[Learn More] How the Fitbit stress test function works and how we tested it (Part 2)

[LeticiaFitbit]

Hi Fitbit Community,

Stress management can be well… stressful. In part one of this blog series we discussed how the Fitbit stress detection and Body Temperature works. Now we’re here to explain how the Stress test was tested itself. 

How we did it

Participants took part in a controlled social stress test, when they were studied through a mock “dream job” interview and a surprise math test. Three “judges” also watched them throughout the virtual lab, adding to the social pressure. Sounds stressful, right?

We used the data gleaned from this test to train the Body Response algorithm, a classical machine learning algorithm that identifies periods when the participants showed physiological signs of autonomic arousal.

To verify the Body Response algorithm works in real-life scenarios and not just in a lab, we then conducted a study where participants wore prototype Sense 2 devices during their “normal lives” for one week, logging their stress levels at various times. We verified our algorithm could identify those periods of logged stress.

Try it for yourself 

Stress both impacts and is impacted by other areas of life, including how we feel physically, emotionally and of course, mentally. So the next time you’re working hard to manage stress, remember the Body Response feature is working hard to help you, too.

Try out the stress test feature then join the discussion and tell us about your experience.

The Fitbit Team