Calibration of Miles Walked

[GasWil]

I have been walking with a neighbor who has a tracking app.  I have noticed that my calibration of distances on our walks to be wildly at variance to her app on her phone.  I believe my Flex readings are misleading. Possible problem is it is on my non-dominant hand and I do have dog leash on same hand. We trained dog who does not tug on leash.  Just wondering what diagnosis is suggested?

GasWil

[Rich_Laue]

@GasWil but do you know who is right? Your comparing a unknown device with another unknown device. 

Your Flex does not count distance, it counts steps. To determine distance Fitbit takes the step count and multiplies these by the users stride setting. 

First step would be to check the accuracy of the step count, especially if it is on the arm holding the leash. 

You will want to setup your stride. 

See the last question in the FAQ

How does my Fitbit device calculate my daily activity?

By knowing True Distance, Fitbit reported distance, and current stride your true stride may be easily calculated. 

[GasWil]

Great suggestions.

Wonder how I clibrate my stride???

[Rich_Laue]

I answered that in my post above. 

First figure the true distance. 

Then note the distance Fitbit recorded and your stride setting. 

Post these three. 

The formula. 

TrueStride = CurrentStride(TrueDistance/FitbitReportedDistance)

[GasWil]

Thanks

[GasWil]

Thanks for your help.  At first I did not get it.  BUT upon digging a bit further  - I adjusted my stride length and it is one the way to better calibration.  By the way, I don't think the dog leash had any effect ast my dog is well behaved and did not change my arm/body movements.More to come but better. Thanks