How does Fitbit track Steps?
As a fitness freak, I’m always finding ways to improve my physical activity and reach my fitness goals. Fit has been a critical tool in helping me achieve these goals and tracks my steps throughout the day. You may wonder, how does Fitbit follow steps?
It uses a 3-axis accelerometer to measure the body’s movements and determine whether you’re taking steps. But it’s not just about counting steps. Fitbit also considers the intensity of your movements and uses this information to calculate your active minutes. Using a Fitbit to track the steps will be a game-changer for your fitness routine. Not only is it fun, but also engaging to see the progress throughout the day. It keeps you motivated and accountable for your goals.
In this article, I will discuss the advanced technology behind Fitbit’s step-tracking capabilities, assess its accuracy and offer practical tips on optimizing your Fitbit device to get the most out of it!
Table of Contents
Fitbit’s Step Tracking Technology
The technology Fitbit uses to track steps is a 3-axis accelerometer. It is a tiny sensor that measures movement in three directions: up and down, side to side, and forward and backward. The accelerometer is located inside the Fitbit device and uses algorithms to detect when you take a step. When you move, the accelerometer detects the change in the speed and direction of the movement, which helps to determine the step. Overall, the accelerometer accurately measures physical activity, like the no. of steps you take; distance traveled, and no of calories burnt.
How Does Fitbit Use Algorithms to Track Steps?
Although Fitbit devices have a 3-axis accelerometer, it is not always reliable at distinguishing between steps and other arm movements. Here’s where Fitbit uses innovative algorithms. Fitbit uses a finely tuned step-counting algorithm that analyzes the motion patterns and identifies steps based on movement data from the accelerometer.
1. Eliminates False Positives in Step Tracking
The accelerometer is effective in comprehending the movement; it can also count false positives. For example, it may count arm movements during typing or cooking as steps. To eliminate false positives, Fitbit applies additional algorithms that analyze the motion patterns and differentiate between steps and other arm movements.
2. Calculate Stride Length & Calories Burned
Fitbit also tracks stride length, the distance between each step you take. It estimates stride length based on height and gender. But the Fitbit app can also manually adjust your stride length and calories burned. This information estimates the distance traveled and the calories burned during the activity.
3. Monitor Arm Movement
Fitbit devices use arm movement to track your number of steps. It tracks steps by monitoring your arm movement. When a person walks, the arm moves in a particular way, which the device’s 3-axis accelerometer detects. The device then uses the step-counting algorithm to calculate how many steps have been taken.
Fitbit’s Active Minute Tracking Technology
Like step tracking, Fitbit also uses active minutes tracking to monitor the minutes you spend doing moderate to vigorous physical activity. It is a more accurate measurement of overall physical activity than just counting steps, as they take into account the intensity of one’s movements. Fitbit uses the accelerometer to measure your movement’s intensity and classify it as moderate or vigorous to record your active minutes. Activities like running, cycling, and swimming are strong, while brisk walking and dancing are moderate.
How Can You connect Fitbit to track steps?
If you are new to Fitbit and want to connect your Fitbit device to track steps. It is a quick and easy process. Here are the steps to follow:
- Download & install the Fitbit app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Create a Fitbit account or sign in if you already have one.
- Follow the instructions to pair your Fitbit device with the smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth. Make sure your device’s Bluetooth is turned on.
- Once paired, the Fitbit app will automatically sync with your device and begin tracking your steps.
If the Fitbit device is older, it may require a wireless cable to connect to your computer or laptop. In this case, insert the cable into the computer’s USB port and follow the instructions to connect your device.
How Accurate is Fitbit’s Step Tracking Technology?
Fitbit’s step-tracking technology accuracy is one of the common concerns. While it’s not 100% accurate, the technology is generally reliable. However, some factors like Stride length, detection threshold, motion patterns, and other movement data can affect step-tracking accuracy. For example, when pushing a stroller or a shopping cart, the device may count these movements as steps. It could result in an inflated step count. Similarly, if you’re carrying something, it may incorrectly detect movement and count it as steps giving inaccurate data.
Wear Fitbit on the non-dominant wrist for best results, with the display facing outwards. Additionally, you can improve the accuracy of your step tracking by adjusting your stride length in the Fitbit app.
How Can You Get the Most out of Fitbit’s step tracking?
You can perform simple actions to ensure your Fitbit device accurately tracks your steps. One way is to wear the watch on your non-dominant wrist. It can help improve the accuracy of your step count. Additionally, if you engage in activities that don’t involve walking, you can manually enter your steps into the Fitbit app. To check your daily step count, open the Fitbit app on the device. Get to the account page, and you’ll see how many steps you’ve taken and the distance you’ve traveled.
If you want to maximize the lifespan of your Fitbit device, it’s essential to take care of it properly. This includes keeping it clean and dry, not exposing it to extreme temperatures, and charging regularly. To learn more about how to extend the lifespan of your Fitbit, check out our article on “How Long Do Fitbit Devices Last?“
Final Thoughts
Fitbit is an excellent tool for tracking your daily activity. It uses innovative technology and advanced algorithms to track your movement patterns and provide an accurate step count. When you know the technology behind Fitbit’s step-tracking system, you can use your device to its fullest potential and get the most out of it. However, like any other electronic device, it is only sometimes perfect and may result in some inaccuracies. You can follow the simple steps I have given to improve its accuracy.
If you want to learn more about Fitbit devices, we invite you to explore our other articles on related topics. Let’s find information on how much Fitbit devices cost and how to charge your Fitbit without a charger.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Fitbit track steps if you are not walking?
Fitbit does track steps even if you are not walking. There may be some inaccuracies. For example, pushing a stroller or shopping cart may be counted as steps. However, Fitbit’s step-counting algorithm is designed to filter out false positives.
2. Does Fitbit track steps on a treadmill?
Yes, Fitbit does track steps on a treadmill. However, some factors, such as the speed and incline of the treadmill, as well as the type of shoe you are wearing, affect the accuracy of step tracking.
3. Can You edit or delete the daily activity data on Fitbit?
Yes, you can edit or remove your daily activity data on Fitbit. To edit or delete a specific activity, open the Fitbit app, tap the “Today” tab, and find the activity you want to edit or delete. Remember that once you delete an activity, it cannot be recovered.
