How does the Sense track steps?

[albstaten]

I used to have a Fitbit waaaaay long time ago, when it was just a little clip with the flowers. Now I’m back, and had question but can’t figure it out from the manual.

For the Fitbit Sense, how does it track steps? Is it by arm movement or GPS? For example if you’re pushing a stroller, do you still need to be swinging your arm to get steps?

Thanks!

Moderator Edit: Clarified subject

[SteveH · Accepted solution]

It tracks steps by detecting movement of the fitbit i.e. your wrist, and then working out whether that movement was the result of a step or just random arm movement.

Pushing a stroller or shopping trolley, or even using a treadmill and holding the rails causes issues as your wrist is not moving in a way that suggests you are walking.

[SueCinMI]

So is that a Yes, it still tracks while pushing an item (stroller, mower, shopping cart)  ??