Some great questions popping up in these comments so feel free to add any of your own and I will do a follow-up video in a week or so covering them all. 👍🏼
The subscription model is bonkers. I wish these companies would at least offer double pricing; sell it cheaper with a subscription or at a higher price without a subscription.
To be honest, they don't do that because no one really wants the subscription. So they don't make it an option. Subscriptions are steady income for years to come. If they have 1 million users that use the Oura for 3 years that pay the $6.99 every month, they'll make $251,640,000 in that time just on the subscription alone. I'm assuming they have more users than that. Factor in the cost of the device and they're in business. It's greedy for sure, but it makes their company more profitable because all they have to provide is the same app that they've already developed the software for, and collect the money to use that app from every user every month.
Being a retired old boy I'm not active enough. Coming out of winter hibernation I bought a Garmin Fenix as an aid to getting myself moving more. I came across this channel as part of the fenix research. I now find this channel is inspiring me to try and get a bit fitter. I've subscribed and would like to say thank you Mark for getting me off the couch 😊
Mark, fair play. Your review is so well written & presented. You come full circle while hitting all the points. Your RUclips videos are presented as you would approach your sporting events. With much planning and consideration. A few things certainly hit home for me during this vid. Keep it up man
I've been using the Oura ring since April, prior to that I tried the Whoop for a few months. Since I am just 4 months short of 75yo, maybe I am an "edge" use case, but the Whoop seemed to give me metrics that assumed I was much younger (i.e. recovered faster). When I asked for help, they suggested placing the strap further up my arm, which actually didn't help. Apparently that part of arm was still the same age as lower down. Not so the Oura, although I have only just received my V3 so I'm getting results based on V2 history at this point, but it has really helped with recovery so far. I am pretty active, 1750Km on the bike this year, mixed indoor and outdoor. Some racing, including having just ridden the RBC Vancouver->Whistler GranFondo 4 race series on Rouvy, 27/85 in 60+ age group (maybe they think riders stop riding at 65!) and 187/4000 (ish) overall (men). So I certainly managed to meet your "better than average" (although at my age, maybe that should be "expected") measure, but I know I can do much better. I've entered the real race in Canada in September '22, so we'll see if I survive that in some fit state!
As a user singe Oura ring V1, this has been by FAR the most sensible video I've seen on the product as well as the current debate around the release of V3. Great job Mark, much appreciated!
Sounds like how I use the scale. Like you said about the ring, it doesn't make the changes, it just measures the results. But that's what works for me: a daily number to confirm, "Yes, you really didn't need that third taco last night." So the next time I'm considering that extra helping, I know I'll be seeing the result the next morning. I'm playing a game against myself, and that chart is how I keep score.
My wife and I had version 2 and now upgraded to version 3. We love the Oura Ring and think it is worth it. But, I love technology and metrics -- I love the metrics the ring provides regarding sleep data and readiness. If you're not a metrics or numbers person, then it's likely a pass. Thanks for the review.
My dad has a heart condition and needs to see heart rate pretty much all the time but especially when exercising. Would this device do this better than an apple watch?
@@erikaskaar As far as I know, Oura has not activated the heartrate while exercising feature yet. I believe it is scheduled for a future update to the app and firmware.
@@erikaskaar Apple Watch provides easy access via a button on the side. Oura still hasn't enabled constant reading.. It also requires that you open the app and find the small heart-button in a UI that could confuse older people.
@@k1ttyF158er good to know, my dad is incredibly techno savvy, but I'll pass the info along just in case. His main issue is that it isn't reading consistently and reporting as frequently as he would like. This might just be type of hardware versus getting something that, say, straps across his chest. Thanks for the reply!
Thank you for that great review. Definitely helped me make a decision. I'm ok with the ridiculous price but to add a monthly subscription to use it is a deal breaker
Fully agree, this move to subscriptions drives me wild. I would much rather pay a little more upfront than have a constant drip of money coming out of my bank account. These subscription services make me feel like the victim of a vampire, just there to be drained of money drip by drip until it is all gone.
I recently learned that I have a disorder that leads to fragmented sleep. It looks like something like an Oura ring will me manage sleep quality during the short periods I can sleep. Your review is the best I found so far. Thank you.
It seems to me the only real advantage of this device would be measuring heart rate. Given its small footprint it might be more comfortable than a heavy watch.
Sorta. As of today it only reads HR accurately when you are NOT moving… so sitting during the day and sleep at night. In theory it has new green LEDs to measure HR during ACTIVE times but that feature is not enabled yet and Oura’s own website talks about how “hard” it will be to get accurate HR during workouts but it should be coming soon. I have a feeling it will get HR during workouts shortly BUT it will be worse than a wrist based HR during workouts like on watches or a Whoop which aren’t even that good compared to a chest strap. I think Oura really is ideal to be a companion to a sports watch where the watch does the heavy lifting of workout stat tracking and Oura tracks the calmer times, in particular night sleep. This is nice because it kinda bothers some to wear a watch at night or need to charge a watch at night (Apple Watch) so the ring will cover the gap. Even during the “normal” parts of the day the ring should cover the gap if you want to switch to a regular analogue watch for style etc. The problem with all this is as Mike said… I sorta just described the Oura 2. If the 3 doesn’t deliver on workout HR well (I doubt it) it kinda makes you wonder why you got a 3 or another subscription. In theory the 3 will also get better sleep tracking algorithms (delayed to 2022) and SPO2 oxygen tracking (delayed to 2022) that might be nice. The main thing with Oura? Want good sleep tracking, already use a fitness watch but want to take a break from it some times of the day and night and have spare cash for a geeky thing that isn’t really necessary? Oura is your best bet then.
You're really engaging to listen to Mark. Love your excitement and wittiness whilst delivering insightful and practical information with no bullshit. Well done mate:)
Contemplating purchasing because, like you said, I’m fascinated by the data. Not sure the subscription is for me though. Keep us updated on your thoughts once you’ve had it longer! Thanks for the review.
As a person who works in an Emergency Department, which requires shift work 8pm-8.30am mixed with more traditional hours, the idea of tracking these metrics terrifies me. Although my watch does tell me I enter deep sleep when i get into bed around 9.15am and shows a chart consistent with what you've said about deep sleep happening early on. I'll let you know how this lack of pattern affected me long term when I'm old and demented, repeatedly, even when no one is there to listen.
The analogies really cemented the concepts and value prop. Hilarious exchange at the end. Had me laughing out loud while cleaning up the dogs complications from consuming too much turkey. Well done.
My wife got me one. When I go to bed at 10 and wake up at 6, it tells me I got 8 hours of sleep. It also tells me whether I'm ready for my kids' BS on any given morning. Both of these are things I would know if I didn't wear the ring.
I have gen 2 getting gen 3 (for lifetime). i find it useful and nudges you into the right direction and give you a good general trend direction. wouldn't pay subscription for it though.
Thanks for the content, outstanding as always! I tried a Whoop for a while but dropped it. I agree with your general premise that the biggest benefit for a person already tracking activity (workouts) would be the sleep data. When I had a Whoop, I just did not feel like the cost:benefit was there to keep it. I am less attracted to the Oura based on the initial price + subscription. Thanks for the review, now I know that if I am ever interested in sleep tracking again, the Oura won't be the option that I look at.
