa 2 features may change, be discontinued, or require payment in the future.

²Alexa not available in all countries. See Fitbit.com/voice. Always-on display mode requires more frequent charging.

³Water resistant up to 50m.

†See bank availability at Fitbit.com/fitbit-pay. 

‡Battery life varies with use and other factors; animated clock faces require more frequent charging. Water resistant up to 50m.

**English only, not available in all countries. Content and features subject to change. 

The post Up Your Festive Gifting Game With Fitbit’s Holiday Gift Guide appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/holiday-gift-guide/

5 Features For Making The Turkey 5 Healthier Than Ever

The holidays are coming! The holidays are coming! Thanksgiving marks the start of the season, and all the delicious food, festive parties, and packed social calendars that come with it. Unfortunately, that often means a stretch where your activity level goes way down and number of indulgences go way up.

Instead of giving up completely on your health goals until January 1, why not use the “Turkey 5,” which is the five-day stretch from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday, as a chance to prove you can have your pumpkin pie and stay fit too? 

These five features on your Fitbit device will help you do just that: 

1. Reminders to Move: Feel the vibration on your wrist and you’ll be nudged to get up and walk at least 250 steps every hour. That’s crucial for this long weekend full of lounging around on the sofa. “It’s easy to get caught up in the trap of sitting around all day watching football, so this helps you remember to get up and move,” says Adrian Richardson, a certified personal trainer for the Fitbit Coach app. “That doesn’t have to mean going to the gym—get up and go for a walk with your family.”

2. Sleep Score & Sleep Tracking: Too many nights of poor sleep in a row will put a big dent in your energy levels. That’s why this feature is so helpful. In the mornings, check and see how your total sleep time and sleep quality was the night before. If it’s not good for a few nights, think about what you might be doing to cause your restlessness. “Don’t let late nights watching movies or overindulging in wine wreck your sleep all weekend long,” says Richardson.

3. Guided Breathing Sessions: In theory, the holidays are supposed to be all about peace. But the reality can be a lot more stressful (thank complicated family dynamics and high expectations for that). If you have a Fitbit device with the heart rate tracking feature, the Relax feature lets you check your heart rate and see if stress is making it spike. If it is, the guided breathing instructions can help you feel calmer quickly.

4. Step Challenge: Have a naturally competitive family? Use that to your advantage and start a Turkey 5 step challenge. Get everyone involved and see who can log the most steps through Monday. Winner gets bragging rights until the new year!

5. Hydration Tracking: Counting calories this weekend can be overwhelming, so think about focusing on fluids instead. “Your body needs a lot of water,” says Richardson. “It helps you digest food, so you’ll want to ensure you’re staying hydrated all weekend.” You can still have eggnog and sparkling cider, but alternate it with water to stay on track. Plus, you can track it right on your wrist with any Fitbit smartwatch. 

The post 5 Features For Making The Turkey 5 Healthier Than Ever appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/turkey-5-features/

Learn The Hack For Making Vegan Mashed Potatoes Incredibly Good

If dairy is a no-go for you, that doesn’t mean you have to pass up on mashed potatoes during Thanksgiving. You deserve a hefty scoop of buttery, rich potatoes no matter your dietary restriction. This recipe is vegan, though its flavor will fool even your most skeptical family members. Oat milk, non-dairy butter, and extra-virgin olive oil will impart all the creaminess you’re hoping for, and yet won’t leave you feeling heavy afterward. 

Plus, the secret for how you actually cook the potatoes will draw ears around the table. According to Food Network star Tyler Florence, the ultimate mashed potatoes hack involves boiling the potatoes in cream, butter, herbs, and cloves, then mashing that flavor-infused liquid back into the potatoes. 

The thought behind the method is that potatoes impart their flavor into the liquid they are cooked in. Why throw it out? Plus, the cream, butter, herbs, and garlic infuse flavor into the potatoes, so it’s flavor symbiosis at its finest. Though oat milk really works in this recipe due to its smooth texture and neutral taste, if you have another non-dairy milk you are into, go for it! 

Alternately, you can always cook the potatoes in water and mash it back into the mix. If vegan butters aren’t your thing, simply use extra-virgin olive oil. The same goes for the herbs. Any fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or oregano will work wonderfully with this recipe. Allow this method to be the blank canvas for all your vegan mashed potatoes moving forward!

INGREDIENTS:

3 large potatoes (13 oz/370 g), peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces

2 garlic cloves, peeled and ends cut off

3 sprigs rosemary

1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

2 tablespoons non-dairy butter, like Miyoko’s or Earth Balance

4 cups (32 fl oz/1 l) unflavored oat milk

Black pepper, to garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a large pot, combine all ingredients, except for the oat milk. Next, add enough oat milk to cover the tops of the potatoes. If you run out of milk (it happens!), just use a little water until the tops of the potatoes are submerged.

Cook on medium-high heat until potatoes are fork tender, about 20-25 minutes.

Place a large bowl under a colander in the sink. Drain the potatoes, reserving the liquid. Discard herbs.

Pour the potatoes back into the pot. Mash in the reserved liquid, a little at a time, until the potatoes are smooth, velvety, and fluffy in texture. If you don’t have a potato masher, improvise with a hand or stand mixer. The potatoes should effortlessly break down, no matter the method.  Reserve any remaining liquid to stir in when reheating the leftovers.

