Fitbit for the treadmill?

[tunoktu5]

I’ll be getting most of my steps from the treadmill. Do you feel that the Fitbit is the most accurate tracker for steps? I already have a polar chest strap for my heart rate and calories since that’s the most accurate (that I’ve found). Thanks!

[JohnnyRow]

First, it seems to me like a strange approach to be taking your data from different sources.  I wonder if you plan to be daily logging all your data from different sources into a separate spreadsheet, or what?  And it sounds like you might just be interested in tracking your workouts, rather than all-day stats, as most people don't like to wear chest straps 24/7.  So if you are just tracking your workouts, I don't understand why you would care about number of steps.

If steps are truly the only data you would want from it, and if you would be wearing it only during treadmill workouts, would affect what might be appropriate for you, and the accuracy for your purpose.

[RiekoC]

Hello @tunoktu5 

This help page (<-- click link) describes how Fitbit devices track steps. As you can see, like other wrist worn health trackers, it uses arm movement to help track steps.

If you use the handrails during your treadmill workout, you'll see less steps since your arms aren't moving. Some users will attach their Fitbit devices to their ankle to track steps when doing workouts where they don't move their arms as much, like treadmill.