I just wish Garmin Connect worked better with multiple devices. I also wish Garmin made something like a ring. Because i don’t want to wear my watch all the time but still want to track things
Interesting product, but like you said. It can't replace a good garmin watch for tracking fitness and activities. I stopped wearing my flashy watches because I find it more important and just more convenient to stick to the garmin. Nothing worst then showing up at the trails fresh out of the office ready for your run with the wrong bloody watch on your wrist!
I decided to get my Oura 2 because since I was around 16 I have remembered very few of my dreams. Having read Matthew Walkers book and watched his Masterclass (definitely recommend) I realised that it might be related to a lack of REM sleep. My Garmin Forerunner 235 doesn't measure sleep accurately at all and always said 0 hours of REM sleep, which is impossible, especially as my girlfriend who has the same Garmin also records 0 hours of rem. Once I got my Oura I could see that I was regularly deficient in REM - all my other measurements were fine but something about REM was tough for me. It's been really tricky to try and improve my REM without impacting other factors but I have recently been having a couple of nights sleep where my REM is okay. Like Mark I bought my Oura 2 just before they released the Oura 3 and I was rather annoyed that there was no sort of warning before purchasing as I probably would have just waited for the 3. In the end I decided to just stick with the 2 as it fills my use case for tracking my REM effectively. I don't need the subscription. My Garmin tracks all my activity data that I need. One other thing I find useful about the Oura is napping. I've never napped before in my life but sometimes when I have had a bad nights sleep I am now more aware of the impact of a 15 minute nap to improve my "Readiness".
@@alantaha I think it's several things. I now live in a new area where there is very little traffic noise, and it's much darker at night. I have stopped having caffeine after 2pm, including chocolate and tea. I eat my dinner earlier and avoid spicy foods for dinner.
Anyone else keep an eye on how much kitchen roll is left from video to video? No...just me?! Interesting video after always hearing Lance Armstrong talk for 17 minutes about these at the start of each of his podcasts, but I'll stick with my Coros data for now... Totally resonate with the argument at 16.45 too...
Great review. Personally, I’ll be sticking with my Fenix 6 and body battery! Tracks sleep as well as I need and like you, I feel that nothing touches a Fenix for endurance sport tracking. Defo on the bulky side for wearing 24/7 but that’s a small price to pay for what it gives me in return.
@@TurkeyDart I guess it’s what you get used to. First couple of nights, I was aware of the watch but I don’t notice it now. I find Fenix sleep data is reassuringly accurate. Even when duration of sleep was good but quality of sleep is low (deep in particular), it correlates with how I feel that day in hindsight.
@@TurkeyDart could not sleep well with standard F6 on my wrist but hardly feel the F6s at all. Have put on a lightweight nylon velcro strap (off Amazon) as well. Works perfectly!
One of my bonuses is that it reminds me of my childhood favorite movie called Titan AE, and the MC had a golden ring that had a bunch of technology on the inside of the ring. So that's just a bonus to me, hahah
Mark, just stumbled on this video. It's jam packed with content and your reading of Matthew Walker's book is great. I suggest you add Peter Attia to you information diet, if you haven't already!
The ring itself is pretty pricey. Add the subscription fee on top of that and I think you have a pretty extravagant wellness tool. But for some people, especially those who don't like to wear a fitness watch that tracks sleep, the Ring's cost could be worth its health benefits. I use an Apple Watch for fitness and wellness tracking. Although the stock sleep app is fairly bare bones and disappointing, there are several impressive 3rd party sleep apps that monitor the same metrics as the Ring with no subscription fee. Plus there's is all the other functionality the Apple Watch provides that the Ring does not. For me, the Apple Watch (aluminum version) is a much more cost effective and useful piece of technology.
That was an excellent overview. Best to leave the wife out of these things, but I'm glad you included such commentary - I laughed pretty hard! I agree with your sentiments regarding the ring overall. It will be interesting in the long term how they enable future features such as the SPO2 measurements. For me being a fairly sedentary person - walking the dog a couple times a day and living at my desk for my 8-hr a day desk job, the ring is my ideal activity tracker. It is discrete unlike a cumbersome watch for both sleeping and daytime activities. The day I begin really exercising again - a watch makes sense. Oura's app is well done (minus the Android feature disparities - which they will hopefully close the gap on again, soon). I believe for the majority of people Oura offers some good insights into a world they might not know much about unless like you, they've hosted podcasts or simply listened to podcasts with sleep experts. Neat bit of teeny tiny technology.
You're right about day to day readiness values being somewhat unnecessary. Consider it as a tool for building fitness. This is where I see how my readiness recovered after a big event in May compared to September. Your fitness will be reflected in that number if you're training is effective. How long have you had the ring? I've had mine for nearly 2 years and I get an alert at 7:30 PM saying I should wind down for sleep. I consider that to be the 'warning to not eat an entire pack of digestives' at midnight.
That's definitely a good point-over time I will get a better feel for what everything means to me and can be use the data more appropriately
3 года назад+2
Great video but I'm missing the angle of changing from body battery. I also want to use my other watches than the Garmin. Is it worth to get the ring and loose the Garmin 360 data?
I know the numbers don't really mean a huge amount to me. I know what I need to do, what I need to eat, and when I need to go to sleep in order to stay healthy and fit, I just have a hard time doing all of those things without something pushing me to do it. That's basically the role the fitness tracker I wear plays for me- a device to keep me motivated.
Great video! I came here wondering if I should return my girlfriend's Christmas present and left with a revival service about sleep quality. I wish I never got it. We're both active runners experienced with Garmin Watches, I use mine for battery tracking and sleep but she doesn't like to wear hers to bed. I "care" about her sleep and got this as a motivator for her to track her sleep and energy. I now think this ring won't fix behavior and I could've spent that $400+ on something less passive agressive. If you have a garmin watch, just use that. Otherwise, based on the company's business practices, lack of customer service, and price..... I wouldn't do it. Unless you have the quid and don't have a watch, then yeah... Numbers are fun. Knock yourself out.
You’re so right, i have a Withings under the mattress sleep tracker (btw, it’s much cheaper than a ring, there is nothing to wear and no need to charge it), but it’s practically useless to me. I don’t need a device to tell me that i’m tired because i didn’t sleep well. If i feel exhausted/tired, i check my form in training peaks and usually it’s evident that i overtrained, simple. Also, i really wouldn’t buy a product for $400 that requires a subscription just to see the data, when the product is designed/sold to provide that data. Hiding the useful data behind a pay wall will not win customers. They are treating their customers as fools. I almost bought the Aura ring version 2, but then a colleague pointed out their marketing material was mainly presenting a lifestyle fashion accessory, and i realised he was right. A $400 ring (and monthly subscription) really won’t help to make me a better athlete. Nice try tho. 🤣.
After 10 years of RUclips, here is my first comment ever on this platform: This is by far, the most sensible, informative, rational and useful review I have ever seen. Can I ask you to also review phones? And maybe cars? Furniture? What about dog races? Dude, just review everything please :) No, seriously. I always get super hyped about a product and buy stuff just to stop using it after a while. I'm conscious that I don't really need, but I justify the purchase with some "rationale" and just because I can and I want. I did got excited about the ring at the first minutes. Even Opened their website. Then I kept watching, and the review somehow slowly regulated my emotions. Now I still think it's cool and would like to try it, but not enough to buy it since I know I'll stop using after all. Anyway, Just gonna give you a subscribe and spend my working afternoon watching your other videos. Thank you about that.