Serve while warm, drizzling additional olive oil and some black pepper on top. MAKES 6 SERVINGS.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories 190

Protein 4 g

Total fat 9 g

Saturated fat 3.5 g

Cholesterol 0 mg

Carbs 25 g

Fiber 2 g

Total sugars 4 g

Added sugars 0 g

Sodium 490 mg

The post Learn The Hack For Making Vegan Mashed Potatoes Incredibly Good appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/vegan-mashed-potatoes/

Healthy Holiday Recipe: Thanksgiving Root Veg Dressing

Unlike traditional dressings which call for a bread or cornbread base, this recipe gets its “breadiness” from chestnuts and walnuts. Olive oil roasted veggies are tossed into the mix along with crunchy pomegranate. Dairy-free, vegetarian, and gluten-free folks can also enjoy this homey dish. 

We recommend making this dish ahead of time. It tastes wonderful cold or at room temp, though it can be easily reheated on the stovetop or microwave (although it may lose some of its crispiness). It even makes for wonderful brunch leftovers, served with a fried egg and some shredded cheese on top. 

INGREDIENTS:

1 celeriac, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces 

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided

1 large parsnip, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces 

1 large carrot, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces 

1 leek, ends removed, cut into ½-inch pieces, and rinsed thoroughly 

10 cremini and/or white button mushrooms, quartered 

7 ounces (220 g) whole, peeled, ready-to-use chestnuts

1 cup (8 oz / 125 g) raw walnut halves and pieces

Pomegranate seeds from 1 fruit 

¼ cup (1½ oz / 45 g) dried cherries (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS: 

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two half sheet pans (18” x 13” x 1”/46 cm x 33 cm x 2.5 cm) with parchment paper.

In a medium mixing bowl, toss the diced celeriac with ½ tablespoon of olive oil and a three-finger pinch of salt. Scatter celeriac out onto half of the prepared baking sheet.

Repeat the same process with parsnips and carrots, scattering them onto the other half of the baking sheet.

Before tossing the leaks in olive oil, be sure you have rinsed them very thoroughly, at least three times, until no soil or sediment remains. Toss with ½ tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt. Scatter them onto half of the other baking sheet.

Repeat the same process with the mushrooms, tossing them in ½ tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Scatter on the other half of the second baking sheet.

Roast both baking sheets for 30 to 40 minutes, rotating halfway through cook-time and using tongs or a spatula to flip the veggies. The root veggies will be tender and caramelized brown. The mushrooms will cook down quite a bit. The leeks will appear crisp.

When veggies have finished roasting, remove them from the oven and add them to a large mixing bowl. Toss with chestnuts, walnuts, and pomegranate seeds (and cherries, if using). Makes 10 servings.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories 170

Protein 4 g

Total fat 10 g

Saturated fat 1 g

Cholesterol 0 mg

Carbs 19 g

Fiber 3 g

Total sugars 5 g

Added sugars 0 g

Sodium 125 mg

The post Healthy Holiday Recipe: Thanksgiving Root Veg Dressing appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/healthy-thanksgiving-stuffing/

Five Fabulous Fall Foods

This fall, if you’re more excited about the foliage than the in-season produce, you probably aren’t thinking beyond predictable apples and pumpkins. But there are so many other tasty, nutritious foods that are at the peak of freshness during autumn—and they are available at local farmers markets and in the supermarket produce aisle.

“Eating seasonally is a great idea and can be a fantastic way to increase the variety in your diet,” says Randy Evans MS, RD, LD, a Kansas City, Missouri-based registered dietitian and consultant for Fresh n’ Lean. “The primary benefit to eating fresh foods, and following foods that are in season, is that it can boost the nutritional value [of the food]. Nutritional values can decline by one-third within a few days of harvest.”

When you’re shopping this month, instead of mindlessly plunking the same old fruits and vegetables into your basket, vary what you choose based on the seasons. “There are always unique phytochemical benefits from eating produce, but when it’s in season, tastier, and cheaper—and it could inspire more frequent produce consumption, everyone wins,” says Monica Auslander Moreno, MS, RD, LD/N, a Miami-based nutrition consultant.

Keep an eye out for these five fall foods:

Cranberries

You probably associate cranberries with a certain fall holiday, but it would be a shame if you only ate them once a year, as an over-sweetened accompaniment to your turkey and stuffing. “Cranberries aren’t just good for sauce,” says Brenna O’Malley, RD, a New York City-based registered dietitian and founder of The Wellful. “You can add whole berries to your breakfast cereal for some added fiber, antioxidants, and crunch… One cup of raw cranberries packs more than 20% of your daily vitamin C, 4 grams of fiber, and plenty of antioxidants.”

There are other ways to incorporate cranberries into your meals. “Cranberries are delicious blended in a smoothie, such as one with a plant-based milk such as almond milk, freshly chopped ginger, banana, and berries,” says Lori Tseytin, a holistic health coach based in Englewood, New Jersey. “The tart flavor of cranberries pairs well with bold flavors like ginger.”

Brussels sprouts

These pint-sized veggies are often sold on stalks when they’re in season, with dozens of buds per stalk, each one bursting with nutrition. “Brussels sprouts are known to help our bodies with detoxification [by supporting a healthy liver], while boosting antioxidant intake,” Evans says. “They also contain great levels of vitamin K, vitamin C, folate, manganese, fiber, and potassium.”

