Cardio Score Never Changes

[murcan]

I workout almost daily and vary runs and walks with over 15K steps a day over the last few months. About two months ago, my cardio score went to a line instead of a range and has not changed since. I’ve read other forums where the fix seems to be to use device GPS then do a few runs. I’ve done that and other recommendations but the score is still unchanged. Please let me know what to try next. Thanks. 

[Wibby]

Hello @murcan 

I hope I’m understanding your meaning and that you’re talking about a line pointing to a number.

Having  a precise number is the goal of using GPS with runs.  You get a range (which isn’t as good), when you’re not using it for runs.

In my case, the goal is to get a specific number.  I don’t usually use GPS so eventually my score changes to a range instead.  Then I start using GPS on my jogs to get a precise number again.

If you tap on the Cardio Fitness screen then Learn More, it opens up a whole lot of topics you can tap on to find out how it’s calculated and how to improve it etc.

While you have a precise number if you expand the screen by touching the arrows at the top it will tell you how much you could improve your score by increasing exercise or losing/gaining weight.  It’s really interesting.

 I hope that helps a bit.

[murcan]

Thank you, that is helpful. My broader problem is that score has remain unchanged while using GPS on my Fitbit for almost a month now. It's confusing that it used to change frequently and now never. Any insights you have there will be greatly appreciated!

[Wibby]

Hello again @murcan 

I don't know exactly why it hasn't changed, whether it's a bug or something, but it's taking longer than usual for me to get a number from using GPS rather than the estimated range.

In your case, you said you have a number but it hasn't changed.  Have your stats changed much or are you at a plateau?  As it measures it based on age, weight (maybe body fat), gender, resting heart rate and recent sleep, if they haven't changed much that might account for the score staying the same.

This is just a guess and if you've lost lots of weight in the last month or your resting heart rate has dramatically decreased, then my theory is wrong and it's a bug. 

The way I've been using it is getting a number and when it switches to a range, using GPS for a while until I get a number again and then stopping using GPS.  This is because the GPS uses up the battery and I do the same route every time so don't need a map.  I'm doing it purely to get the score.  The number I get stays the same for a month or so and then changes to a range when it's been a while, and then I need the GPS jogs to change it back to a number again.

I've never continued with the GPS after getting the number so don't know if it changes a lot or remains static, so can't tell you for sure, but there may well be some people who have been using GPS regularly who might have noticed the numbers and may jump in.

I hope that helps a bit.

Edited to add:

I just swiped to the next screen on my fitness level screen and the next screen says I could improve my score by up to 20% over time if I increase the intensity of my workouts. The following screen shows me how much I could increase my score I reached my target weight (if done healthily) and the final screen shows the ultimate athlete's score in comparison to mine.

Maybe you should check and see what changes or potential improvements it suggests for you.