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Like most technological devices, modern fitness trackers can be a source of unnecessary electromagnetic radiation thanks to the Bluetooth connectivity most of them need to function.
Don’t get me wrong:
I’m all about using data to optimize my actions…
But not at the expense of my health.
If you feel the same way, check out this list of the best fitness trackers without bluetooth.
With the help of these options, you can effectively track the exercise you’re getting and how it impacts your overall wellness – all without the risk.
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Let’s talk a bit about that risk…but feel free to just scroll down and check out the list.
No hard feelings 🙂
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Fitness Tracker Radiation
Most fitness trackers need Bluetooth technology and wifi connectivity to track data.
Both forms of tech utilize low-powered radiofrequency (RF) transmitters, which are responsible for emitting non-ionizing radiation.
It’s important to note that the radiation from Bluetooth is very similar to what’s emitted by a microwave.
This type of RF radiation is absorbed into our bodies, which over time, can lead to side effects like headaches, infertility, skin conditions, and more.
Unfortunately, we’re exposed to low-level radiation like this everywhere we turn.
But gadgets like fitness trackers concern me because of how close they are to our bodies – as in ‘direct contact’ close.
Users wear them for hours at a time while others wear them from sun up to sun down…
THAT is what concerns me.
It “breaks” 2 of the 3 laws of EMF protection – distance and duration.
I understand wanting to optimize your workout and wellness routine, but doesn’t it defeat the purpose if it’s simultaneously sabotaging your health?
Fortunately, there are alternatives out there, and that’s what I want to focus on for the rest of this article.
The goal is to find a fitness tracker that allows you to disable the Bluetooth feature, or better yet, one that doesn’t utilize that technology at all.
7 Fitness Trackers That Don’t Use Bluetooth (Or It Can At Least Be Disabled)
To help you find a better alternative, I’ve compiled a list of the top 7 fitness trackers that are much safer but no less efficient:
1. OZO Fitness SC2 Digital Pedometer
The first product on our list is the this Digital Pedometer by OZO, which is a perfect companion for achieving your daily steps.
With its 7-day memory log, you can keep track of your progress with regards to your distance, average speed, activity time, and the calories you burn.
Whether you’re taking a walk or breaking a sweat through a morning jog, this digital pedometer can keep you motivated with its easy-to-use program.
The best part is, the OZO Fitness SC2 doesn’t need Bluetooth to work!
Using this device comes with the convenience of being able to pause the sensor if you don’t want your current activity to be counted.
For example, when you’re riding the train or driving your car.
Plus, you won’t have trouble viewing the details because of its large display screen and big buttons.
This fitness tracker is also easy to tote around as you can clip it on your ankle or waist.
2. OZO Fitness CS1 Simple Step Tracker
Our next product is also from OZO Fitness. The CS1 Simple Step Tracker is an easy pedometer for walking built with a lanyard cord for convenience.
Because this device doesn’t require any setup or programming, it’s ready to use in less than 5 seconds.
It lets you accurately track your steps and performance on its large screen display.
This device is ideal for people of all ages because apart from the simple technology, CS1 is also a portable tracker.
Among its many features, the most notable one is that it doesn’t need Bluetooth technology to function. It doesn’t require any additional apps or computers.
I also like that it has an extended battery life so you won’t have to charge it constantly.
3. Garmin Vívosmart HR Activity Tracker
If you’re looking for a more stylish fitness tracker, then the Garmin Vivosmart HR Activity Tracker might be the option for you.
Apart from its sleek look, this tracker also displays steps taken, calories burned, distance covered, bike speed, heart rate, and sleep patterns.
It does have smartphone connectivity so you can control your music, camera, and social media notifications – which I don’t like.
However, it made it on my list because it gives you the option to disconnect and turn off the Bluetooth feature.
You won’t be able to download the activity on your phone while the Bluetooth is off, but at least you don’t have to worry about the health risks of radiation.
4. Samsung Gear Fit2 Pro
Not to be forgotten on our list is the Samsung Gear Fit2 Pro. This device is not like your ordinary tracker because apart from the usual recording of your stats, the Gear Fit2 Pro is ideal for swimming activities.
The tracker is actually built to be in pools, on the beach, or in the shower because it is water-resistant.