For a simple side dish, halve them and toss them into a frying pan. “Brussels sprouts are delicious sautéed with spices such as red pepper and garlic, coconut oil, lemon, and a pinch of Himalayan sea salt,” Tseytin says.

Pomegranates

You’ll get the most nutrition out of this tangy seasonal fruit if you eat the seeds at the center of each aril, or kernel-sized piece of pomegranate. “Pomegranates are high in antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium, and if you’re eating the seeds, they’re a great source of fiber,” O’Malley says. “Eating the seeds whole will also provide more fiber than the juice—five grams for three-quarters of a cup.”

There are a number of ways to enjoy pomegranates. “Since they are crunchy, pomegranate seeds are a great addition to salads, salsas, cereals, and yogurt,” says Jennifer Glockner, RDN, a Los Angeles-based registered dietitian nutritionist and creator of Smartee Plate. “Pomegranate is also delicious in salmon and poultry dishes, glazing with pomegranate molasses.”

Parsnips

This root vegetable has a look similar to carrots, but it’s less sweet, with a nuttier flavor. “They’re a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate,” O’Malley says. “Parsnips have both soluble and insoluble fiber, which supports your digestive health and can help support blood-sugar levels.”

Mash them, roast them, add them to soups or stews, or make them the star of their own side dish. “Try them as parsnip fries,” O’Malley says. “Cut them lengthwise, season with olive oil, fresh rosemary, chopped garlic, and cumin, then roast.”

Hazelnuts

You may find these fiber-rich, nutrient-dense nuts in farmers markets or the produce aisle during fall, when they’re harvested. “They’re a source of vitamin E and also have a small amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and help boost your HDL (good) cholesterol,” O’Malley says.

Serve hazelnuts anywhere that you’d include almonds, walnuts, or other nuts. “Toasted hazelnuts are great in salads, veggie dishes, and stuffing,” Glockner says.

The post Five Fabulous Fall Foods appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/fabulous-fall-foods/

Is It Better To Sleep With Fresh Air?

Do you sleep more soundly when you leave your windows open during cooler weather? It isn’t your imagination—research shows that people may get better-quality sleep when fresh air circulates in the bedroom.

A recent study published in the journal Indoor Air found that when people slept in rooms with ventilation—either with an open window or open door—compared to an unventilated room, their sleep improved, they woke up fewer times per night, and carbon dioxide levels in the room were lower. As carbon dioxide levels decreased, people slept more soundly and their awakenings decreased.

“Carbon dioxide levels are taken as a proxy of how good the air quality is,” says study author Asit Kumar Mishra, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher with the Berkeley Education Alliance for Research in Singapore. “Higher carbon dioxide levels imply poorer ventilation. This, in turn, would imply an increase in other pollutants in the room as well. The impact on sleep could be as a result of the increase in levels of multiple indoor pollutants. In a manner, it is similar to how occupant performance reduces when they have to work in buildings with less than optimal ventilation.”

Better concentration

Other research has shown that rooms ventilated by open windows or air-intake fans had lower carbon dioxide levels, and people who slept in such rooms reported feeling better-rested the next morning, with improved concentration levels. They also scored better on logic tests than people who had slept in unventilated rooms.

This may be because ventilated rooms are likely to contain more oxygen, which may be linked to better cognition. “Our brain… requires energy at any time of the day, including during sleep, because this is when memory formation and information processing happens,” says Eva Cohen, a certified sleep science coach with Kansas-Sleep in Kansas City, Kansas.

“When we produce energy, we utilize both glucose and oxygen during a chemical reaction called glycolysis. [A] lack of oxygen in the air can make the glycolysis slower, thus putting the brain in ‘hungry mode’ and interfering with its work.”

Effects on exercise

Researchers haven’t yet studied the effects of fresh air on sleep quality and athletic performance, but some experts believe that nighttime exposure to fresh air may positively impact physical performance, in addition to cognitive performance.

“The effect of sleep on exercise is an evolving field of study, but research suggests that sleep plays an important role in athletic performance,” says Paul Reehal, MD, a Las Vegas-based sports medicine specialist and consultant for Sleepline. “Sleeping in a room with an open window may lead to better workouts by improving air circulation and providing a cool sleep environment.”

Testing the waters

You can try sleeping with your windows open for a few nights to see if it impacts your sleep quality. “It’s best to open windows a bit, but not too wide, to minimize entry of noise and light,” Reehal says. “Opening more than one window will allow for better air circulation.”

Sleeping with an open window isn’t ideal in every circumstance. During hot weather, it may make your bedroom uncomfortably warm, which could interfere with sleep quality. And if you live near train tracks, a flight path, or a fire station, keeping your window open would allow more noise than usual into your room—and noises like these may disrupt your sleep, according to research.

If you don’t want to open your bedroom window because of the heat or noise outside, leave your bedroom door open when you go to sleep instead. “Our findings suggested that opening a door, while not as good as opening a window in terms of the carbon dioxide levels maintained, still provided similar quality of sleep,” Mishra says. “Leaving the bedroom door open even slightly keeps the bedroom air connected with the larger house air, and thus, [a] rise in any indoor pollutant level is much slower.”

The post Is It Better To Sleep With Fresh Air? appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/sleep-with-fresh-air/

Harley’s Top 5 Moves To Target Your Abs That Aren’t Sit-Ups

When many people think of abdominal muscles, they think of the six pack at the front of their midsection, and that it consists of just six small muscles. In reality, it’s actually much more than that. Our core, which is made up of 35 muscles, is what helps connect the upper body to the lower body and allows us to bend forward, backward, side to side, and round and round.

