From Passion to Precision: How Wearables and Smart Rings Shaped Swagat's Fitness Journey

From chasing trends to chasing personal bests, this is the story of how fitness evolved from a hobby into a data-driven lifestyle. Discover how smart wearables—especially smart rings—reshaped one runner’s journey toward peak performance, better recovery, and a more balanced life.

• Can you take us back to when you first started running or getting involved physically when it comes to your health?What sparked your initial interest, and how did it evolve into something more serious?

My journey into health and fitness began in 2007 when I joined the local gym with the goal of losing weight and getting fitter (thanks to more actors in movies flaunting their 6-pack abs back then!). Initially, it was just following a trend, which soon turned into a consistent routine driven by the desire to improve my physical health. As I started working out regularly, I discovered a newfound passion for fitness.

The gym became a place where I could challenge myself and see tangible progress. I began to enjoy the process of setting and achieving fitness goals, whether it was lifting heavier weights, running longer distances, tracking my nutrition, or simply feeling more energetic and confident in my daily life.

Over time, what began as a tool became an integral aspect of my lifestyle. I explored different types of workouts, from strength training to cardio, HIIT classes (especially during the Covid pandemic), and eventually started road and trail running. This journey transformed my body and had a profound impact on my mental well-being, providing a healthy outlet for stress and a sense of accomplishment.

• Was there a specific moment when you realized health wasn’t just a hobby anymore but something you wanted to deeply integrate into your life?

There was a specific moment during the Covid pandemic when I realized that health wasn't just a hobby but something I wanted to deeply integrate into my life. Working from home for long hours had taken a toll on my physical and mental well-being as gyms were shut down for months back then. I found myself feeling more stressed and less active than ever before.

One evening, after a particularly grueling week of back-to-back virtual meetings, I decided to go for a run to clear my mind. As I ran through the quiet streets in Aberdeen (Scotland), I felt the stress and tension melt away. By the time I finished, I felt rejuvenated and more focused. It was then that I understood the profound connection between my physical health and mental well-being.

This realization made me commit to making health a central part of my life. I started prioritizing and ring-fencing my workout time from work and home, paying more attention to my diet, and ensuring I got enough rest. Health became more than just a way to stay fit; it became a foundation for a balanced and fulfilling life, especially during such challenging times.

• What were some of the biggest struggles you faced in your early days of maintaining this, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges was finding the time and motivation to work out consistently. Balancing work, personal life, and fitness was tough, especially when I was already feeling exhausted from long hours at the office.

Another struggle was dealing with the initial soreness and fatigue that came with starting a new workout regimen. There were days when I felt like giving up because my body was aching, and I didn't see immediate results.

To overcome these challenges, I made a few key changes. First, I started scheduling my workouts like appointments, ensuring I had dedicated time for exercise each day. This helped me stay consistent and made fitness a non-negotiable part of my routine.

I also learned to listen to my body and pace myself. Instead of pushing too hard too soon, I gradually increased the intensity of my workouts. This helped reduce soreness and made the process more enjoyable.

Additionally, I found motivation by setting small, achievable goals and celebrating each milestone. Whether it was running an extra kilometer, losing half a kilo at a time, or lifting slightly heavier weights, these accomplishments kept me motivated and focused on my progress.

• How has your approach to training changed over time, especially as you started focusing more on data-driven performance?

Initially, my workouts were more about general fitness and feeling good. I didn't pay much attention to specific metrics or data. However, as I became more serious about my fitness goals, I began to incorporate data into my training. I started using fitness trackers and apps to monitor my progress, which allowed me to track various metrics such as heart rate, calories burned, distance covered, and more.

One personal experience that stands out is when I started training for running events. Using a Garmin sports watch, I could monitor my pace and heart rate during each run and get some detailed feedback post-run, including my training load, running power, cadence, readiness, and performance condition. I noticed that on days when I pushed myself harder when my training readiness and heart rate variability were low from the previous day’s workout, I felt more fatigued during my runs, struggled to maintain my target average pace, which at times resulted in me losing my running form, and made me prone to injuries. By adjusting my training schedule and intensity based on this data, I was able to improve my endurance, run more efficiently, and minimize injuries.

I also started setting more precise goals based on the data, such as aiming to run a certain distance within a specific time frame or maintaining a target heart rate during workouts.