Just an idea for a video, you could do a meet up with all your followers and go up the Alpe. You could have it set to see only those in the meet up and get a massive group going up it
Very interesting ! I have the Fenix 5 Plus and I keep thinking about the Fenix 6 because of the extra sleep/body battery stuff. I don’t mind wearing the Fenix 24/7 so I don’t think I need the ring, just the newer watch…. But have to wait until March and maybe the Fenix 7 will be announced by then too just to further complicate everything (=. Great videos! Thanks for sharing your insights!
Such a great review! Want the gen 3 But my 4 year old Oura ring is still in excellent condition, thanks to the protector I got from OSleeve. Guess it was wise to protect our investments, huh?
Timely video release! I have a few days left to upgrade from the 2 to 3 and have been hesitant to jump on on this. I’m thinking of waiting and jumping on next year’s Black Friday deal which was the exact one they offered me as a gen 2 owner. But, my understanding is that Matt Walker is coming on board now as a contributor and as a member you’ll have secret squirrel access into the world of sleep. Did Matt happen to mention his involvement with gen 3?
@@MarkLewisfitness thanks and understand it’s a hard subject to attach qualitative value to. Personally I got hard sick with flu and for the past 10 days have watched my progression through this with the temp feature on the oura ring. Interesting, is an understatement. But it tracked from beginning to end accurately for me. Not an endorsement. But wish Oura had more stories like this.
Thanks Mark, interesting review. Does the data from the ring correlate with the sleep data recorded by the Fenix - quick look at the Garmin app looks like very similar categories?
It does but I have more faith in the oura ring than garmin for sleep - I just think they really snug fit around your finger and all the sensors they have packed in there is a better set up than the wrist. For simple heart rate, and therefore exercise, the rest is fine but extremity temperature, heart rate variability, et cetera-it does seem that finger is best.
Great video!! I love the sense of humour! I’m on the fence about this ring. I “want” it, but I know I don’t need it. You’re right, other than going to bed early and at the same time every night, avoiding coffee and alcohol, not watching a screen for a bit before bed, that pretty much covers all one needs to do to enhance their sleep. BUT I like data 😅 and if that gets me motivated to stick to the plan, perhaps it’s worth it and I would get graphs 😂
Good stuff as usual. Why we sleep changed my life too. Try also Exercised by Daniel Lieberman- an evolutionary perspective on what our body is already tuned to do by design. Lieberman also argues that we were not necessarily meant to get uninterrupted sleep every night because predators and fire-tending, so we should not worry that much when sleep is not totally smooth.
I wish they would have stayed away from a subscription model but still decided to order one. As a guy whose had cancer and diabetes who is very mindful of my health now, I feel this would be a big help to me. I can’t wear a watch all day, just isn’t comfortable to me.
Like you Mark, I know my body. Tomorrow if their is something that is off about me I can usually figure why and I also knew the day before I should or shouldn't had done that but did it anyway. I am only interested in monitoring my exercise amount, duration and intensity. The rest of my waking hours I need a device that is the equivalent of a drill sergeant that preemptively stops me from taking an action and structures my day that most benefits me
Having literally (as in 3 hours ago) just ordered a Fenix 6 based partly on your videos (feel free to forward this to Garmin..) I’m really glad this is not a ‘get a Oura ring rather than a Garmin’ video 😂
Thanks for the review Mark, and all the other good stuff on the channel. There’s a few opinions online that suggest anywhere other than the index finger reduces the reliability of some of the data. My preference would be ring finger, and anywhere else, I just know I’d not be comfortable with it. DId you look into that aspect? Again, thanks.
Hey Mark. Great video. Wow, you’ve bulked out a bit since the last time I watched one of your videos. Looking great man. Loved the video, one question however. All this info regarding sleep is great, whatever way you get that info. However what do we do with the data. You touched on it slightly in the video, going bed early. That can’t surely be the answer for all our sleepless night woes etc. I’ve toiled with wearing Fenix 6 and Apple Watch 6 for sleep tracking, thing is I know when my sleep is crap with or without a watch. I need some great advice on getting the best sleep. I’ll listen to that podcast you recommend for one. Also I seem to remember I certainly slept better when I was plant based. Keep up great work. I’ve now subscribed.
I think with a lot of this technology it gets thrown at the market because it exists and “because we can” rather than because we need it or there is a demand for it, and it takes a while before we can judge if it actually is useful or how. Personally I’m pretty skeptical of this or most other similar technology or at least it doesn’t really tackle the right problem - it’s a gimmick for the already-fit 5% rather than the not-fit 95% of the population that is the actual health issue that needs to be addressed. I’m also not convinced that giving us one more thing to stress over is actually mentally beneficial. Our mental health is worse than ever and I don’t think devices like this help, they take up mental energy and time that could be more productively spent, and harangue us electronically for “failing” (to rest, to sleep well, to get enough exercise).
I have to agree with the final assessment RE: whoop for fitness vs oura for wellness. I’ve been on the whoop since 2.0 and get a ton of use out of it. It’s not perfect but when paired paired with my garmin kit for workout tracking gives me almost everything I need. The report data and habits are excellent tools to assess and optimize your lifestyle and training. Whoop 4.0 complaints: - battery life could be better. Yes, the battery is small and recharges fast but it’s still a hassle. - current strain tracking is limited to hrv which doesn’t really have a way to measure strain on the body from strength training, which can be huge if weightlifting is a large part of your regimen. (I heard they’re working on a fox for this) - subscription model pricing is aggressive ✌️
Boy, at least with the Whoop strap there’s no device cost. These guys charge you more than the cost of a full Garmin 245 *plus* a $7 monthly fee (for those of us who’d be interested, but aren’t going to get lifetime app), all for a tiny ring that doesn’t go as deep as the watch? These companies are just crazy. Unfortunately, I’m starting to feel like it’s only a matter of time before Garmin starts charging a subscription as well….
If Garmin charged subs there would be uproar (although after the last couple of years, it seems people will put up with quite a bit before roaring so who knows!!!!!!)
Great video. I have a heart disease, I like to track my macros and sleep so guess this will be a great fit for me. Luke you, I'm extremely active and don't need any reminders in that department.
I just ride my bike,not interested in any of the electronic ripoff crap. Mate you have me hooked,even when you are talking about this oral ring i just love listening to your descriptions and funny quips and subtle irony👍👍👍. Great channel......start doing reviews on bikes,you may start getting £10,000 bikes delivered to your door for free!!😂😂
Seems to me the podcast is the better way to go to improve my sleep behaviors, especially since I am someone who can be a bit data obsessive and already suffers from poor sleep. Good review though.
Dude, I started to watch your stuff as I was looking for a Garmin watch - instinct 2 ended up the one. Thought I would drop a comment. I enjoy your presentation skill and format. Good work, thanks.