A common mistake people make when working out is overdoing the front of the room abdominis, otherwise known as the rectus abdominis. If you only focus on these and neglect the other muscles, you end up creating a bent forward posture and even the illusion of a pooch when you might not even have extra body fat there. This can also lead to lower back pain and bad posture.

With that said, below is a list of the main muscle groups, as well as movements and exercises you can try to strengthen your entire core—so that you can look and move your best.

Bend forward for rectus abdominis. For this movement, I love a pike plank. To do so, get in a push-up position on the ground and slowly contract the front of your abdominals by driving your belly button in towards your sternum; then vice versa. Once you’ve contracted in this motion, slowly open your abdominals back to the neutral position.

Bend backwards for Erector spinae muscles. For this movement, I love an alternating Superman. Lying on the ground face down with your arms extended forward and your legs back, slowly lift your left arm and right leg up and then return them to the ground. Then do the same with the other side. Keep going back and forth. This is a fantastic movement to open up the front of the abdominals, and for strengthening the back of the core.

Side to side for obliques. Try the dumbbell side band movement: Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, with a dumbbell in your right hand hanging down the right side of your body. Your left arm should be bent with your left fingertips against your left temple. Slowly let the dumbbell slide right down your side as your left elbow tilts up towards the ceiling, then contract your left side as the dumbbell gradually makes its way back up to the starting position.

Spider-Man planks for rectus abdominis, obliques, and lower back. When in plank position, bring your right knee towards your right elbow, bring it back, and do the same on the left side; then bring it back. Keep alternating.

Round and round for Transverse abdominals. Try the lower body trunk twist. Lying with your back on the ground with your arms extended out sideways and your knees bent and up towards the ceiling, slowly rotate your lower body clockwise halfway until you hit the ground, and then back the other way. Keep going back and forth.

The post Harley’s Top 5 Moves To Target Your Abs That Aren’t Sit-Ups appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/harleys-top-5-ab-moves/

The Latest Fitbit OS Update Brings New Sleep Tools, Clock Faces, Apps And More To Your Wrist

Exciting news, Fitbit fans! The latest update to Fitbit OS is incoming, and there’s plenty to get amped about when it comes to new (and free) updates. From new sleep tools to maximize your Zzz’s to a newly designed exercise app with 20 exercise modes to choose from, this update is not one to miss! 

And, if you are a Versa 2 user, your device experience just got even sweeter. With an enhanced always-on display experience, a more accurate heart rate algorithm and an update to Amazon Alexa-Built in, all with 6+ days battery life, this update is jam packed.

There’s a lot to take in, so keep reading to discover everything that’s exciting and innovative about this release. Then be sure to install the Fitbit OS update to start experiencing it for yourself! 

What’s New on Versa 2? 

Always-on display mode enhancements. We’re excited to share that our recently-launched always-on display mode on Versa 2 is even better than before! Five additional clock face options are now available in color with faster transitions between always-on and active views. All powered by your device’s AMOLED display. (Always-on Display requires more frequent charging.)*

With always-on display mode, you can check the time and see your exercise stats in real time without having to interact with your device. The time and your workout metrics are just a glance away. (Note: If your device is in exercise mode, stats will continue to update every 60 seconds.)

Amazon Alexa “start exercise.” Start an exercise with your voice; finish it with your commitment. Versa 2 users will soon be able to use the Fitbit skill for Amazon Alexa to start an exercise from their wrist with Amazon Alexa Built-in, making tracking your workouts easier than ever.†* Find out how to set up the Fitbit skill for Amazon Alexa here.

More accurate heart rate tracking. We’ve been working on a unique, advanced algorithm that will deliver the best heart rate tracking experience yet on a Fitbit device. The new PurePulse algorithm, designed in-house by Fitbit R&D experts, uses machine learning to recognize the unique signature of heart rate in the optical sensor, leading to higher accuracy overall.*

Available to All Smartwatches 

More advanced sleep tools. Get better in bed—no, seriously. Released for all smartwatches, your nightly Sleep Score is now available on your wrist (as well as remaining available in the Fitbit app)! Sleep Score helps your understand how well you sleep, based on three categories: sleep duration, time in deep and REM sleep, and sleep restoration. Plus, your smartwatch already tracks your time spent in light, deep, and REM sleep allowing you to dig deeper into your sleep data.* 

And, you can now level up your sleep with Smart Wake, the smart alarm that uses machine learning to wake you during the most optimal time in your light or REM sleep cycle within a 30-minute interval prior to the start of your set alarm. Find out more about Fitbit’s other innovative sleep tools here.*

Exercise app redesign. We’ve updated the exercise app to have a new look and feel. Not only are visuals more streamlined, but you can now add all exercise shortcuts on device, and access 20 exercise modes all from your wrist.*

Clock face switcher app. You asked, we answered! The Clock Face switcher enables you to save five clock faces within the app, and toggle between them on wrist.*

Agenda app. We’ve even added a new agenda app to help manage your daily schedule right from your wrist.*

So what are you waiting for? With these new and upgraded Fitbit OS features, you’ll be more efficient than ever before. Fitbit OS update will be available for all users starting on December 3.

*Coming soon.