The device works great to track your fitness performance – from your sleep and workouts to heart rate and nutrition.
It comes with the ability to listen to music or track your location, but of course that requires Bluetooth and Wifi networks.
However, like others on this list, you can disable those features.
5. Mijiaowatch Fitness Tracker
If you’re looking for a tracker with multiple features and user-friendly programming, then check out this Mijiaowatch Fitness Tracker.
It’s not only a pedometer, but it also comes with a calorie-burning monitor, distance monitor, timer, time and date display, and an alarm.
It is highly-sensitive so that each step is accurately recorded for your convenience.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about getting it wet because this tracker is waterproof up to 50 meters.
A perfect device for kids, this tracker is shock-resistant made with high-quality materials.
Most of all, it’s safe for the user because it doesn’t need Bluetooth technology to work.
6. IGank Fitness Tracker
Another strong contender in our top list is the IGank Fitness Tracker, which is perfect for men, women, and kids.
This device prides itself on its soft, rubber strap that brings comfort while accurately tracking your activities.
The IGank fitness tracker can monitor your walking distance, your steps, and the calories you burn with its 3D motion sensor.
Since it’s equipped with long-life batteries, it is easy to use and maintain.
The best part is, it doesn’t require Bluetooth technology or any other kind of apps to function.
7. Feifuns Fitness Tracker
Last, but definitely not the least, is the fitness tracker from Feifuns.
This multi-functional sports device is customized for the user because it enables setting the height and weight.
Because of this feature, the device can track the step measurements more accurately.
More than that, these trackers come with a daily alarm, an LCD display, a stopwatch, an alarm, and stats for calories burned.
To ease your worries, this device isn’t only shockproof and waterproof, it also doesn’t need Bluetooth to function (aka you can disable it).
In that way, you can keep fit while saying goodbye to radiation hazards.
How to Disconnect from Bluetooth on a Fitness Tracker
Due to the potential health risk for radiation emitted by most fitness trackers (especially the FitBit), some devices have included an option to disconnect from Bluetooth.
And it’s easy to do. Just:
- Open the app of your fitness tracker
- Look for the “Device Settings” on the menu
- Click “Remove Device” to stop any activity from the tracker
- Go to your phone’s Bluetooth setting
- Choose “Unpair” or “Forget” for the device of your tracker
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you disable Bluetooth on a FitBit?
No, FitBit only syncs via Bluetooth, and it can’t be turned off on the device.
2. Can I use a fitness tracker without a smartphone?
Yes. As discussed above, many fitness trackers do not require any other devices to function effectively. We’ve included the best available in this list!
Side Note: I just want to quickly address the times we’re living in. Many people are feeling hopeless, depressed, confused, isolated…just overwhelmed. Can you relate? If you need a dose of hope right now, please click here to read my personal note to you.
Certified EMF Expert, Chief Editor & Researcher at Beat EMF. I’m in charge of testing all the products and sorting through the duds to deliver effective EMF solutions for your family. Learn more about me here.
Hi! Do you know if all feifun trackers are the same like the one you recommend above in your article, ornis that one the only one your recommend that doesn’t emit those frequencies? Thank you for your research.
Hi Jussie,
Feifuns has a smartwatch that they market as a fitness tracker, which does emit EMF. So there are some products in their line that I wouldn’t recommend. When you’re reading through the product description, look for “bluetooth” or “sync to your phone.” That’s what you don’t want. However, in many fitness trackers, the bluetooth can be turned off, so that’s not necessarily a deal breaker.
If you have one picked out that you really like but you’re unsure of its emissions, you could email me & I’ll take a look at it.
Hope that helps!
I found out today that you cannot disconnect garmin or samsung. So it allows you to but still emits emf. This came from the manufacturers. Seems you can do the disable actions but it doesmt mean it is disabled!
I have vivosmart4 does this still emit radiation with Bluetooth off ?
If the bluetooth is turned off, there should be no RF radiation at all. However, it’s always best to verify with a meter when it comes to something you’ll be wearing/using every day.
Hey on the Garmins, at least on the forerunner and fenix 6 models, when you put them into airplane mode, this disables bluetooth, wifi and ANT+. I’ve got a meter coming to check against my fenix 6 which I’ll be keen to see the results.
Is the new Garmin Vivosmart 4 safe?