Enjoyed your presentation and content. I just ponied up for a Gen 3 though, caught a little off guard by the 'necessity' of the subscription model. Seems like Oura should discount the hardware if they're all about monetizing users monthly. I've been fit all my life however, at 65 and in grad school with the pandemic asa factor, I've been more sedentary than I'd like. Hopefully, I fall in to the majority group that finds value being present to the data as a motivating factor and not the just chap on the scale :-)
Follow up, the Oura site didn't 'error trap' my zip code and the sizing kit took 3 weeks to reach me. OK , stuff happens. I go to the web site to correct my profile and cannot do that, no access. I also couldn't confirm my order prior to pushing the button to ship it. OK - Customer support (using the term lightly) offered to do this manually and forwarded a .jpg of the rings, lol, AND... it was no longer funny when they said my choice was more $ and I'd have to cancel my order , start from scratch and pay the differential. My take at this point is, they should have comped the $ difference and sent my ring out. I cancelled my order as directed and have not re-ordered. Web site and Customer service needs to be top-notch to support a subscription model and sadly, they lack both. I'm open to being proven wrong but apparently fb is full of similar complaints.
Thanks Mark. Yeah i had a woop, it was shit, and i was recently considering this ring but now i realise i don't really need it. I know i need more sleep. Simple. I do need the cheapest way to record runs to strava as I'm a cyclist considering running but that's it. Then I'll just look at the strain scores on strava.
I have a Fitbit just to track my sleep I've been considering getting the ring but now that I found out you have to pay a monthly subscription I probably will just stay with my current device
Great video as always. On a side note, have you ever considered the super sapiens blood sugar monitors for some of your longer events? Even just to upload a similar ish video to this one on how you perceive how that tech can affect your approach to exercise etc.. It's quite expensive at the moment but seems to be an exciting new Avenue for sports tech.
It looks very cool and a company that provides 24 seven blood glucose monitoring has contacted me - might be looking at doing something over Christmas/New Year
Refreshing to hear some real experiences in the sea of blunt paid promotions. Glad you mentioned the power of gamification. I was already typing my comment :D:D - Also: having a physical reminder on the most noticeable spot you have is very powerful thing. In the end you paid quite a lot of money to getting better at something; so being reminded of that fact alone might be enough motivation to make concious decisions about something you would otherwise just do on a whim.
I had a v2 ring for covid and its claim to predict illness. I valued its input until it died - wouldn't come back from airplane mode the week Oura released the updated app for v3. After a lot of back and forth with support and long waits they actually comp'd me a v3 ring. I wouldn't pay Oura's (or Whoop's) subscription either but I'm very happy with the ring with an app that's free. I use Oura in airplane mode - so only for sleep data but in combo with iWatch, HRM and bike computer data that goes into Training peaks to fill out my annual training plan and monitor my fitness, fatigue and form.
Classic review as always Mark but what I would like to know is how does it deal with atrial fibrillation? Will it give accurate figures or like any other monitor be complete bollox ?
LOL! Dude, you're definitely entertaining, and informative. Totally appreciate your channel. As for the Oura....yeah I wasn't all that hot on the subscription model for the Whoop (which is why I've never considered owning one) and the Oura is no different! Besides my Fenix 6 is more than enough for what I need it for. Oh and thanks for the tips as well. I"ll try to eat earlier and stop watching videos in bed, as well as get to bed a little bit earlier. Thanks again.
FYI I'm an oura 2 user, and we don't need to subscribe for any of the existing ring 2 features with the ring 2 (but you need to subscribe if you want to use ring 2 features on ring 3)
Hi Gen2 owner but missed the Cut off .. and they basically told me to bad So bought Gen3 and got 6 months .. thanks for letting us know what we will NO LONGER be getting with no subscription.. sadly I don’t think so .. love the ring but I have an issue accessing my personal data via a subscription.. So after my free months … that will be it Saddened that this was not made clear by Oura Hopefully they have a change in policy Thanks
I've been on the fence about this ring. A friend of mine suggested the Oura Ring 2, but I wanted the latest (and greatest) technology but as you pointed out, who wants to pay monthly for information that probably should already be included with purchase. I'll wait to see what happens next with this brand because I tried on the 2nd version and really liked it. In the meantime I'll be searching other brands to see who compares best. Also, I've been using Fitbit for years now and how cool it would be if they came out with a RING. 😉
My fenix 6 does body battery and sleep tracking. It works well enough for me to get a sense of what my body is doing, so I have no need for another device. But I can see that some people might find it valuable.
Thanks for sharing your experience! I'm currently using a Amazfit T-Rex Pro. I must say: The sleep data and point system is surprisingly accurate, better than with my Garmin Vivoactive 4. But as you said: It's a big watch. I thought about buying the oura ring, but the prize *AND* the membership fee is simply not worth it. So I will stick with my clunky cheap watch, which is good enough, even if not perfect :D
I was curious about the ring, heard about the subscription stuff and bought a competing brand instead. Subscription models have their place with some things..... but not everything should be subscription...
You should find out what Running "power meters" record if you wear them while cycling. Keep in mind that Running and Cycling power are completely unrelated, and Running "power meters" mostly just estimate it from other data anyway. But I'm still curious about it.
Nice video Mark. Tracking HRv using an optic sensor is pretty inacurate. If you want i can randomize numbers for you :). Use a wirst band and track your HARV daily with an app
Some great questions popping up in these comments so feel free to add any of your own and I will do a follow-up video in a week or so covering them all. 👍🏼
Hey Mark, are you STILL using/wearing the Oura ring?
@X YT Matthew Walker on Sam Harris. But Walker has been on a few
The subscription model is bonkers. I wish these companies would at least offer double pricing; sell it cheaper with a subscription or at a higher price without a subscription.
To be honest, they don't do that because no one really wants the subscription. So they don't make it an option. Subscriptions are steady income for years to come. If they have 1 million users that use the Oura for 3 years that pay the $6.99 every month, they'll make $251,640,000 in that time just on the subscription alone. I'm assuming they have more users than that. Factor in the cost of the device and they're in business. It's greedy for sure, but it makes their company more profitable because all they have to provide is the same app that they've already developed the software for, and collect the money to use that app from every user every month.
Fr, i would rather them charge more for the ring to help support their service.
The sub is the reason I don't even consider it
Being a retired old boy I'm not active enough. Coming out of winter hibernation I bought a Garmin Fenix as an aid to getting myself moving more. I came across this channel as part of the fenix research. I now find this channel is inspiring me to try and get a bit fitter. I've subscribed and would like to say thank you Mark for getting me off the couch 😊
Mark, fair play. Your review is so well written & presented. You come full circle while hitting all the points. Your RUclips videos are presented as you would approach your sporting events. With much planning and consideration. A few things certainly hit home for me during this vid. Keep it up man
Thanks John 🙏
I've been using the Oura ring since April, prior to that I tried the Whoop for a few months. Since I am just 4 months short of 75yo, maybe I am an "edge" use case, but the Whoop seemed to give me metrics that assumed I was much younger (i.e. recovered faster). When I asked for help, they suggested placing the strap further up my arm, which actually didn't help. Apparently that part of arm was still the same age as lower down. Not so the Oura, although I have only just received my V3 so I'm getting results based on V2 history at this point, but it has really helped with recovery so far. I am pretty active, 1750Km on the bike this year, mixed indoor and outdoor. Some racing, including having just ridden the RBC Vancouver->Whistler GranFondo 4 race series on Rouvy, 27/85 in 60+ age group (maybe they think riders stop riding at 65!) and 187/4000 (ish) overall (men). So I certainly managed to meet your "better than average" (although at my age, maybe that should be "expected") measure, but I know I can do much better. I've entered the real race in Canada in September '22, so we'll see if I survive that in some fit state!
