Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Before I bought this product, I read all the reviews on Amazon and had a few concerns. I bought it anyway and have been nothing but happy. My concerns were as follows: 1) There were some lousy reviews about customer service. I have had no problems whatsoever. I have addressed a question to customer service twice and received timely responses and effective fixes both times. I think it's possible that they took the feedback to heart and have improved. 2) There was at least one review that criticized the velcro on the strap; the instructions are very specific that you should use the velcro to set the initial size but, from then on, just use the elastic to pull it down your arm and off. It works, it's reasonable, and there is no wear and tear on the velcro. 3) There were some comments about accuracy; honestly, these mostly made me laugh. Yes, the Bodymedia product shows that I burn fewer calories on the elliptical than the elliptical says. It's not the Bodymedia device that is incorrect; those machines are notoriously incorrect and there has been no testing on them. There is no doubt in my mind which one to believe. My observations: 1) Wearing the armband has given me a much better idea of what activities burn more calories--it's not always what you think. I had been choosing the elliptical over an exercise DVD I have based on my perceived calorie burn (and not losing weight when I thought I should). Now, I know that the DVD gives me a much more effective workout and the weight is coming off. 2) It is motivational. I like to see the numbers go up. I like to beat my personal best. Maybe I should take the stairs. Maybe I'll get up from my desk once and hour and walk around the office. No, I don't mind going to the basement to get the sippy cup you left there... 3) It's not magic; you will not lose weight by wearing it. It's still hard work, but you get to see tangible results moment to moment. It's motivating and sustaining, but it won't work without lifestyle change.