I just looked it over online and found many features that require RF like its built-in GPS, etc. According to its manual, bluetooth CAN be turned off, but you’ll have to decide if it’s worth it at that point because that will eliminate many of its features.
Something I couldn’t find that you might want to look into is if the device will stick track and store data with bluetooth turned off. If it does, it might still be worth it. You can always take it off, sync your data, then put it back in airplane mode and back on your wrist.
I’m looking for an EMF free fitness and sleep tracker. Is there a device like that available?
Hi Sue,
The Oura ring is the best sleep tracker I know of. You can put it in airplane mode to eliminate RF. It can still track and store data without it. Then when you’re ready, take it off, disable airplane mode, and let it sync that data to your phone, then put it back on airplane mode.
For fitness trackers, any of the ones in this article will work – just be sure to disable the bluetooth feature if it has it.
Hi,
For the Igank fitness tracker, it states ”Long Battery Life:Fitness watch with high-quality polymer lithium battery.It last up to 15 days for normal use.”
Is it rechargeable? Thank you.
Hi Michelle,
No, the Igank fitness tracker is not rechargeable. You would need to replace the battery when it dies. I think it highlights the battery life because 15 days straight would be 360 hours. And since most people don’t wear their trackers 24/7, that would last quite a long time.
The mijiaowatch looks great for me, but will it track steps in a treadmill? Also, are there other places to get it besides Amazon, which isn’t shipping unnecessary stuff right now? Thx!
Hi Anny,
The mijiaowatch is pretty sensitive, so it should pick up steps on a treadmill. Just make sure wherever you buy from has a good return policy, so if it doesn’t, you can get your money back.
Check ebay. You might be able to find it there.
Does the Apple Watch still work fully if Bluetooth is disconnected? As it has wifi or does it need the Bluetooth on to fully work?
Same question for the fitbit Charge 3&4. Thank you.
Hi There, I am interested in the feifuns Smart Watch. I know you mentioned the Bluetooth in the device can be turn off/on. Do you know what levels of radiation emit when it is off?. I found a number of videos in Youtube in which it is measured the emf level for Fitbit but I can’t find anything information about the feifuns Smart Watch. I am nervous to make a purchase.
Hi Nina,
The Feifuns smart watch is different from the Feifuns fitness tracker. A smart watch has a lot more WiFi capabilities, which means higher RF exposure. However, if you are able to turn it (and keep it) on airplane mode, the EMF levels would be near zero. But if you only use it on airplane mode, you may as well not even get a smart watch and just stick to a basic pedometer.
Hello
I purchased a feifun fitness tracker after visiting your page.
I have not paired it to my device or to the app.I was wondering how do I know whether or not the bluetooth on the feifun tracker is on or off.
Hi Danel,
The device is going to automatically have bluetooth enabled. I’m not sure how to access the bluetooth setting on that brand, but it should be in your product manual/user guide.
Hi, I bought Fitpolo fitness tracker/smart watch. Since it had to be paired with a phone to set a clock and I downloaded an app and connected the watch to my phone. I wanted to turn off the bluetooth after that since I didnt want any radiation but there was no menu on the watch to turn off the bluetooth. So I simply unpaired the watch from my phone thru the app on my phone and deleted the app as well hoping the watch won’t emit radiation then. But I’m wondering if the fitness tracker would still emit radiation anyway. How do you think?
If it’s not turned off on the device itself (in this case the Fitpolo fitness tracker), then yes, more than likely it is still searching for nearby devices to connect to. I would email the manufacturer and ask how to disable bluetooth on the device itself.
On the devices you’ve named here that can have Bluetooth turned off, does that mean it tracks on the device and you can choose to sync with your device later when it is not directly in your body. I gave up my smartwatch a couple of years ago when my pebble finally died but I do like the idea of a sleep and step tracker. Does Aura ring only track slee
Hi Jen,
Yes, that’s exactly how it works – “it tracks on the device and you can choose to sync with your device later when it is not directly on your body.” Although, I will say I haven’t read the owner’s manual for every fitness tracker out there, so I would still shoot an email to the manufacturer to verify.
Yes, the Oura ring is intended for just sleep and “restful times of the day” as they put it.
I’m looking for a no radiation fitness tracker for my son. He wants one for fun to track his steps. Any suggestions of safe fitness trackers for kids?