Would love to hear your experience with it after you’ve used Oura more
Same here
how it has helped with your recovery exactly?
As a user singe Oura ring V1, this has been by FAR the most sensible video I've seen on the product as well as the current debate around the release of V3. Great job Mark, much appreciated!
Sounds like how I use the scale. Like you said about the ring, it doesn't make the changes, it just measures the results.
But that's what works for me: a daily number to confirm, "Yes, you really didn't need that third taco last night." So the next time I'm considering that extra helping, I know I'll be seeing the result the next morning. I'm playing a game against myself, and that chart is how I keep score.
My wife and I had version 2 and now upgraded to version 3. We love the Oura Ring and think it is worth it. But, I love technology and metrics -- I love the metrics the ring provides regarding sleep data and readiness. If you're not a metrics or numbers person, then it's likely a pass. Thanks for the review.
My dad has a heart condition and needs to see heart rate pretty much all the time but especially when exercising.
Would this device do this better than an apple watch?
@@erikaskaar As far as I know, Oura has not activated the heartrate while exercising feature yet. I believe it is scheduled for a future update to the app and firmware.
How was it upgrading. Any trade in programs? My wife and I want the version 3 but not if they’re coming out with a 4 lol
@@erikaskaar Apple Watch provides easy access via a button on the side. Oura still hasn't enabled constant reading.. It also requires that you open the app and find the small heart-button in a UI that could confuse older people.
@@k1ttyF158er good to know, my dad is incredibly techno savvy, but I'll pass the info along just in case. His main issue is that it isn't reading consistently and reporting as frequently as he would like. This might just be type of hardware versus getting something that, say, straps across his chest.
Thanks for the reply!
Thank you for that great review. Definitely helped me make a decision. I'm ok with the ridiculous price but to add a monthly subscription to use it is a deal breaker
Fully agree, this move to subscriptions drives me wild. I would much rather pay a little more upfront than have a constant drip of money coming out of my bank account. These subscription services make me feel like the victim of a vampire, just there to be drained of money drip by drip until it is all gone.
I recently learned that I have a disorder that leads to fragmented sleep. It looks like something like an Oura ring will me manage sleep quality during the short periods I can sleep. Your review is the best I found so far. Thank you.
It seems to me the only real advantage of this device would be measuring heart rate. Given its small footprint it might be more comfortable than a heavy watch.
Sorta. As of today it only reads HR accurately when you are NOT moving… so sitting during the day and sleep at night. In theory it has new green LEDs to measure HR during ACTIVE times but that feature is not enabled yet and Oura’s own website talks about how “hard” it will be to get accurate HR during workouts but it should be coming soon. I have a feeling it will get HR during workouts shortly BUT it will be worse than a wrist based HR during workouts like on watches or a Whoop which aren’t even that good compared to a chest strap. I think Oura really is ideal to be a companion to a sports watch where the watch does the heavy lifting of workout stat tracking and Oura tracks the calmer times, in particular night sleep. This is nice because it kinda bothers some to wear a watch at night or need to charge a watch at night (Apple Watch) so the ring will cover the gap. Even during the “normal” parts of the day the ring should cover the gap if you want to switch to a regular analogue watch for style etc.
The problem with all this is as Mike said… I sorta just described the Oura 2. If the 3 doesn’t deliver on workout HR well (I doubt it) it kinda makes you wonder why you got a 3 or another subscription. In theory the 3 will also get better sleep tracking algorithms (delayed to 2022) and SPO2 oxygen tracking (delayed to 2022) that might be nice.
The main thing with Oura? Want good sleep tracking, already use a fitness watch but want to take a break from it some times of the day and night and have spare cash for a geeky thing that isn’t really necessary? Oura is your best bet then.
You're really engaging to listen to Mark. Love your excitement and wittiness whilst delivering insightful and practical information with no bullshit. Well done mate:)
Thanks - I use delivery to mask lack of understanding 😂
Contemplating purchasing because, like you said, I’m fascinated by the data. Not sure the subscription is for me though. Keep us updated on your thoughts once you’ve had it longer! Thanks for the review.
Just go with the subscription. You won’t even feel it
@@lancer717 Imagine being ok with not owning things you buy.
@@oz_jones lol ok ok. I get it
As a person who works in an Emergency Department, which requires shift work 8pm-8.30am mixed with more traditional hours, the idea of tracking these metrics terrifies me. Although my watch does tell me I enter deep sleep when i get into bed around 9.15am and shows a chart consistent with what you've said about deep sleep happening early on.
I'll let you know how this lack of pattern affected me long term when I'm old and demented, repeatedly, even when no one is there to listen.
The analogies really cemented the concepts and value prop. Hilarious exchange at the end. Had me laughing out loud while cleaning up the dogs complications from consuming too much turkey. Well done.
My wife got me one. When I go to bed at 10 and wake up at 6, it tells me I got 8 hours of sleep. It also tells me whether I'm ready for my kids' BS on any given morning. Both of these are things I would know if I didn't wear the ring.
Watched this twice now, once when it was originally posted and today a year or so later… absolutely nailed it big guy. 😂
I have gen 2 getting gen 3 (for lifetime). i find it useful and nudges you into the right direction and give you a good general trend direction. wouldn't pay subscription for it though.
Thanks for the content, outstanding as always! I tried a Whoop for a while but dropped it. I agree with your general premise that the biggest benefit for a person already tracking activity (workouts) would be the sleep data. When I had a Whoop, I just did not feel like the cost:benefit was there to keep it. I am less attracted to the Oura based on the initial price + subscription. Thanks for the review, now I know that if I am ever interested in sleep tracking again, the Oura won't be the option that I look at.
I just wish Garmin Connect worked better with multiple devices. I also wish Garmin made something like a ring. Because i don’t want to wear my watch all the time but still want to track things
Interesting product, but like you said. It can't replace a good garmin watch for tracking fitness and activities. I stopped wearing my flashy watches because I find it more important and just more convenient to stick to the garmin. Nothing worst then showing up at the trails fresh out of the office ready for your run with the wrong bloody watch on your wrist!
I decided to get my Oura 2 because since I was around 16 I have remembered very few of my dreams. Having read Matthew Walkers book and watched his Masterclass (definitely recommend) I realised that it might be related to a lack of REM sleep. My Garmin Forerunner 235 doesn't measure sleep accurately at all and always said 0 hours of REM sleep, which is impossible, especially as my girlfriend who has the same Garmin also records 0 hours of rem. Once I got my Oura I could see that I was regularly deficient in REM - all my other measurements were fine but something about REM was tough for me. It's been really tricky to try and improve my REM without impacting other factors but I have recently been having a couple of nights sleep where my REM is okay.