Focusing on data-driven performance has transformed my training from a casual activity into a more strategic and goal-oriented process. It has allowed me to optimize my workouts, track my progress more accurately, and continuously improve my fitness levels.

• From races to personal milestones, what has been your most memorable run so far?

My most memorable run so far has to be the last long training session leading up to my first half marathon on the Monsal Trail in England. My journey up to this point was filled with a lot of early morning trail runs, strength conditioning at the gym, recovery from an injury, occasional frustrations with balancing life and training, and discovering the strengths and, more importantly, the weaknesses of my running biomechanics. It was a crisp Saturday morning in the Peak District, and I had planned to run 18 km as my final big push before the race. This run was crucial, as it would be the longest distance I had ever attempted in my training.

As I set out, I felt a mix of anticipation and determination. The first few kilometers went smoothly, and I found my rhythm. However, around the 12 km mark, fatigue started to set in. My legs felt heavy, and the thought of running six more kilometers seemed daunting.

I remembered all the hard work and preparation I had put in over the past months—focusing on my breathing, keeping a steady pace to conserve resources, and pushing through the fatigue, whilst maintaining my fueling plan. The last two kilometers were particularly challenging, but I kept reminding myself of the goal and the progress I had made (thanks to Eye of the Tiger thumping in my headphones!).

When I finally completed the 18 kilometers, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. It wasn't just about the distance covered but the mental and physical resilience it took to get there. This run gave me the confidence and belief that I could tackle the half marathon.

That final training session and the subsequent half marathon on the Monsal Trail remain my most memorable runs, not just because of the distance covered, but because of the personal growth and the resilience they represented.

• When did you first start using fitness wearables, and what made you interested in tracking your performance?

I started using fitness wearables in 2017 when I got my first Fitbit. At the time, I was looking for ways to enhance my training and track my progress more accurately. The idea of having real-time data about my workouts and daily activity intrigued me.

With the Fitbit, I could monitor various metrics such as steps taken, heart rate, calories burned, and sleep patterns. This data provided valuable insights into my fitness levels and helped me make informed decisions about my training.

One of the most exciting aspects was seeing the tangible progress over time. Whether it was increasing my daily step count or improving my heart rate during runs, the wearable gave me a sense of achievement and motivation to keep pushing my limits.

Using a fitness tracker also introduced me to the concept of setting specific, measurable goals. I started aiming for certain step counts, tracking my running pace, and even monitoring my sleep quality to ensure I was getting enough rest.

• Which piece of wearable technology has made the biggest impact on your fitness journey, and why?

The piece of wearable technology that has made the biggest impact on my fitness journey is my Garmin sports watch. After using a Fitbit for several years, I decided to move to a Garmin, and it introduced me to a whole new world of recovery and performance metrics that my previous tracker couldn't provide.

On top of all the advanced running dynamics and performance metrics that smart watches provide, one of the most significant features for me was the recovery metrics. It provided data on my recovery time after workouts, heart rate variability, resting heart rate, a sleep coach, training readiness, and body battery, all of which helped me avoid overtraining and ensure I was giving my body enough time to rest and rebuild. This was a game-changer, as it allowed me to train smarter and reduce the risk of injury.

• With so much data available today, what are the top three metrics you rely on the most to track and optimize your performance?

The top three metrics I rely on the most to track and optimize my performance are:

1. Heart Rate Variability: HRV helps me understand how well my body is recovering and how ready I am for my next workout. It gives me a sense of how my body is handling stress and recovery so I can adjust my training if needed.
2. Resting Heart Rate: This is a key sign of my overall health. By keeping an eye on my resting heart rate, I can spot any changes that might indicate I'm overtraining or getting sick. Seeing a downward trend or a steady resting heart rate over the last few weeks usually means I'm getting fitter or balancing things well.
3. Sleep Quality: Good sleep is crucial for my recovery and overall performance. I use my wearable to track not just how long I sleep but also the quality of my sleep. By making sure I get good rest, I feel confident in taking on more intense activities early in the morning, knowing that I can still get through the rest of the day without feeling fatigued.

These metrics help me keep track of my fitness and recovery, allowing me to make smart decisions about my training.

• Many athletes emphasize listening to their bodies over technology. How do you find a balance between trusting data and trusting how you feel?