Hi Rachel,
I’d just get a pedometer like this one (cheap and comes in many colors). They don’t use bluetooth or hook up to a phone, but they still look “cool” 🙂
Hi Jordan, I was wondering whether the Apple Watch, series 3 in particular, can have the Bluetooth shut off and still function as a fitness tracker, closing the rings, etc.?
Hi Gretchen,
I’d send a message to Apple through their chat box, asking about that particular model just to be sure.
Hi, just wondering if you ever got an email in response. Thank you
Hi Jordan!
I just want to clarify some information for the Garmin vivosmart HR Activity Tracker.
If I have the Bluetooth turned off, will it still track my distance, calories and heart rate? And then if I wish to sync it to my computer I simply turn the Bluetooth on and the information will be there?
Hi Jackie,
I believe so but I could be wrong. I’d call or email the manufacturer and ask them directly.
Do all Samsung fitness bands allow me to disable bluetooth Or just samsung Gear fit 2 pro. How about Samsung Galaxy fit E?
I’m not familiar with all the different models. I recommending 1 of 2 things:
1. Email the company and ask about that specific model
2. Do a search engine search for the model name along with the words “user manual”, then do a ctrl+F search function for the word “disable” and see what you can find.
Hope that helps!
If you are concerned about staying on the path to wellness, consider using radiation-free activity trackers instead. A digital pedometer is a great EMF-free alternative. That way, you can monitor your fitness progress without running the risk of developing cancer in the long run. Here s my favorite from Amazon. It s inexpensive and doesn t have Bluetooth technology. In the modern world, it is impossible to escape radiation. You just need to figure out reliable ways to minimize exposure and ditch EMF emitting devices for safer and healthier alternatives. Fitbits happen to fall into this category of gadgets.
I don’t see your favorite that you referenced.
Are there any watch pedometers that do not use Bluetooth and are not recharged by usb? It needs to be a battery that is replaceable.
Try this one. No bluetooth and uses a battery.
Hello, thank you for this article. I have a question regarding the apple watch series 4 emf emission. I’ve had the watch since Nov-2018, and earlier this year right around the time I noticed 5G started showing up on my phone, I started to notice I was reacting to when I would wear my Apple Watch. I would get a shooting pain in my hand and wrist. I’ve always used it in airplane mode only. Now, any time I put it on, even in airplane and now with bluetooth turned off, after a short period of time, I still feel a pain in the arm that I wear it on. Is it possible that the Apple Watch is still emitting EMFs even in airplane mode and with bluetooth and cellular turned off?
Hi Cassandra,
That’s a tough one. I would say “no, it doesn’t still emit EMF,” but honestly, Apple has so many issues with their SAR & RF levels being higher than other products, that I can’t really give a definitive answer.
Also, any time Apple updates its software, it’s possible for certain settings to be reset. I had this happen on my laptop once when my airplane mode was disabled after an update, and I didn’t realize it until I started having my ‘EMF’ headaches. Are you certain Airplane Mode is still “on” since the switch to 5G?
Hi
While batteries are not rf radiation some folks are sensitive. I believe that batteries would be a dc current. You have several meridians going down the arm and EMF radiation comes in many frequencies. If you hit an over load of them you may start becoming more sensitive than before. The battery may (or may not) be bothersome to some people. Just a consideration.
Excellent point, Nancy. Thanks!
Hello Jordan:
Do you know of any devices that the Bluetooth can be turned off and are also compatible with iPads?
Hi Jordan
I just want a safe device to measure steps/activity and calories burned. What can you recommend on a budget up to £60??
Thank you
Looking for a non Bluetooth tracker (do not want one that can be disabled as I don’t own any electronics). Do they have any that would have a heart rate feature? It’s for my elderly mom.
Hi! I am trying to find an old school chest strap heart rate monitor, but they all seem to be connected to something. Any ideas on ones that still exist that are not bluetooth?
Hi Jen,
Unfortunately, I don’t know of any chest straps that don’t have bluetooth these days 🙁
Hi Jordan!
Thank you so, so much for this article.
I have been wanting to use a fitness tracker for activity and sleep, and after contacting Fitbit to inquire, I was given a model option that would be okay for me. Cut to a month later when I opened it up, and what do you know….Bluetooth!