Like Mark I bought my Oura 2 just before they released the Oura 3 and I was rather annoyed that there was no sort of warning before purchasing as I probably would have just waited for the 3. In the end I decided to just stick with the 2 as it fills my use case for tracking my REM effectively. I don't need the subscription. My Garmin tracks all my activity data that I need.
One other thing I find useful about the Oura is napping. I've never napped before in my life but sometimes when I have had a bad nights sleep I am now more aware of the impact of a 15 minute nap to improve my "Readiness".
How did your REM? I feel I am like you, lacking the REM and never been a nap person
@@alantaha I think it's several things. I now live in a new area where there is very little traffic noise, and it's much darker at night. I have stopped having caffeine after 2pm, including chocolate and tea. I eat my dinner earlier and avoid spicy foods for dinner.
Love your reviews not only because they are interesting but also because they are honest . Thanks !
Anyone else keep an eye on how much kitchen roll is left from video to video? No...just me?! Interesting video after always hearing Lance Armstrong talk for 17 minutes about these at the start of each of his podcasts, but I'll stick with my Coros data for now... Totally resonate with the argument at 16.45 too...
Now this is what I call an honest real world review. Many thanks my man, cheers!
Great review. Personally, I’ll be sticking with my Fenix 6 and body battery! Tracks sleep as well as I need and like you, I feel that nothing touches a Fenix for endurance sport tracking. Defo on the bulky side for wearing 24/7 but that’s a small price to pay for what it gives me in return.
Look into Fenix 6S (or soon to be released 7S) for all the same features in a smaller package :)
Whats your opinion on sleeping with the watch for sleep data? Did it take awhile to get used to it?
@@frnic0las yea i really wanted this thing. But i refuse to pay for another subscription service to track steps and sleep
@@TurkeyDart I guess it’s what you get used to. First couple of nights, I was aware of the watch but I don’t notice it now. I find Fenix sleep data is reassuringly accurate. Even when duration of sleep was good but quality of sleep is low (deep in particular), it correlates with how I feel that day in hindsight.
@@TurkeyDart could not sleep well with standard F6 on my wrist but hardly feel the F6s at all. Have put on a lightweight nylon velcro strap (off Amazon) as well. Works perfectly!
Something I cannot unsee...the loo roll holder on the wall combined with the sitting position. The scene is only missing a copy of Loaded.
Mate hilarious and informative at the same time, love it.
As always , I find myself informed and pleasantly entertained .
One of my bonuses is that it reminds me of my childhood favorite movie called Titan AE, and the MC had a golden ring that had a bunch of technology on the inside of the ring. So that's just a bonus to me, hahah
Love my Oura. Have gone through all generations in my family.
You are informative and "quietly" hilarious. A rare combination that made me subscribe to your channel.
Mark, just stumbled on this video. It's jam packed with content and your reading of Matthew Walker's book is great. I suggest you add Peter Attia to you information diet, if you haven't already!
The comedy of this channel is underrated hahaha. Great videos aMark
The ring itself is pretty pricey. Add the subscription fee on top of that and I think you have a pretty extravagant wellness tool. But for some people, especially those who don't like to wear a fitness watch that tracks sleep, the Ring's cost could be worth its health benefits. I use an Apple Watch for fitness and wellness tracking. Although the stock sleep app is fairly bare bones and disappointing, there are several impressive 3rd party sleep apps that monitor the same metrics as the Ring with no subscription fee. Plus there's is all the other functionality the Apple Watch provides that the Ring does not. For me, the Apple Watch (aluminum version) is a much more cost effective and useful piece of technology.
That was an excellent overview. Best to leave the wife out of these things, but I'm glad you included such commentary - I laughed pretty hard! I agree with your sentiments regarding the ring overall. It will be interesting in the long term how they enable future features such as the SPO2 measurements. For me being a fairly sedentary person - walking the dog a couple times a day and living at my desk for my 8-hr a day desk job, the ring is my ideal activity tracker. It is discrete unlike a cumbersome watch for both sleeping and daytime activities. The day I begin really exercising again - a watch makes sense. Oura's app is well done (minus the Android feature disparities - which they will hopefully close the gap on again, soon). I believe for the majority of people Oura offers some good insights into a world they might not know much about unless like you, they've hosted podcasts or simply listened to podcasts with sleep experts. Neat bit of teeny tiny technology.
Great video mate. Thanks for tasking the time to talk about and explain things that i simply cant afford. I found it interesting all the same. Thanks.
Thanks Mark, well informed and entertained.
You're right about day to day readiness values being somewhat unnecessary. Consider it as a tool for building fitness. This is where I see how my readiness recovered after a big event in May compared to September. Your fitness will be reflected in that number if you're training is effective. How long have you had the ring? I've had mine for nearly 2 years and I get an alert at 7:30 PM saying I should wind down for sleep. I consider that to be the 'warning to not eat an entire pack of digestives' at midnight.
That's definitely a good point-over time I will get a better feel for what everything means to me and can be use the data more appropriately
Great video but I'm missing the angle of changing from body battery. I also want to use my other watches than the Garmin. Is it worth to get the ring and loose the Garmin 360 data?
I know the numbers don't really mean a huge amount to me. I know what I need to do, what I need to eat, and when I need to go to sleep in order to stay healthy and fit, I just have a hard time doing all of those things without something pushing me to do it. That's basically the role the fitness tracker I wear plays for me- a device to keep me motivated.
I agree completely - for that they are superb
Great video! I came here wondering if I should return my girlfriend's Christmas present and left with a revival service about sleep quality. I wish I never got it. We're both active runners experienced with Garmin Watches, I use mine for battery tracking and sleep but she doesn't like to wear hers to bed. I "care" about her sleep and got this as a motivator for her to track her sleep and energy. I now think this ring won't fix behavior and I could've spent that $400+ on something less passive agressive. If you have a garmin watch, just use that. Otherwise, based on the company's business practices, lack of customer service, and price..... I wouldn't do it. Unless you have the quid and don't have a watch, then yeah... Numbers are fun. Knock yourself out.
You’re so right, i have a Withings under the mattress sleep tracker (btw, it’s much cheaper than a ring, there is nothing to wear and no need to charge it), but it’s practically useless to me. I don’t need a device to tell me that i’m tired because i didn’t sleep well. If i feel exhausted/tired, i check my form in training peaks and usually it’s evident that i overtrained, simple. Also, i really wouldn’t buy a product for $400 that requires a subscription just to see the data, when the product is designed/sold to provide that data. Hiding the useful data behind a pay wall will not win customers. They are treating their customers as fools. I almost bought the Aura ring version 2, but then a colleague pointed out their marketing material was mainly presenting a lifestyle fashion accessory, and i realised he was right. A $400 ring (and monthly subscription) really won’t help to make me a better athlete. Nice try tho. 🤣.
Just discovered this channel. You're a straight talker. Rare. Subscribed!
I appreciate your transparency. Good information.
Always very honest, greatly appreciated!
After 10 years of RUclips, here is my first comment ever on this platform:
This is by far, the most sensible, informative, rational and useful review I have ever seen.
Can I ask you to also review phones? And maybe cars? Furniture? What about dog races? Dude, just review everything please :)
No, seriously.
