This is simpy a vent/rant post to free myself of the frustration that has been Fitbit. Several years ago, I had what was the perfect fitness tracking band. The Garmin VivoSport, with just the right amount of fitness metrics, solid HR monitor and built-in GPS. It's weakness was a NON-replaceable strap--and the straps wear out. I am a watch wearer--you know, the old analog type watches that you sometimes have to wind up by hand--I'm quite fond of my watch collection so for this reason I don't want a "smart-watch", I want a discrete band to wear on my other wrist. SO, my ONLY option today is the Fitbit Charge 5, which on paper seems great. In practice it's been nothing but disappointment, after disappointment, after disappointment. The HR monitoring has been unreliable since day one. The little graphics that pop-up on this screen (with like fireworks or whatever), like when you reach some goal are sophomoric and seem to be geared towards children. But yesterday was the last straw for me. I frequent a paved trail, which is a beautiful 5 miles of hilly terrain through the woods. I start out by running to the 1/2 way point and back for 5 miles of running, then I get on my bike and bike to the end and back for 10 miles of biking. Yesterday, the GPS for my run was mostly good, but when I started my bike ride, my GPS would simply not lock despite clear skies overhead w/no clouds. I restarted the device 3 times, switched GPS modes multiple times and of course, this DEFINTELY detracted from my workout! I did not want or need a break from run to bike. It's really just unacceptable. Guess I sell this thing for whatever I can get and if I can get lucky find a STILL NEW Garmin Vivosport--or else will get a Garmin "smart-watch" and only wear it during my workouts.
Moderator edit: clarified subject.