†Amazon Alexa not available in all countries, see fitbit.com/voice. Amazon account and Alexa app with Fitbit skill enabled required, phone must be nearby.

The post The Latest Fitbit OS Update Brings New Sleep Tools, Clock Faces, Apps And More To Your Wrist appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/new-fitbit-os-release/

Use Fitbit’s New Wellness Report To Have A More Informed Conversation With Your Doctor

Imagine having your health and wellness data accumulated in one place so that you can easily visualize your trends on a monthly basis. Now imagine being able to present that data in an easy to export report. Good news, with Fitbit’s Wellness Report feature for Premium users you can do just that!

We wanted to provide a more comprehensive view into your data in a report that makes the best use of your limited time with your healthcare professional. Now we ask, what are you waiting for? Get proactive about your health and wellness with Wellness Report and share an analysis of your Fitbit activity ranging from sleep, heart rate, and weight trend data (depending on which device you use and the data you share) with your healthcare professional, personal trainer or nutritionist so you can have a more informed conversation.*

What Is A Wellness Report?

Fitbit worked with a range of family care, sleep, ER and ICU physicians along with several medical professionals from leading facilities as consultants to advise on a Wellness Report that is easy to understand and provides an overview of a person’s health and wellness data. The Wellness Report will include detailed trend data and graphs, as well as additional analysis of your activity, heart rate, sleep and weight data that can help your team offer more personalized guidance for your care.* Over time, we plan to add more metrics, trends, and insights.

• 

• 

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How It Works

Premium users now have access to a printable and easy-to-read overview of their health and wellness data, including stats and charts for their heart data, weight (if tracked or self-logged), sleep and activity for the last 30 days and up to the last year. We’ll also include some guidelines to help you understand what this data means for you.  

The Wellness Report is available within the Discover tab, inside the Health & Fitness Stats section. If you do not see the Wellness Report ensure that you have the latest version of the Fitbit app.

As for non-Premium users, the free export of up to 31 days worth of data for weight, activity and sleep continues to be available to you (see Instructions). Additional data is also provided for free to all users by exporting your account archive.

*Requires using a Fitbit device for at least 30 days; some data require a heart rate enabled device. For weight tracking, connect with a Fitbit scale or log weight in the app.

The post Use Fitbit’s New Wellness Report To Have A More Informed Conversation With Your Doctor appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/fitbit-premium-wellness-report/

Healthy Holiday Recipes: A Simple But Delicious Roasted Turkey

Yes, you can celebrate Thanksgiving deliciously, all while sticking with your healthy eating goals—starting with the roasted turkey. The solution for remaining keto, paleo, Whole30, or gluten-free on Thanksgiving lies in this simple recipe, which only calls for four ingredients: turkey, extra-virgin olive oil or ghee, salt, and arrowroot starch. 

In this recipe, an 11-pound, pasture-raised turkey was used. Beyond being free of any flavor additives or sodium solutions, pasture-raised turkey tends to be leaner, since the birds are raised outdoors and are free to forage (rather than rely 100% on grain feed). Because the birds have space to flap their wings and move around quite a bit, even the white meat can take on a pink-ish hue. This is due to the increased muscle mass and oxygen flowing to these areas. Don’t be alarmed if your thermometer reads 165°F (74°C), but the meat is still slightly pink.

If your schedule permits, pre-salt the bird 12-24 hours before roasting and store it in the fridge uncovered to help dry out the skin. This dry-brining process will help lock in the meat’s flavor and moisture, while resulting in crispy skin. We’re taking a low and slow approach to cooking the bird, roasting at 325°F (165 °C). Always let the bird rest for at least 30 minutes before serving. That way the liquids from the meat reabsorb, so they don’t leak out when you carve. In the meantime, you can get busy preparing the gravy.

INGREDIENTS:

1 whole turkey, patted dry with paper towels 

1 tablespoon kosher salt, or to taste

Neck of turkey (you may use giblets too)

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (or melted ghee) 

6 cups water

4-5 tablespoons arrowroot powder

4-5 tablespoons cold water

Freshly ground pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

Salt body and inside neck cavity. Truss legs. Place bird, breast side up, on top of a trivet (or foil ring) rested on a plate, and refrigerate uncovered for 12-24 hours. When ready to roast, preheat oven to 325°F (165 °C). Transfer bird (and trivet) to a shallow roasting pan, casserole dish, or cast iron pan. 

Place in oven and roast, undisturbed, until the turkey has reached the desired internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). It will heat to 165°F (74°C) through carry over cooking when removed from the oven. If the top of the bird begins to brown too quickly, place a foil tent loosely on top of the turkey during the last hour of roasting. Our 11-pound bird took 3 hours and 45 minutes to cook. 

Though cooking times may vary by up to 30 minutes, use this chart to estimate the roasting time of your bird:

10-14 pounds: 2½ to 3½ hours

14-18 pounds: 3½ to 4 hours

18-22 pounds: 4 to 4½ hours

22-26 pounds: 4½ to 5 hours

26-30 pounds: 5 to 5½ hours

Meanwhile, in a medium-sized pot, heat olive oil or ghee over medium-high heat. Add neck (and optional giblets), and cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until caramelized. Add water and allow to simmer, skimming any foam, until water reduces by half. Strain liquid into a measuring cup. Discard neck and giblets—or alternatively, chop them up finely and add them to the gravy in the last step. Transfer strained liquid back into the pot.

