Since their inception and integration in mobile phone technology, apps have become portable, utilitarian Swiss army knives—users can get instant calculations, maps and locations, consumer reports and reviews, audio recording, games, fitness programs, and much more all at their fingertips. Wearable technology expands on the theory of portable technologies and utilizes clothing and accessories that incorporate practical functions. This technology has been around for a long time, from watch calculators, to blue-tooth technologies.

With many people focusing on their health through New Year’s resolutions, wearable technologies offer fitness-inspired-solutions to helping consumers keep the weight off. According to an article in The Telegraph, Shane Richmond explains that “More of us are seeing the potential of these tools. Juniper Research (News - Alert) says wearable devices, including fitness trackers and smart glasses that relay information from the internet, have grown in popularity over the last two years. The company estimates the market will be worth £900 million by 2014.”

Applications help inspire users to accomplish their fitness goals. Lift, one of several free iPhone (News - Alert) apps, helps users keep track of their goals on a daily basis. Like most social apps, Lift gives users the chance to encourage each other. In the medical field, “the Holy Grail” app helps spot major diseases based on user information.

Other wearable technologies on the market include wrist-worn Nike’s Fuelband, which measures how many steps users taken during the day through ‘Nike Fuel’ points. Fitbit’s One or Jawbone’s Up wristbands similarly monitor sleep and fitness goals. The designs of the units are sleek and fashionable, so the act of wearing them becomes an accessory, not a chore.

People tend to pay more attention to their activities if they have a way of measuring themselves. Combining apps with wearable sensors and the modification of sports equipment are realities that will only get more advanced over time.