I always get super hyped about a product and buy stuff just to stop using it after a while. I'm conscious that I don't really need, but I justify the purchase with some "rationale" and just because I can and I want.
I did got excited about the ring at the first minutes. Even Opened their website. Then I kept watching, and the review somehow slowly regulated my emotions. Now I still think it's cool and would like to try it, but not enough to buy it since I know I'll stop using after all.
Anyway, Just gonna give you a subscribe and spend my working afternoon watching your other videos. Thank you about that.
Thanks. For your first comment in 10 years you kicked it off with a good one 😁👍🏼
Just an idea for a video, you could do a meet up with all your followers and go up the Alpe. You could have it set to see only those in the meet up and get a massive group going up it
Very interesting ! I have the Fenix 5 Plus and I keep thinking about the Fenix 6 because of the extra sleep/body battery stuff. I don’t mind wearing the Fenix 24/7 so I don’t think I need the ring, just the newer watch…. But have to wait until March and maybe the Fenix 7 will be announced by then too just to further complicate everything (=. Great videos! Thanks for sharing your insights!
I hope you’ve got your Fenix7/Epix :)
@@atmamont Still need to wait until March to pick up the Fenix7, and March cannot get here soon enough!
Such a great review! Want the gen 3 But my 4 year old Oura ring is still in excellent condition, thanks to the protector I got from OSleeve. Guess it was wise to protect our investments, huh?
spot on Mark, agree, agree, agree. that's 3 agrees, you are now my friend.
Timely video release! I have a few days left to upgrade from the 2 to 3 and have been hesitant to jump on on this. I’m thinking of waiting and jumping on next year’s Black Friday deal which was the exact one they offered me as a gen 2 owner. But, my understanding is that Matt Walker is coming on board now as a contributor and as a member you’ll have secret squirrel access into the world of sleep. Did Matt happen to mention his involvement with gen 3?
He did, but not in any depth. I assumed since aspect’s of what he’s doing with them are under wraps till it’s all live??
@@MarkLewisfitness thanks and understand it’s a hard subject to attach qualitative value to. Personally I got hard sick with flu and for the past 10 days have watched my progression through this with the temp feature on the oura ring. Interesting, is an understatement. But it tracked from beginning to end accurately for me. Not an endorsement. But wish Oura had more stories like this.
Thanks Mark, interesting review. Does the data from the ring correlate with the sleep data recorded by the Fenix - quick look at the Garmin app looks like very similar categories?
It does but I have more faith in the oura ring than garmin for sleep - I just think they really snug fit around your finger and all the sensors they have packed in there is a better set up than the wrist. For simple heart rate, and therefore exercise, the rest is fine but extremity temperature, heart rate variability, et cetera-it does seem that finger is best.
Great video!! I love the sense of humour!
I’m on the fence about this ring. I “want” it, but I know I don’t need it. You’re right, other than going to bed early and at the same time every night, avoiding coffee and alcohol, not watching a screen for a bit before bed, that pretty much covers all one needs to do to enhance their sleep. BUT I like data 😅 and if that gets me motivated to stick to the plan, perhaps it’s worth it and I would get graphs 😂
Good stuff as usual. Why we sleep changed my life too. Try also Exercised by Daniel Lieberman- an evolutionary perspective on what our body is already tuned to do by design. Lieberman also argues that we were not necessarily meant to get uninterrupted sleep every night because predators and fire-tending, so we should not worry that much when sleep is not totally smooth.
I wish they would have stayed away from a subscription model but still decided to order one. As a guy whose had cancer and diabetes who is very mindful of my health now, I feel this would be a big help to me. I can’t wear a watch all day, just isn’t comfortable to me.
Like you Mark, I know my body. Tomorrow if their is something that is off about me I can usually figure why and I also knew the day before I should or shouldn't had done that but did it anyway. I am only interested in monitoring my exercise amount, duration and intensity. The rest of my waking hours I need a device that is the equivalent of a drill sergeant that preemptively stops me from taking an action and structures my day that most benefits me
All the science points to the brain being the best source for readiness, fatigue state, etc. anyway, so you hit the nail on the head in that regard.
Having literally (as in 3 hours ago) just ordered a Fenix 6 based partly on your videos (feel free to forward this to Garmin..) I’m really glad this is not a ‘get a Oura ring rather than a Garmin’ video 😂
I would sell my kids before my Fenix - good choice!
Thanks for the review Mark, and all the other good stuff on the channel. There’s a few opinions online that suggest anywhere other than the index finger reduces the reliability of some of the data. My preference would be ring finger, and anywhere else, I just know I’d not be comfortable with it. DId you look into that aspect? Again, thanks.
Brilliantly presented bud 👌👍
Thanks 👍
Hate the subscription models, loved your video ! Saved me money 💰
Hey Mark. Great video. Wow, you’ve bulked out a bit since the last time I watched one of your videos. Looking great man.
Loved the video, one question however. All this info regarding sleep is great, whatever way you get that info. However what do we do with the data. You touched on it slightly in the video, going bed early. That can’t surely be the answer for all our sleepless night woes etc. I’ve toiled with wearing Fenix 6 and Apple Watch 6 for sleep tracking, thing is I know when my sleep is crap with or without a watch. I need some great advice on getting the best sleep.
I’ll listen to that podcast you recommend for one. Also I seem to remember I certainly slept better when I was plant based.
Keep up great work. I’ve now subscribed.
I think with a lot of this technology it gets thrown at the market because it exists and “because we can” rather than because we need it or there is a demand for it, and it takes a while before we can judge if it actually is useful or how. Personally I’m pretty skeptical of this or most other similar technology or at least it doesn’t really tackle the right problem - it’s a gimmick for the already-fit 5% rather than the not-fit 95% of the population that is the actual health issue that needs to be addressed. I’m also not convinced that giving us one more thing to stress over is actually mentally beneficial. Our mental health is worse than ever and I don’t think devices like this help, they take up mental energy and time that could be more productively spent, and harangue us electronically for “failing” (to rest, to sleep well, to get enough exercise).
I have to agree with the final assessment RE: whoop for fitness vs oura for wellness. I’ve been on the whoop since 2.0 and get a ton of use out of it. It’s not perfect but when paired paired with my garmin kit for workout tracking gives me almost everything I need. The report data and habits are excellent tools to assess and optimize your lifestyle and training.
Whoop 4.0 complaints:
- battery life could be better. Yes, the battery is small and recharges fast but it’s still a hassle.
- current strain tracking is limited to hrv which doesn’t really have a way to measure strain on the body from strength training, which can be huge if weightlifting is a large part of your regimen. (I heard they’re working on a fox for this)
- subscription model pricing is aggressive
✌️
Boy, at least with the Whoop strap there’s no device cost. These guys charge you more than the cost of a full Garmin 245 *plus* a $7 monthly fee (for those of us who’d be interested, but aren’t going to get lifetime app), all for a tiny ring that doesn’t go as deep as the watch? These companies are just crazy. Unfortunately, I’m starting to feel like it’s only a matter of time before Garmin starts charging a subscription as well….
If Garmin charged subs there would be uproar (although after the last couple of years, it seems people will put up with quite a bit before roaring so who knows!!!!!!)
