Differences in Exercise Modes

[stevk]

Hi There,

What the differences in tracking when setting the surge to start logging a particular exercise? Also, are there definitions/descriptions as to what each "type" of exercise tracking is meant for?

I think it is self explanatory for the walking, elliptical, and spinning modes. However, what are the differences between weights, workout, circuit training, and bootcamp? I do various types of exercises and want to be sure that my surge would be able to track the correct exercises accuractely. 

For example, if I go to a group fitness class that is more Tabata/body weight exercise-based, would this be a workout, circuit training, or bootcamp?

[DerrickS]

Hi @stevk,

I'd recommend using the weights Surge shortcut for when you are lifting weights, bootcamp for military-style workouts and cross functional like squats and push-ups, circuit training for body conditioning using high-intensity aerobics, and then workout for anything that isn't covered in the exercise shortcuts.

Some of the bigger differences is that some shortcuts use GPS and heart rate. I don't know the specifics on Tabata/body weight exercises, but from what I've read about it, I'd personally go with circuit training.

Hope this helps!

[ktastic312]

This is the only explanation of the differences between the less self-explanatory modes I've found and I'm still a bit confused. Typically the exercise sessions I am unclear on consist of many of these elements. High intensity cardio and aerobics interspersed with strength training (weights and/or bodyweight). I've been using Bootcamp mode for these as we often incorporate squats, pushups, lunges etc. but this is again broken up with running, burpees, high knees, etc. 

Should I just be using Workout mode since it is overlapping? I haven't been able to find an explanation about WHAT is actually being computed differently based on the selection to then deicde what might be appropriate. Maybe the difference in tracking is so marginal it doesn't matter? I am just eager to ensure I am getting the best statistics I can! 

[Puffer_David]

I have a similar problem. It's been a week now that I've had my Blaze which is great but not sure about what to choose for my work outs. My workout usually involves a boxing speed bag, heavy bag, double ended bag, kettle bell weigh training, suspension and more. I think it's been counting my punching as walking. I'm just not sure what settings to use. Kick boxing/Bootcamp? Or a way to turn of step counting with specific exercises? There should be more clarification with what each setting does and does not do.

[Beautybelle15]

Derrick,

Thank you for your input. I've been wondering the same as I follow the Barre method and never know which workout mode to select on my Fitbit. Can you please clarify what you know to be the differences between the workout modes? Does it matter whether I select workout or weights?

Jessica 

[dptxny]

Pretty sure its meaningless outside of running and cycling. I think cycling auto-guesses some equivalent steps, running will try and track things like speed. Weights and others don't do anything special from what I've seen.  

I'm sure if Fitbit had a real answer, we'd have one.