I have another question, and didn’t know where to ask it…
I am currently looking to purchase an Infrared Sauna for my home.
Because of the pandemic, I have been unable to go for my regular Infrared wraps.
Have you ever tested Infrared saunas? I will need to order one on faith if I don’t have some evidence or testimonial.
P.S. I am in Canada.
Hi Jennifer,
I have a sauna in my home as it was a must for my Lyme treatment. I personally purchased a low EMF one (because saunas are a source). I got mine from JNH lifestyles, and the levels are much lower than traditional saunas. Even if you absolutely couldn’t get your hands on a low EMF model, I feel the benefits of a sauna outweigh the cons.
Hi Jordan,
Thanks for this helpful information. I was interested in a device called the Vivofit 4. It has no wifi capabilities, but it also doesnt have the option to disable bluetooth on the device itself.
Is it not sufficient to disable bluetooth on my iphone? (I always have it off anyway)
Thanks
No, unfortunately it’s not sufficient. Bluetooth needs to be disabled on the device itself.
Hi, did you know that Garmin owns ANT/ANT+ and uses this technology in its devices including the Vivosmart line? They let you switch off the rival technology (Bluetooth), but there’s no option to turn off their own technology (ANT/ANT+). There isn’t much info available on ANT so I’m unsure of its safety. Do you know anything about it?
Hi Natasha,
No, I hadn’t heard of that. That’s very interesting though, I’ll look into it.
Hi,
How do I turn off Bluetooth for the Feifuns Smart Watch?
Hi Jordan,
Do you know any device for heart rate, calories, and maybe time spent in zone (not a must) that can be set up without a smartphone not just using without it? I do not have a smartphone. I’m not interested in all the fancy stuffs, like activity selection, distance, etc. No any information whatsoever regarding this with product descriptions throughout the whole net. I used to have a Polar, with a flat battery working for a year, but they don’t produce it anymore. Everything seems to set for smartphones nowadays. 🙁
Thank you,
Puncs
Would something like this work? It’s one I’ve recommended in the past. It says it’s out of stock now, but I’m sure it’ll be back.
Hi Jordan,
Great article! I would really appreciate if you could clarify this for me please; if I am wearing a fitness tracker with bluetooth capabilities and I toggle off bluetooth from the device itself, it will emit absolutely no EMFs correct? Or is the radiation just lowered to really small amounts?
Thank you in advance!
If you can disable bluetooth on the fitness tracker itself, it should emit absolutely no RF/EMF. That said, it’s always best to verify with a meter.
What I don’t understand if Bluetooth is turned of and my heart rate is still being recorded on the watch isn’t that bad how is my heart rate being recorded on my arm thru the watch all the time?
Hi Jordan,
I’ve just bought a Garmin Fenix 6 which is one of their smart watches, not fitness trackers. I got this because of the suit of functions related to different exercises.
I have put it in airplane mode which Garmin says disables Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and ANT+.
Do the sensors or GPS emit any or unsafe levels of EMF?
I have ordered a TriField EMF Meter Model TF2 which should be here this week so I can test this. Can you give me some advise as what levels you would deem as safe?
Noting that I only really want to wear this while exercising.
Thanks 🙂
Hi, my 11 year old son wants to get the Amazfit Bip U Pro smart watch. Will I be able to disable bluetooth on that one?
Thank you!
Hello, I am hoping you can help me determine if I can disable the Bluetooth on this Feifuns device:
Fitness Tracker, Activity Fitness… https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BDFKD1M8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Thanks!
Hi Jordan –
I am confused regarding the fitbit that I just got and your article. On the app on my phone bluetooth (and on the fitbit-not activated when I set up the app) is turned off – but on the fitbit the green lights go on and off and I assume that is what tracks your steps, oxygen level and sleep. So even though the bluetooth is turned off is the fitbit still emitting RF radiation into my body? hope this makes sense. thank you
Hello.
Do you have any updates on devices since 2019? Many of your selections were unavailable. I am sensitive to the EMF and have had to have shots in my wrist for the effects of a Fitbit. Thank you
Great post! I really appreciate the focus on fitness trackers without Bluetooth, especially for those of us who are looking to minimize EMF exposure. It’s nice to see options that still offer reliable features. I’ll definitely consider some of these models for my workouts!