Great video. I have a heart disease, I like to track my macros and sleep so guess this will be a great fit for me. Luke you, I'm extremely active and don't need any reminders in that department.
I just ride my bike,not interested in any of the electronic ripoff crap.
Mate you have me hooked,even when you are talking about this oral ring i just love listening to your descriptions and funny quips and subtle irony👍👍👍.
Great channel......start doing reviews on bikes,you may start getting £10,000 bikes delivered to your door for free!!😂😂
Facts. Keep the brain uncluttered of bs. Train intuitively. Kenyan runners are beasts without this bs.
Seems to me the podcast is the better way to go to improve my sleep behaviors, especially since I am someone who can be a bit data obsessive and already suffers from poor sleep. Good review though.
The podcast (in fact anything by Matthew Walker) is absolutely superb-highly recommended
Dude, I started to watch your stuff as I was looking for a Garmin watch - instinct 2 ended up the one. Thought I would drop a comment. I enjoy your presentation skill and format. Good work, thanks.
Thanks lee
Cardboard is fine art though!!! 🤣
Love my ring. Have to return it because I can’t get it to work with stress apps because Oura does not export HRV. Data to Apple Health.
Nice, and honest, review Mark. I am wearing the OURA Gen 3 right now and yeah, I am disappointed...
I’d probably recommend turning notifications off on the ring. Sounds like they’re more annoyance than help for you.
I was thinking of buying one and just sighed when you talked about their subscription shenanigans...
0:29 hahaha what a way to start the video. Love your sense of humor 😂
Enjoyed your presentation and content. I just ponied up for a Gen 3 though, caught a little off guard by the 'necessity' of the subscription model. Seems like Oura should discount the hardware if they're all about monetizing users monthly. I've been fit all my life however, at 65 and in grad school with the pandemic asa factor, I've been more sedentary than I'd like. Hopefully, I fall in to the majority group that finds value being present to the data as a motivating factor and not the just chap on the scale :-)
Follow up, the Oura site didn't 'error trap' my zip code and the sizing kit took 3 weeks to reach me. OK , stuff happens. I go to the web site to correct my profile and cannot do that, no access. I also couldn't confirm my order prior to pushing the button to ship it. OK - Customer support (using the term lightly) offered to do this manually and forwarded a .jpg of the rings, lol, AND... it was no longer funny when they said my choice was more $ and I'd have to cancel my order , start from scratch and pay the differential. My take at this point is, they should have comped the $ difference and sent my ring out. I cancelled my order as directed and have not re-ordered. Web site and Customer service needs to be top-notch to support a subscription model and sadly, they lack both. I'm open to being proven wrong but apparently fb is full of similar complaints.
Very helpful , logical, sensible and rational video. Much appreciated.
Thanks Mark. Yeah i had a woop, it was shit, and i was recently considering this ring but now i realise i don't really need it. I know i need more sleep. Simple. I do need the cheapest way to record runs to strava as I'm a cyclist considering running but that's it. Then I'll just look at the strain scores on strava.
Thanks a lot for this thoughtful review.
I have a Fitbit just to track my sleep I've been considering getting the ring but now that I found out you have to pay a monthly subscription I probably will just stay with my current device
Great video as always. On a side note, have you ever considered the super sapiens blood sugar monitors for some of your longer events? Even just to upload a similar ish video to this one on how you perceive how that tech can affect your approach to exercise etc.. It's quite expensive at the moment but seems to be an exciting new Avenue for sports tech.
It looks very cool and a company that provides 24 seven blood glucose monitoring has contacted me - might be looking at doing something over Christmas/New Year
Refreshing to hear some real experiences in the sea of blunt paid promotions. Glad you mentioned the power of gamification. I was already typing my comment :D:D - Also: having a physical reminder on the most noticeable spot you have is very powerful thing. In the end you paid quite a lot of money to getting better at something; so being reminded of that fact alone might be enough motivation to make concious decisions about something you would otherwise just do on a whim.
I had a v2 ring for covid and its claim to predict illness. I valued its input until it died - wouldn't come back from airplane mode the week Oura released the updated app for v3. After a lot of back and forth with support and long waits they actually comp'd me a v3 ring. I wouldn't pay Oura's (or Whoop's) subscription either but I'm very happy with the ring with an app that's free. I use Oura in airplane mode - so only for sleep data but in combo with iWatch, HRM and bike computer data that goes into Training peaks to fill out my annual training plan and monitor my fitness, fatigue and form.
Classic review as always Mark but what I would like to know is how does it deal with atrial fibrillation? Will it give accurate figures or like any other monitor be complete bollox ?
LOL! Dude, you're definitely entertaining, and informative. Totally appreciate your channel. As for the Oura....yeah I wasn't all that hot on the subscription model for the Whoop (which is why I've never considered owning one) and the Oura is no different! Besides my Fenix 6 is more than enough for what I need it for. Oh and thanks for the tips as well. I"ll try to eat earlier and stop watching videos in bed, as well as get to bed a little bit earlier. Thanks again.
Couldn't focus on anything but that nice mug sitting on the bench.
FYI I'm an oura 2 user, and we don't need to subscribe for any of the existing ring 2 features with the ring 2 (but you need to subscribe if you want to use ring 2 features on ring 3)
Hi Gen2 owner but missed the Cut off .. and they basically told me to bad
So bought Gen3 and got 6 months .. thanks for letting us know what we will NO LONGER be getting with no subscription.. sadly I don’t think so .. love the ring but I have an issue accessing my personal data via a subscription..
So after my free months … that will be it
Saddened that this was not made clear by Oura
Hopefully they have a change in policy
Thanks
I've been on the fence about this ring. A friend of mine suggested the Oura Ring 2, but I wanted the latest (and greatest) technology but as you pointed out, who wants to pay monthly for information that probably should already be included with purchase. I'll wait to see what happens next with this brand because I tried on the 2nd version and really liked it. In the meantime I'll be searching other brands to see who compares best. Also, I've been using Fitbit for years now and how cool it would be if they came out with a RING. 😉
My fenix 6 does body battery and sleep tracking. It works well enough for me to get a sense of what my body is doing, so I have no need for another device. But I can see that some people might find it valuable.
f...ing loved that not-product-placement from not Wahoo 😁😁
Thanks for sharing your experience!
I'm currently using a Amazfit T-Rex Pro. I must say: The sleep data and point system is surprisingly accurate, better than with my Garmin Vivoactive 4. But as you said: It's a big watch.
I thought about buying the oura ring, but the prize *AND* the membership fee is simply not worth it. So I will stick with my clunky cheap watch, which is good enough, even if not perfect :D
I was curious about the ring, heard about the subscription stuff and bought a competing brand instead. Subscription models have their place with some things..... but not everything should be subscription...
You should find out what Running "power meters" record if you wear them while cycling.
Keep in mind that Running and Cycling power are completely unrelated, and Running "power meters" mostly just estimate it from other data anyway. But I'm still curious about it.
I think it's good to combine with other sleep devices like the cove & neuvana.
Great review! Very real when it comes to if it is necessary or not!
Straight talk. Loved it. Thnx 💪
Nice video Mark. Tracking HRv using an optic sensor is pretty inacurate. If you want i can randomize numbers for you :). Use a wirst band and track your HARV daily with an app