TL;DR
Many people set New Year’s resolutions such as exercising more, eating healthier, saving money, or reading more. The article highlights accessories and apps — from fitness trackers and C25K to MyFitnessPal, YNAB, roundup savers, Forest, Gemini and e-readers — that can make those goals easier to pursue, while noting success still depends on user commitment.
What happened
New Year’s resolutions remain a widespread ritual, with common goals including improved fitness, better eating habits, increased savings and more time with family. The piece surveys gadgets and software that can support those aims rather than guarantee them. For physical activity, it recommends using a capable fitness tracker or a smartwatch; the Fitbit Charge 6 is singled out as an all-round option, while models such as the Coros Pace 3, Polar Pacer Pro and Garmin Venu 3 are suggested for sport-specific needs. For new runners, the C25K app is recommended to build endurance gradually. To monitor diet and calories, MyFitnessPal is the primary pick, with barcode scanning and syncable fitness links. Financial goals can be aided by budgeting tools like YNAB and roundup savings apps such as Acorns, Oportun or Qapital. The article also suggests using phone-habit tools like Forest and planning help from AI chatbots (Gemini) to reclaim family time, and recommends e-readers — notably Kobo — to increase reading opportunities.
Why it matters
- Resolutions are common but often fail; tools can reduce friction and provide measurable feedback.
- Trackers and apps translate habits into data, making progress easier to monitor and adjust.
- Automated features (roundups, syncs, barcode scanning) lower the effort needed to stick with new behaviours.
- Device choices can be tailored to the activity — generalist smartwatches may replace single-purpose trackers.
Key facts
- Exercising more is the most popular resolution and is often paired with goals to improve physical health.
- Fitbit Charge 6 is recommended as a strong all-round fitness tracker.
- Runners may prefer Coros Pace 3 or Polar Pacer Pro; swimmers might favour Garmin Venu 3.
- Smartwatches can function as capable fitness trackers and may remove the need to buy a separate device.
- C25K is recommended as an effective app for taking up running with a progressive schedule.
- MyFitnessPal is highlighted for meal and calorie tracking, including barcode scanning and the ability to add custom foods.
- YNAB (You Need A Budget) uses an envelope-style budgeting method and requires setup and a subscription.
- Roundup-style savings apps like Acorns, Oportun, and Qapital move spare change into savings automatically.
- Forest is suggested to discourage phone use during family time; AI chatbots such as Gemini can assist with planning outings.
- E-readers are recommended to increase reading opportunities; the author expresses a preference for Kobo devices, while noting most major brands function similarly.
What to watch next
- Success still depends on user commitment and consistent use of the chosen tools.
- YNAB requires a monthly subscription and some initial setup, which can be a barrier for some users.
- If you already own a capable smartwatch, buying a separate fitness tracker may offer limited additional benefit.
Quick glossary
- Fitness tracker: A wearable device that records physical activity, heart rate and other health-related metrics to help monitor workouts and daily movement.
- Smartwatch: A multipurpose wrist-worn device that can run apps, show notifications and often include health and fitness tracking features.
- Calorie counting: The practice of tracking the energy content of foods consumed to manage weight or nutritional intake.
- Roundup savings app: A financial tool that rounds purchases up to the nearest whole amount and saves or invests the spare change automatically.
- E-reader: A portable electronic device designed primarily for reading digital books, often optimized with glare-free displays and long battery life.
Reader FAQ
Which fitness tracker should I buy?
The article names the Fitbit Charge 6 as a strong all-rounder but suggests choosing a device tailored to your preferred activity (for example, Coros Pace 3 or Polar Pacer Pro for running, Garmin Venu 3 for swimming).
Is MyFitnessPal a good option for eating healthier?
MyFitnessPal is recommended for tracking meals and calories, with features like barcode scanning and the ability to link fitness apps; the author advises trying calorie tracking for a short period to understand typical intake.
Will budgeting apps help me save more?
YNAB is cited as an effective envelope-style budgeting system but requires setup and a subscription; roundup apps (Acorns, Oportun, Qapital) can automate small savings, though they won’t replace comprehensive financial planning.
Can tech help me spend less time on my phone with family?
Yes — simple habits like leaving your phone in a fixed place are recommended along with apps like Forest to discourage checking; AI tools such as Gemini can also help plan family activities.
Unlock the secret to achieving your New Year's Resolutions with these proven accessories and apps Credit: JEShoots / Pexels By Mark Jansen Published 4 minutes ago Mark has almost a decade…
Sources
- Unlock the secret to achieving your New Year's Resolutions with these proven accessories and apps
- 8 Ways Apps Can Help Keep Your New Year's Resolutions
- 12 must-have apps to crush your New Year's resolutions
- 45 tech and fitness accessories to hit your 2026 goals
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