From regular abusive texts to Twitter food diaries, dieting has become big business as we search for a way to lose those extra pounds.But a new gadget from Philips could mean that your boss is kept up to date on your exercise habits.
The tiny gadget, called DirectLife, is worn around the neck and measures the user's exercise habits. When it has finished measuring the quantity and intensity of an employee's exercise regime, the information is relayed back to a central computer, enabling employers to keep track of their fitness.
The product is being trialled in some 30 US companies and tests employees on their stair or lift, walk or drive choices.
But why would your boss want to know such things? Well, according to Philips, some 50 per cent of the US population are not getting enough daily exercise and it's costing American companies thousands on health care.
Philips say that the technology will "increase productivity – [and] contain health care costs," while in controlled trials "a significant reduction in absenteeism" was reported.
Don't worry just yet folks – the product is currently only available in the Netherlands and the US.
Let us know what you think. Is this a useful tool or just another step towards a Big Brother culture?
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