Finding a balance between trusting data and listening to my body has been an important part of my fitness journey. I use data from my wearables to guide my training and track progress, but I also pay close attention to how I feel. For example, if I see my wearable suggesting I should push harder, like this morning showing me a high “training readiness” score of 87, but I'm feeling unusually tired or sore given yesterday’s intense leg strength training session, I prioritize an easy day and delay my long run to tomorrow morning. For me, it’s about combining the objective information from the data with the subjective experience of my body's signals.

One approach that works for me is using data as a starting point and then adjusting based on my body's feedback. If my heart rate or recovery metrics indicate I'm ready for a tough workout, I go for it. But if I feel off, I listen to my body and take it easy, even if the data suggests otherwise.

As much as I love and use technology that enhances my training, I feel it's essential to stay in tune with my body's needs and signals. This combination helps me train smarter, avoid injuries, and maintain a healthy relationship with fitness.

• Many runners have traditionally relied on smartwatches, but we’re now seeing a shift toward smaller, more discreet wearables like smart rings. What’s your take on this trend?

The shift towards discreet wearables like smart rings is an exciting trend. Personally, having used and tested all sorts of running sports and smartwatches with numerous buttons, dials, and ever-increasing display sizes, I find smart rings to be incredibly convenient and effective for fitness and recovery tracking, given their compact design allows for continuous monitoring without the bulk and distraction of a smartwatch.

I dipped my toes into the world of smart rings last year, and one of the main advantages for me has been their subtlety. They can be worn comfortably all day, even while sleeping, without feeling intrusive. This makes them ideal for tracking important metrics like heart rate, sleep quality, and activity levels. For runners like me, this means less distraction and more focus on the run itself.

While smartwatches and sports watches offer more features and customization options, the simplicity and comfort of smart rings make them a fantastic choice for those who prefer a minimalist approach to fitness tracking. Both have their unique benefits, but for me, the smart ring has been a game-changer in maintaining a seamless and effective fitness routine.

• What inspired you to start a YouTube channel about fitness wearables? Was it a natural extension of your passion, or did something push you toward content creation?

Starting a YouTube channel about wearable technology was a natural extension of my passion for health and technology, combined with my love for video production. I had always enjoyed making travel vlogs as a hobby, capturing my adventures and sharing them with friends and family. The process of filming, editing, and storytelling was something I found incredibly rewarding.

During the Covid pandemic, when travel was limited, I started thinking about how I could combine my passion for fitness and wearable tech with my interest in video production. I had accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience with various fitness trackers and wearables, and I realized there was a broader audience who could benefit from this information.

The idea of creating content came naturally. I wanted to find a way to connect with others and share my experiences in a meaningful way. The thought of helping people make informed decisions about their fitness wearables and improving their health was incredibly motivating.

I also noticed a gap in the online content available. While there were plenty of reviews and unboxings, there was a lack of in-depth, data-driven practical advice on what these devices offered to users. This inspired me to create content that not only reviewed the latest wearables but also dived deep into the data that came out of these devices, how they compare against industry benchmarks, and recommended the right wearable tech for specific usage scenarios.

Starting The Wearableist channel has been a rewarding experience. It has allowed me to combine my love for video production with my passion for fitness and technology. Seeing the positive impact my content has on others' fitness journeys, whether someone training for a marathon decides to buy a specific sports watch after watching my video or someone comments on how they’ve improved their sleep with my smart ring recommendation, is what keeps me motivated and excited about creating more.

• How has your audience influenced your approach to reviewing fitness technology? Do their feedback and questions shape the content you create?

When I first started my YouTube channel, I had a general idea of what I wanted to share, but it was the interaction with my viewers that truly guided my direction.

One of the most impactful aspects has been the questions and comments from my audience. They often ask about specific features, comparisons between different devices, and practical tips for using wearables effectively. This has helped me understand what information is most valuable to them and tailor my reviews to address their needs.

For example, after receiving multiple questions about the accuracy of optical heart rate sensors and GPS tracking on sports watches and smartwatches, I decided to create two detailed videos comparing different sports and smartwatch models, diving deep into their designs, specifications, advanced performance, and recovery metrics, comparing their heart rate tracking accuracies against an ECG chest strap, GPS accuracies in various outdoor terrains, and then recommending the best wearable tech for people with different priorities.