Transfer the turkey onto a rimmed cutting board and allow to rest for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, pour a bit of the turkey stock into the bottom of the pan. Use a wooden spoon or a whisk to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Once it has dissolved, strain it through a fine mesh sieve and transfer it into the pot with the stock. Heat it over the stove on low.

Whisk 5 tablespoons of arrowroot into equal parts cold water. Whisk mixture, 1 tablespoon at a time, into stock pot until sauce thickens. The mixture should be clear, not cloudy, and coat the back of the spoon. Do not let the sauce come to a boil, otherwise the arrowroot powder will not thicken. Salt and pepper to taste. If it needs a little acid, spritz a bit of lemon. If using shredded turkey neck and chopped giblets, whisk them in now. 

Serve gravy alongside turkey. Plus, a few healthy sides. Makes 24 servings.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories 220

Protein 32 g

Total fat 9 g

Saturated fat 2 g

Cholesterol 105 mg

Carbs 2 g

Fiber 0 g

Total sugars 0 g

Added sugars 0 g

Sodium 410 mg

The post Healthy Holiday Recipes: A Simple But Delicious Roasted Turkey appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/healthy-roasted-turkey/

Tips For Preparing For Your First Triathlon

So you’ve signed up for your first triathlon. Congratulations! Now all you have to do is get gear, get fit, and get excited. There are tons of books, podcasts, blogs, and probably even friends who can tell you what “stuff” to buy and how to train. At a bare minimum, on the gear side, you need a bathing suit (or other running/cycling outfit that can get wet), a bicycle, a helmet, and a pair of sneakers; everything else is a matter of comfort and preference. As for training, you really just need to swim, bike, and run . . . a lot. Again, the methodology you follow is really up to you.

With these elements in hand, you’ll be just about ready to race. However, there are a few more tips and tricks that will be useful no matter if your goal is to simply cross the finish line, or if you have a specific time in mind. First and foremost: practice anything you want to do on race day before race day. If this sounds basic, it’s because it is; yet athletes flout this advice all the time, and almost always to their own detriment.

With “practice before race day” as a baseline, here are several activities to try in advance that will give you a little extra edge come race day:

Swimming in open water. Open water can be scary (even for veteran swimmers!), so try to swim in a river, lake, or ocean at least once in advance. This will help allay any panic you might feel when you get in the water on race morning. Swimming outdoors also provides a good opportunity to test your goggles against murky water and sunlight, both of which can spell trouble on race day if you’ve only trained in an indoor pool.

Getting into and out of your wetsuit. It goes without saying that if you practice swimming in your wetsuit ahead of time, you will also practice putting it on and taking it off. However, it’s worth giving extra attention to the “removal” process, because if you struggle getting out of your wetsuit, you risk wasting a lot of time and energy in the first transition of your race.

Changing a bike tire. No one wants a flat, but these things happen, and if you don’t know how to change one on your own, you could be stranded on the course for quite a while before help comes. If you’re fairly bike-savvy, look up a YouTube video or check if your local bike shop has classes.

Doing a “brick” workout. This involves either getting out of the pool and immediately onto your bike, or, more commonly, getting off of your bike and immediately going for a run—just like you’ll do in the race. Practicing these transitions can be a logistical challenge, so make sure you plan to store your bike somewhere safe either before or after you need it.

Eating on the bike and the run. Depending on the length of your race, you’ll need to consume calories during the bike and/or run segments of your race. Do plenty of practice sessions with whatever you are considering eating and drinking on race day to make sure it sits well with your stomach and doesn’t cause you any gastrointestinal distress (read: emergency bathroom breaks).

Running with bungee laces. Some triathletes thread these special laces—also called “speed laces”—into their running shoes to shave off time in transition, because the laces save you from having to tie your shoes. However, it’s important to try them out in advance, because if they’re too tight, you could wind up with foot pain, and if they’re too loose, your shoe might fall off!

The post Tips For Preparing For Your First Triathlon appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/first-triathlon-prep/

6 Self-Massage Techniques to Ease Tension

When you’re feeling tense, tight, or stressed (or just want to pamper yourself), nothing beats going to get a massage. But sometimes you need relief fast—or don’t have the money to spend at a fancy spa! In those cases, relaxation can be found a lot closer to home. Self-massage—where you use your own hands or props like a tennis ball or foam roller to work out kinks and get muscles to loosen up—can be the perfect way to unwind after a tough day. Here are some techniques to get you started:

For your tired toes: Cross your right leg over the left knee and weave your fingers on your left hand in between the toes on your right foot. Keep your hand in that position while circling your ankle in both directions, then switch feet. “It’s a wonderful way to mobilize your toes and stretch them out, especially if you wore cramped or narrow shoes that day,” says Jill Miller, author of The Roll Model.

 For your aching feet: “Your foot has 26 bones, which means there are so many joints down there,” says Miller. “Improving the movement of your foot will help how your entire body moves.” Here’s what she suggests: Stand with a tennis ball under one of your feet and roll the ball under the entire foot, stopping when you hit a particularly tight spot. If it feels like too much pressure, you can do this while sitting or leaning against a wall. When that foot feels better, move on to the other one.

For your tight neck: Lie on your side with a foam roller under your neck. “It should be snug in the area between your jaw and shoulder,” says Vivian Eisenstadt, an orthopedic physical therapist and owner/head physical therapist at Vivie Therapy. “Let the foam roller find all your trigger points on the side of your neck, then roll a little onto your back and a little towards your front (just don’t let it press on the front of your neck).” Repeat that motion on the other side.

