Understanding Recent Changes in Fitbit Data Display
- Steven Cooper
As of late August 2024, Fitbit has adjusted its algorithm for calculating metrics such as calories burned, distance, and times in heart rate zones. These changes may result in metric values that are much higher or lower than anticipated. Usually, these sorts of values can be explained by the personal information the user has stored in their Fitbit user profile.
Why are calories burned, distance, and/or time in heart rate zones values different than I expect?
Fitbit devices estimate your users’ calories burned by combining their basal metabolic rate (BMR) with their activity data. BMR is calculated using the Fitbit profile information, including height, weight, sex, and age. It's important to have users make sure that this information is entered accurately in their Fitbit account, as it significantly impacts the calorie calculations. If their device tracks heart rate, this data is also incorporated, especially when estimating calories burned during exercise.
To ensure the most accurate calorie burn, distance, and time in heart rate zone estimations:
Have the user verify and update their Fitbit profile: Confirm that their height, weight, sex, and age are correct in their Fitbit account settings. See https://support.google.com/fitbit/answer/14236616?sjid=16936490723788951099-NA
Utilize the Exercise app: For activities like spinning or yoga where step count might not accurately reflect intensity, the user should consider using the Exercise app on their Fitbit device to track workouts and capture real-time heart rate data.
Consider GPS tracking: If the user frequently engages in activities where their arm movement is restricted, such as pushing a stroller or holding a dog leash, using GPS tracking can improve distance and calorie burn calculations.
If users continue to have trouble tracking these metrics, please have them reach out to the Fitbit community for assistance: The Fitbit Community
Questions Validic clients may receive that are connected to this
Why am I seeing very large or very small calories burned?
Why am I seeing negative time in heart rate zones?
Why is my distance incorrect?