Fitness wearables gain popularity as health tracking trend grows

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, July 26, 2026

Young people in Kuwait are increasingly adopting fitness wearables like the WHOOP band, Apple Watch, and Garmin trackers to monitor health and improve their fitness routines. This trend, fueled by social media influencers and a focus on recovery and sleep metrics, highlights a growing commitment among youth to use technology for maintaining healthier lifestyles despite concerns over subscription costs and data obsession.

Fitness wearables have seen a surge in popularity among young people in Kuwait, as increasing numbers turn to technology to monitor their health and fitness routines. Devices such as the Apple Watch, Garmin trackers, smart rings, and the WHOOP fitness band are now commonly seen in gyms, sports clubs, and universities across the country.

This growing trend is partly driven by social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where influencers and athletes share their fitness journeys, encouraging many young Kuwaitis to adopt wearable technology. The devices offer users a range of health-tracking functions that go beyond traditional step counting or workout logging. In particular, WHOOP has gained attention for its focus on sleep, recovery, and overall strain rather than typical smartwatch notifications.

WHOOP operates on a subscription-based pricing model, with international plans starting at around $199 (approximately KD 61) per year and higher-tier memberships offering additional features. Some users, especially students, have expressed reservations about the recurring cost, questioning its value compared to one-time purchase models. However, others see WHOOP as a valuable tool for enhancing their understanding of physical recovery and optimizing performance.

Eighteen-year-old Raiyan Wagle said the device shifted their approach to fitness by highlighting the importance of rest and sleep. “I used to think working out harder always meant better results, but WHOOP showed me how important recovery and sleep are. It makes me pay more attention to my daily routine instead of only focusing on the gym,” Wagle noted. The screenless band tracks metrics such as heart rate variability, sleep quality, and overall strain, helping users better gauge how their bodies respond to exercise and daily activities.

Another young user, Mohammad Juzer, acknowledged the role of social media in popularizing the device. “A lot of people my age started buying it because they saw athletes, influencers, and creators wearing it online. At first, I thought it was just another trend, but after using it I realized it motivates me to sleep better and stay consistent with my workouts,” he said.

Experts and observers have acknowledged the benefits of wearable technology in promoting healthier lifestyles but warn of potential drawbacks. Ali Pali, 50, cautioned that an overemphasis on data might lead some users to become overly fixated on numbers rather than listening to their bodies. “It’s great that teenagers want to take care of their health, but some people begin checking every score and number instead of enjoying exercise. Technology should support a healthy lifestyle, not become something people feel anxious about,” Pali remarked.

While WHOOP’s subscription model and unique focus distinguish it from other wearables, its popularity in Kuwait reflects a broader movement among youth embracing technology for health management. Whether using WHOOP, Apple Watch, or other fitness trackers, many users affirm that their motivation stems from a genuine desire to cultivate healthier habits and maintain fitness over time.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.