Versa battery draining during exercise mode

[Ladyecho3]

I am training for a half marathon (walking) and would like to use my fitbit to track my exercise during my training (usually use a garmin for training). I have to keep track of my heart rate especially during exercise (per Dr recommendation) now because of recent diagnosed condition.   The garmin uses a separate band which I do not have great success with.  I used it last weekend for my 8 mile training walk and with in the 1st hour the battery was dead. The screen on my versa was constantly saying "connecting".  I really like the exercise function as it gives me my pace  distance, and heart rate.  I am sure it is in the way I have settings set up, but what do I need to turn off to make the battery more efficient?  The half marathon usually takes me 3 1/2 hours, so I need my fitbit to last 5 to 6 hours. 

Thanks

[Ladyecho3]

Would really like help on this issue

[kcronin · Accepted solution]

@Ladyecho3 While it's true that the Connected GPS feature doesn't work well and the Versa loses connection with the phone resulting in the "connecting" message, your Versa battery should be lasting longer than you are experiencing.  I'm wondering if you have the "Always On Screen" feature turned on?  This does really consume a lot of battery.

If you aren't exercising does your battery last for a good bit?  If not then perhaps you need to contact Fitbit regarding your Versa not having the battery life expected.

Since the Connected GPS feature isn't going to give you information that's accurate enough for your training see Connected GPS threads), I would suggest that you track your run through the Fitbit app on your phone instead and, choose a Fitbit Clock face that shows your heart rate front and center so you can see it during your run.  You won't be able to see your pace or distance on your wrist, however.

Look at threads on this forum regarding Connected GPS for suggestions on how to improve the accuracy of the tracking if you decide that you need to see your stats on your wrist in real-time while training.

[Maribethsizemor]

Love how it won't let me answer. I do boot camps everyday. By the time I'm done 2 hrs my battery is dead. I seriously thinking of going to apple. 3 times a charm.