Charge 5 tracked steps even when I didn't move

[Scottfairfield]

So, I was ill and never left my bed for 24 hours, yet I've registered 4000+ steps and over 1.6 miles.

It is also over 1000 steps and at least 1/2 a mile a day out over Google fit figures.

Any suggestions?

Moderator Edit: Clarified subject

[ManuFitbit]

Welcome to the forums @Scottfairfield.

Thank you for sharing the details regarding those steps recorded.

If you haven't done so already, please complete a three pulse restart and let me know if you continue to experience the same behavior afterwards: 

1. Connect your device to the charging cable. For instructions, see How do I charge my Fitbit device?
2. Press the button located on the flat end of the charger 3 times, pausing for 1 second between presses. Then wait 10 seconds or until the Fitbit logo appears.

If you continue to have this problem, let me know if you have MobileTrack installed on the Fitbit app. This feature allows you to record basic stats such as steps using your phone's sensors. That being said, if there was a fan or something vibrating nearby, that might be the reason why you receive these extra amount of steps. Assuming this is correct, I'd recommend removing it by doing the following:

1. Open the Fitbit app and tap your profile picture.
2. Tap MobileTrack:
   For iOS devices, scroll down and tap the option to remove the device.
   For Android devices, tap the trash icon at the upper right corner.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove it from your account.
4. Continue using your Charge 5 and let me know how it goes.

[Scottfairfield]

Don't have mobile track installed and there is no buttons to press on the magnetic charger.

-------

There are no buttons on the charger and I don't have 'mobile track' installed.

I clicked best answer/worked for me by accident

[RiekoC]

Hello @Scottfairfield 

I was able to uncheck the best answer for you. 

Regarding the instructions to reset the device, there is a small inset button on one side of the USB end of the charging cable that came with your Charge 5. See picture below:

Mobile Track is an option you can install in your Fitbit app. Since you don't see it in the app, that can be eliminated as a potential factor. 

As for why you got steps while you were sick in bed, this might help explain the reason (from How accurate are Fitbit devices page)

Why does my Fitbit device count extra steps?

Fitbit devices have a finely-tuned algorithm for step counting. The algorithm is designed to look for intensity and motion patterns that are most indicative of people walking and running. When working at a desk, cooking, or performing other activities with arm movements, a device on your wrist may add some steps. When you’re doing activities that involve arm movement—such as working or cooking—you often walk a few steps in-between stationary periods as well, so the device tries to give you credit for those steps. For most customers, the number of extra steps added by arm-based movement isn’t significant when compared to your overall stats. For more information, see How does my Fitbit device calculate my daily activity?

Although you were in bed while sick, your device must have picked up movement which it tracked as steps. However, I'm not sure what to recommend to improve the step accuracy. I often get extra steps when I do activities like folding laundry and doing the dishes. 

[Scottfairfield]

Thank you for this, I understand its not going to be precise, but to be this far our doesn't give me a lot of confidence in the device going forward, but I thank you for your efforts.

[RiekoC]

You're welcome, @Scottfairfield . I just wish I had a better answer for you. 

If you decide to investigate other health trackers, you might be interested in checking out The Quantified Scientist YouTube channel. He evaluates health trackers & smartphones for accuracy by testing them against various scientific equipment.