Running without phone Fitbit inspire 3

[muzanamr]

Hi I wanted to buy the Fitbit inspire 3 but I mostly run without my phone, i already figuered out that is has a connected gps and not build in and it does not show a gps map and calculate distance through your steps while running. My questions are, when running without phone: 1)can you see your current pace at which you run while running? 2)does it show what distances you have covered so far in the run? 3)is the distance based on your steps somewhat accurate? Thank you in advance for your help.

[Julia_G]

Hi, @muzanamr , as you say, all distance metrics (including pace and distance so far) are estimated using step counts rather than GPS if you run without your phone.  The calculation formula is distance=stride length * steps.  You can see all these metrics in the centre of the exercise app by tapping the screen (the last metric chosen will remain until you tap again.  The options are Zone Minutes, pace, pace avg, heart rate, calories, steps, current time, distance so far, time in exercise so far.  The top and bottom stats are fixed (distance so far at top and time in exercise so far at the bottom).

Fitbit calculates your stride length automatically based on your height (and possibly age, weight and gender - Fitbit has not revealed the exact formula used).  However, if it is not accurate for you, you can change this setting in the app.  Instructions for doing that are here .  (Fitbit recommends doing an initial run using GPS to help you get the stride length correct - and don’t forget to sync your Fitbit whenever you make any changes in the app.)

Having said all that, it is likely that distance based on steps will not be as accurate as distance based on GPS.  If you would like to have a Fitbit with a built in GPS chip I would recommend the Charge 6.  With its larger screen you might also find it easier to see your stats while you run.  However, for day to day use I really like the Inspire 3 and for me the lack of GPS chip is not a deal breaker.

I hope this helps.  Welcome to the Community forums.