Cross-trainer workout - inaccurate heat rate and distance

[katies286]

I have had my Fitbit Surge for almost a year now. It measures my HR and the distance covered accurately when I am running and walking, but when I use the cross-trainer both of these measurements are wildly inaccurate. 

When on the cross-trainer, it registers my HR no higher than 100/110 beats per minute. I know from the way I feel and the HR monitor on the machine that my HR is about 150/160. Why is there such a big difference? 

My Surge has also started widly overestimating the distance I cover during a cross-trainer workout. Over 30 mins on the cross-trainer I cover on average about 2-2.5km (according to the machine). During my last session, my Fitbit registered approx. 6-7 miles over 30 mins! This is certainly far from accurate. Has anyone had a similar issue and does anyone know if there is a way to make it more accurate? 

Many thanks!

[VivisFitbit]

Welcome to the Community @katies286! This is interesting. The heart rate readings you get from your Surge may also be impacted by the position of your hands, for example if you grip the handles or if you perform any other activity where you clench your hands. 

Getting more accurate readings will be possible by positioning your your HR tracker in a better way or higher up on your arm.

Keep me posted!