Versa 2 is not tracking my distance accurately

[KylaNahnoKerche]

When I walk my kids to school I know that the exact distance is .5 miles (so one mile round trip) when I track with my fitbit it's always a) way less than a mile and b) never the same distance. What's up with that?

Moderator Edit: Clarified subject

[MarreFitbit]

Hi there, @KylaNahnoKerche. Welcome to the Community Forums. Thanks for the details provided in your post about the issue with your Versa 2. I understand where your concern is coming from. 

Please note Fitbit Versa 2 uses the formula below to calculate distance. Your stride length is determined by your height and sex. Steps x Stride Length = Distance Traveled

Please note when you track an activity with GPS, your device calculates your distance using GPS data rather than steps. If you begin moving before you get a GPS signal, your device calculates distance using your steps until GPS connects.

To update your stride length, track a run with GPS or measure your stride length manually. For more information, see Can I change my stride length in my Fitbit account?

For more information about GPS, see: How do I use GPS on my Fitbit device?

[Odyssey13]

Hi @KylaNahnoKerche  one thing to add to what @MarreFitbit posted. These are wrist based devices and rely on your arm movements in order to get those steps counted. I know if I'm pushing a cart or holding something close and not moving the arm, my step count is lower than when I'm able to freely swing that arm. Not sure if you're holding any hands on the walk or carrying a bag, but it could be you'll want to experiment on how free the arm is that holds that Versa 2.

[KylaNahnoKerche]

Ahhh, that's a very good point! I am pushing a stroller! So that's probably
the reason. Thanks!

[Odyssey13]

@KylaNahnoKerche  you can add those steps back in, if you know how many there were. Add it as a walk. click to learn how. The added steps won't count towards any challenges you're in, but they do add to your step count.