Charge 3 is overcounting steps

[Lalliebob]

I've had my fitbit for a while and it's been pretty accurate but for the last week or so it seems to be more and more off. 

Today is the worst. 

It says I've done 1200 steps when I'm sure it was half that. 

Other days when I've gone for multiple long walks totally around 8 kilometres I got less steps on my fitbit that I do today. Even though I definitely didn't do as much. My arms haven't been flailing about too much or anything lol. I just don't understand where it's getting these steps from! 

Can I fix it?

Moderator edit: updated subject for clarity

[NellyG]

Hi @Lalliebob Try restarting yiur Charge 3 several times and see how it goes tomorrow.  Usually that fixes things. Fingers crossed.

Restart your tracker  

[MarreFitbit · Accepted solution]

Hi there @Lalliebob, welcome to the Community Forums. Thanks for the details provided about your Charge 3's step accuracy. 

Have you tried @NellyG's recommendation? For tips about improving accuracy, see: How accurate are Fitbit devices?

Several things can affect the number of steps your Fitbit device records, including where you place the device, if you wear it on your dominant or non-dominant hand, and your stride length. If you're pushing a stroller or shopping cart, try putting your device in your pocket or use GPS to record your activity, if possible.

If it still seems like your device is overcounting steps, try a step test. While you perform your step test, make sure you: 

-Walk at a normal pace
-Don’t hold anything in your hands
-Put your arms down at your sides, swinging naturally
-Count 1 step for each foot
-To avoid getting an additional step when you bring your feet together, after you reach 100 steps:
1. Freeze in a split-stance. 
2. Move your hand up gently to check the step count on your device.  

Here’s the step test:

1. Restart your Fitbit device. 
2. Put your device on your wrist or put your clip-on device on your hip or torso.
3. Walk 100 steps, making sure to count a step each time one of your feet touches the ground.
4. Pause, then check your device to see your step count, and write down the number of steps you took and the number of steps your device counted. 
5. Perform the test 2 more times, walking 100 steps 3 different times. Each time, write down the number of steps you took and the number your device counted. 

Let us know if you need further assistance.