For your tense shoulders: Hunched over your computer all day? This move will help you out. Get two tennis balls, lie down on the ground, and place them under your shoulders (try to get them around the spot where backpack straps would hit). Place your feet on the floor and raise your pelvis up a few inches to increase the pressure on the balls. From there, raise your arms and sway them above you like seaweed. This should move the balls around the upper shoulder zone. “These muscles work to keep your head upright all day long, so they tend to be overworked,” says Miller.

For your sore lower back: Stand and place your hands on your hips with thumbs on your back. Work your thumbs into your spine, then down over your hip bones. “You’ll be able to feel the tension where you’ve been sitting,” says Amber Lamont, a massage therapist based in Alberta, Canada.

For your overworked hands: When you’ve been typing for hours on end, your hands can feel cramped and exhausted. When that happens, use one hand to work out the other. “Use your right hand’s fingers to pull down each finger on your left hand, from base to tip, while twisting back and forth,” says Lamont. “Then work your right thumb into the palm of the left hand, doing circular motions. Pay extra attention to the area between your thumb and forefinger because it can get really sore there.” Then repeat on your other hand.

The post 6 Self-Massage Techniques to Ease Tension appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/self-massage-techniques/

Be Searchable With Fitbit’s Newest Accessory

Your boots are strapped, your helmet is secure, and you’re ready to have an amazing day on the mountain or out on the trails. But those “what if?” thoughts might linger in the back of your mind, as they sometimes do before any outdoor venture. Though exhilarating, risks are always a part of the reality of wilderness sports. 

That’s why Fitbit has partnered with RECCO to help make you more searchable. Our new RECCO smartwatch accessory band has an integrated RECCO rescue reflector, a passive transponder that uses radar technology. This allows rescue teams across the globe using RECCO detectors to more efficiently locate you in the event of an outdoor emergency.

So wherever your adventures take you—whether it’s off-piste skiing or snowboarding, or biking or hiking your favorite trails deep in the backcountry, Fitbit is helping you be more prepared. 

How Does RECCO Technology Work? 

The RECCO detector is carried by the rescuer and the RECCO reflector is carried or worn by the user. In the case of an emergency, the rescuer uses the RECCO detector to emit a directional radar signal, like the beam of a flashlight, to locate the reflector that is on your band. 

When the radar signal hits the reflector, it is echoed back to the detector and points the rescuer in your direction. The closer the detector gets to the reflector the stronger the returned-signal, ultimately allowing the rescuer to pinpoint your location. 

Always Be Searchable

Although the reflectors can be located in a range up to 80 meters through air and 20 meters through packed snow, the more you have on you, the more searchable you are. The best part is, you never have to activate or charge your RECCO reflector.

“Avalanche risk is something I take very seriously and when I’m deep in the backcountry, I look for added safety,” says Chris Davenport, legendary backcountry skier. “The RECCO woven band for Fitbit is a great addition to my kit.” 

Whether it’s your first RECCO purchase or just an addition to your RECCO effects, the woven band for Fitbit lets you embrace your inner adventurer with the peace of mind you need. “I’m outside and on the trails every single day and I need equipment that blends seamlessly into my day to day life,” says Davenport. “RECCO technology requires no power and allows me to focus more on what I love to do.” 

Plus, we’ve partnered with RECCO to drop some knowledge: Everyone who purchases this accessory will receive a few tips for safer outdoor adventures, as well as a link to download “The Plan” from RECCO. What’s The Plan, you ask? It’s a set of safety procedures—including an important course of action—that will help snow goers of all levels be prepared before strapping in. 

For more information on Avalanche Safety, check out RECCO.com and Know Before You Go. Check out more RECCO technology-equipped products such as helmets, boots and jackets here. 

RECCO technology is not a substitute for an avalanche transceiver. RECCO technology does not prevent avalanches or guarantee the survival or localization of a victim or lost person. Knowledge and common sense are the best ways to avoid accidents. Always respect safety rules and regulations.

The post Be Searchable With Fitbit’s Newest Accessory appeared first on Fitbit Blog.

source https://blog.fitbit.com/be-searchable-with-recco/

Fitbit to Be Acquired by Google

SAN FRANCISCO–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Fitbit, Inc. (NYSE: FIT) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Google LLC for $7.35 per share in cash, valuing the company at a fully diluted equity value of approximately $2.1 billion.

“More than 12 years ago, we set an audacious company vision – to make everyone in the world healthier. Today, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved towards reaching that goal. We have built a trusted brand that supports more than 28 million active users around the globe who rely on our products to live a healthier, more active life,” said James Park, co-founder and CEO of Fitbit. “Google is an ideal partner to advance our mission. With Google’s resources and global platform, Fitbit will be able to accelerate innovation in the wearables category, scale faster, and make health even more accessible to everyone. I could not be more excited for what lies ahead.”

“Fitbit has been a true pioneer in the industry and has created terrific products, experiences and a vibrant community of users,” said Rick Osterloh, Senior Vice President, Devices & Services at Google. “We’re looking forward to working with the incredible talent at Fitbit, and bringing together the best hardware, software and AI, to build wearables to help even more people around the world.”

