Gadget review: Motorola MotoActv

IF you’re looking to trim some inches off your waist this month, the gadget world may just have the answer.

I’m out in Vegas this week at the Consumer Electronics Show, which showcases the world’s largest collection of new-fangled electronic gizmos, overenthusiastic sales reps and dodgy Chinese copies.

In the first category is the MotoActv which is a combined GPS fitness tracker and a smart music player in one. Connected fitness gadgets are a big trend at this year’s show; they record your body stats automatically so you can monitor your progress online.

The MotoActv looks a bit like a chunky watch. It can be detached and strapped to your arm, clipped to your shirt or waist or even mounted on the handlebars of your bike.

As a GPS tracker, it keeps count of your pace, distance and calories burnt as well as pinpointing your progress on Google Maps. There’s also an optional heart rate monitor accessory. All that’s pretty standard for devices of this type. Where the magic happens is with the smart music player. With your songs loaded, the MotoActv keeps track of which songs inspire better performances. When I started to flag when jogging, the rousing beat of Survivor’s Eye of the Tiger was dynamically selected to revive my form.

On top of this, the MotoActv syncs wirelessly via Bluetooth with your phone, displaying text messages and allowing you to take incoming calls without having to dip into your pocket.

There’s a bit of a wait for this one as it’s not released in the UK until December. At just under £250, the MotoActv is a pricey, yet effective way of having your own portable personal trainer.

• £249, from www.sweatshop.co.uk For more information see https://motoactv.com