My audience's feedback has also encouraged me to dive deeper into certain topics and explore new areas of fitness technology. Their enthusiasm and curiosity inspire me to continuously learn and provide more comprehensive and insightful content. I’m also seeing viewers interacting with each other like a small community on the channel, which is amazing! This dynamic has been incredibly rewarding and motivates me to keep improving and expanding my content.

• When testing out new fitness tech, what are some of the biggest challenges you face in delivering an honest, insightful review?

One of the biggest challenges is making sure the data from new fitness tech is accurate and reliable. Fitness wearables can be hit or miss, and I often find myself testing them in different conditions to see how they perform. This means wearing them during runs, workouts, and even while sleeping to get a full picture. Sometimes I end up spending hours extracting and analyzing data like heart rate charts, sleep metrics, battery drain profiles, etc. It's a bit like being a detective, piecing together clues to understand how well the device works.

Evaluating the overall user experience is another hurdle. It's not just about the data; it's also about how easy and comfortable the device is to use. I remember trying out a new smartwatch that had amazing features but was so bulky it felt like wearing a brick on my wrist! Balancing the tech with comfort and usability is key, and I try to think about how different users might feel about it.

Staying objective can also be tough, especially when I have personal preferences. I might love a particular brand or product, but I have to set that aside and focus on the facts. It's like being a referee in a game—fair and unbiased. I make sure to highlight both the strengths and weaknesses of the device so viewers get a balanced view.

The fitness and wearable tech world moves fast, and keeping up with the latest technology can feel like a race. There's always something new and exciting coming out, and it takes a lot of effort to stay informed.

Despite these challenges, I love the process of testing and reviewing fitness tech. It's rewarding to share my findings and help others make informed decisions. Plus, it's always exciting to discover new gadgets that can enhance our fitness journeys!

• Based on your experience and the trends you’re seeing, where do you think the world of fitness wearables is heading in the next five years?

I think the world of fitness wearables is set to undergo significant advancements in the next five years. One major trend is the integration of AI and machine learning, which will enable wearables to provide more personalized health insights and recommendations. This includes AI-powered coaching, predictive analytics for injury prevention, and more accurate health monitoring.

Non-invasive glucose monitoring, continuous blood pressure tracking, and enhanced sleep and stress analysis are also likely to be enhanced over the years.

The ecosystem of wearables will likely become more interconnected, allowing users to sync data across multiple devices and apps for a holistic view of their health. Having a wearable device track your daily metrics, calorie expense, manage your nutrition, and recommend the right meals and recipes (with a shopping list for your nearest grocery store) based on all of the data gathered would be a game-changer!

Mental health will be a key focus, with wearables incorporating features for stress management, mindfulness exercises, and mood tracking. I also feel that user experience will be more intuitive and engaging, with natural language interactions and proactive health suggestions based on real-time data.

I’m quite excited to see how the future of fitness wearables will shape up over the next few years, with technology driving more personalized, comprehensive, and user-friendly health solutions.

• Given your expertise in wearable technology, what excites you most about the evolution of smart rings like the Luna Smart Ring? How do you see them fitting into the future of fitness tracking?

Smart rings like the Luna Ring will play a crucial role by offering a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional wrist-based wearables. Having personally used it every day for the last couple of months, the Luna Ring’s ability to track a wide range of biometric signals, including sleep stages, heart rate variability, and body temperature, makes it a valuable tool for comprehensive health monitoring. Additionally, the focus on mental health features, such as stress management and mindfulness exercises from smart rings, aligns them with the growing awareness of the importance of mental well-being in overall health.

Smart rings like Luna are also becoming more integrated with AI-powered coaching and health insights, providing personalized recommendations based on real-time data. This has significantly enhanced my own user experience when using wearables like the Luna Ring by offering tailored advice for fitness and wellness goals. The combination of their discrete designs, accurate sensors, and AI integration will likely make smart rings an essential part of every athlete’s journey.

I feel that the evolution of smart rings like Luna is set to revolutionize fitness tracking by providing more accurate, continuous, and personalized health insights using AI tech in a convenient form factor compared to a traditional smartwatch or fitness tracker. It's a significant step towards more holistic and user-friendly health monitoring solutions!