Fitbit pioneered the wearables category by delivering innovative, affordable and engaging devices and services. Being “on Fitbit” is not just about the device – it is an immersive experience from the wrist to the app, designed to help users understand and change their behavior to improve their health. Because of this unique approach, Fitbit has sold more than 100 million devices and supports an engaged global community of millions of active users, utilizing data to deliver unique personalized guidance and coaching to its users. Fitbit will continue to remain platform-agnostic across both Android and iOS.

Consumer trust is paramount to Fitbit. Strong privacy and security guidelines have been part of Fitbit’s DNA since day one, and this will not change. Fitbit will continue to put users in control of their data and will remain transparent about the data it collects and why. The company never sells personal information, and Fitbit health and wellness data will not be used for Google ads.

The transaction is expected to close in 2020, subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by Fitbit’s stockholders and regulatory approvals.

Qatalyst Partners LLP acted as financial advisor to Fitbit, and Fenwick & West LLP acted as legal advisor.

About Fitbit, Inc. (NYSE: FIT)

Fitbit helps people lead healthier, more active lives by empowering them with data, inspiration and guidance to reach their goals. Fitbit designs products and experiences that track and provide motivation for everyday health and fitness. Fitbit’s diverse line of innovative and popular products include Fitbit Charge 3, Fitbit Inspire HR, Fitbit Inspire and Fitbit Ace 2 activity trackers, as well as the Fitbit Ionic and Fitbit Versa family of smartwatches, Fitbit Flyer wireless headphones, and Fitbit Aria family of smart scales. Fitbit products are carried in approximately 39,000 retail stores and in 100+ countries around the globe. Powered by one of the world’s largest databases of activity, exercise and sleep data and Fitbit’s leading health and fitness social network, the Fitbit platform delivers personalized experiences, insights and guidance through leading software and interactive tools, including the Fitbit and Fitbit Coach apps, and Fitbit OS for smartwatches. Fitbit’s paid subscription service, Fitbit Premium uses your unique data to deliver actionable guidance and coaching in the Fitbit app to help you reach your health and fitness goals. Fitbit Health Solutions develops health and wellness solutions designed to help increase engagement, improve health outcomes, and drive a positive return for employers, health plans and health systems.

Fitbit and the Fitbit logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Fitbit, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. Additional Fitbit trademarks can be found www.fitbit.com/legal/trademark-list. Third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and share your Fitbit experience.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

In connection with the proposed acquisition, Fitbit will file relevant materials with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including a preliminary and definitive proxy statement. Promptly after filing the definitive proxy statement, Fitbit will mail the definitive proxy statement and a proxy card to the stockholders of Fitbit. FITBIT’S STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) CAREFULLY WHEN IT BECOMES AVAILABLE BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING OR INVESTMENT DECISION WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION BECAUSE IT WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND THE PARTIES TO THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. Stockholders of Fitbit will be able to obtain a free copy of these documents, when they become available, at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov or free of charge at www.Fitbit.com.

Additionally, Fitbit will file other relevant materials in connection with the proposed acquisition of Fitbit by Google pursuant to the terms of an Agreement and Plan of Merger, by and among Fitbit, Google and Magnoliophyta Inc. (the “Merger Agreement”). Fitbit and its directors, executive officers and other members of its management and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of Fitbit stockholders in connection with the proposed acquisition. Stockholders of Fitbit may obtain more detailed information regarding the names, affiliations and interests of certain of Fitbit’s executive officers and directors in the solicitation by reading Fitbit’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, which was filed with the SEC on March 1, 2019 and the proxy statement for Fitbit’s 2019 annual meeting of stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 11, 2019. These documents are available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by going to Fitbit’s Investor Relations website at www.Fitbit.com. Information concerning the interests of Fitbit’s participants in the solicitation, which may, in some cases, be different than those of Fitbit’s stockholders generally, will be set forth in the definitive proxy statement relating to the proposed transaction when it becomes available.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that involve risks and uncertainties. In some cases, you can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of terms such as “expect,” “will,” “continue,” or similar expressions, and variations or negatives of these words, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to: any statements regarding the expected timing of the completion of the transaction; the ability of Google and Fitbit to complete the proposed transaction considering the various conditions to the transaction, some of which are outside the parties’ control, including those conditions related to regulatory approvals; the expected benefits and costs of the proposed transaction; any statements concerning the expected development or competitive performance relating to Fitbit’s products and services; any statements regarding Google’s future intention with Fitbit; any other statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. A number of important factors and uncertainties could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements, including without limitation: the failure to satisfy any of the conditions to the consummation of the proposed transaction, including the adoption of the Merger Agreement by Fitbit’s stockholders and the receipt of certain governmental and regulatory approvals; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the Merger Agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Fitbit related to the Merger Agreement or the proposed transaction; unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the proposed transaction; the occurrence of a Company Material Adverse Effect (as defined in the Merger Agreement); and other risks that are described in the reports of Fitbit filed the SEC, including but not limited to the risks described in Fitbit’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, and that are otherwise described or updated from time to time in other filings with the SEC. Fitbit assumes no obligation to update the information in this communication, except as otherwise required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements that speak only as of the date hereof.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20191101005318/en/

Fitbit
Investor Contact: Tom Hudson, (415) 604-4106 investor@fitbit.com
Media Contact: Jen Ralls, (415) 941-0037 PR@fitbit.com

Source: Fitbit, Inc.

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