Yes, these are 2 different things! The Buzz these days is about a calorie management system called the Bodybugg. Here's what their website says about it:
"The Bodybugg system uses a patented process to measure calorie burn. The process is based on:
Motion: The Armband contains an accelerometer that measures motion from multiple perspectives.
Steps: The accelerometer counts steps by measuring the distinct patterns created by running or walking.
Galvanic skin response: When you sweat, your skin becomes more electrically conductive. This measurement helps the device understand how active you are.
Skin temperature: There’s an electronic thermometer inside your armband that monitors how hot you are.
Heat flux: When you move, your muscles produce heat. Your armband measures the heat that’s flowing from your body into the environment."
You can also upload the data from your Armband, to your computer:
"After you upload data from the Bodybugg armband to your computer, you can use the web-based application to see how many calories you’ve burned throughout the day or during specific activities. The Bodybugg system will actually calculate your calorie burn per minute.
After you enter the foods you eat, you’ll be able to see exactly how you’re doing towards your goals. You set your own goals and time frames. The software is completely flexible to your needs.
If you want to know how many calories you've burned, or how many steps you have taken without plugging into a computer, the Digital Display will provide real-time results. The Digital Display device is sold separately but is the perfect companion to the Bodybugg armband."
Right now, you can get the Digital Display Device free when you order theBodybugg system.
BodyBug: The Body Bug, on the other hand, is a completely different device developed in Sweden, which is more like a game system you wear. It is not yet generally available for sale in the U.S.,but I've included some information below, from their new website.
"BodyBug® is the world's first Movement Companion™. It is also a wearable friend and an electronic dance partner.
BodyBug® was invented by Dr. Jin Moen in the research lab at Interactive Institute in Stockholm, Sweden.
As a dance teacher and engineer, Dr. Jin had one goal with her work - to let everybody experience the joy of movement!
You and BodyBug
First of all, you give BodyBug a personal name. You make it yours. Once it has an identity, it starts developing. From now on, your movements determine the way BodyBug moves and the way it interacts.
You wear BodyBug on a cord attached to your body, and it registers our actions. So, when you dance, it dances with you. Also, whenever you want to be challenged, BodyBug is ready to play games with you. You choose the challenge on the display.
Using BodyBug with your friends
BodyBug talks with other BodyBugs, wirelessly. For example, when you are walking down the street wearing your BodyBug, and you meet another person who is also wearing one, the two BodyBugs will recognize each other and play their greeting song.
You can take on different BodyBug challenges together with your friends. For example “Simon Says”, where your aim is to copy the other person's movements. Your BodyBug lets you know how you are doing by moving back and forth on the cord, making noises and rolling its eyes.
BodyBug and the Internet
At the BodyBug website, you create an online home for your BodyBug. Each BodyBug has a personal room where you can update BodyBug’s friend list; upload your moves, stats and results; and show your progress to the rest of the world.
In there, you can also download additional challenges as well as create new ones. In the forums, you meet your friends, chat and boast about the tricks you have pulled off."
I'm looking forward to seeing this new Game/Dance Partner/Communication device available here. It sounds like fun!
In the meantime, if you're health concious don't forget to check out the
Bodybugg system Special Offer, or find similar devices here: Calorie Management Systems and Monitors.
