Charge 3 - how to decrease the sensitivity of the step count

[MAHawkins]

Is there a way to decrease the sensitivity of the step count? Every time I move my hand it counts it as a step. 

Moderator edit: subject for clarity

[LiliyaFitbit]

Welcome to the Fitbit Community, @MAHawkins.

I appreciate your participation in the Forums and sharing your concern about a way to decrease the sensitivity of your step count since your device adds steps when you move your hands. I am glad to assist you with that.

Fitbit devices have a finely-tuned algorithm for step counting. The algorithm is designed to look for intensity and motion patterns that are most indicative of people walking and running. When working at a desk, cooking, or performing other activities with arm movements, a device on your wrist may add some steps. When you’re doing activities that involve arm movement—such as working or cooking—you often walk a few steps in-between stationary periods as well, so the device tries to give you credit for those steps. For most customers, the number of extra steps added by arm-based movement isn’t significant when compared to your overall stats. 

You can change the sensitivity of step counting by changing your wrist setting. The dominant wrist setting decreases the sensitivity of step counting and should reduce any over counting of steps when your body is not moving. You can change your wrist setting in the Fitbit app. For more information, see Does the wrist I wear my device on affect accuracy?

For more information about accuracy of Fitbit devices, please see this help article: How accurate are Fitbit devices?

If you have any questions, feel free to let me know.