Treadmill vs. Walking setting

[rebeccaTM]

I think my first post made a weird link that doesn't show my whole question. So here we go again:

Whether it’s my non-existent fitness level, my advancing age, or the somewhat rickety nature of my small treadmill, I have to keep my hands resting on the handlebars. Not gripping and supporting myself…just resting to keep from keeling over. Based on that, which will more accurately capture my efforts: Treadmill or Walking setting?

Moderator edit: Clarified Subject

[DavidFitbit]

Hi @rebeccaTM, welcome to the Fitbit Community! It's great to have you here!

I appreciate the time you have taken to consult in regards to the activity you need to set on your Charge 6 in order to better track your activity according to your needs.

While keeping your hands resting on the handlebars of the treadmill will count your steps inaccurately, treadmill is the best option for you to choose.

For more information about this topic, see How accurate are Fitbit devices? > Will my device count steps if my arms aren't moving?

[LZeeW · Accepted solution]

@rebeccaTM   I think the information shared in the link is extremely misleading.  "Might" undercount your steps couldn't be further from the truth.  Having both hands on the handrails significantly undercounts steps to the point where some users get no steps at all.

It is my understanding that the Treadmill shortcut uses your profile walking stride length in its steps X stride length distance calculation.  You might need to hold on to just one handrail and let the Fitbit arms swing to get steps.

[rebeccaTM]

Thank you! I'm starting to think I should NOT choose either and just let the fitbit count my steps...uncategorized!