If you’re a regular elliptical user, you probably want your workout data tracked accurately. You might be wondering, does Fitbit work on elliptical machines? The short answer is yes, but getting the best results requires a bit of know-how. This guide will explain how to make your Fitbit count your elliptical sessions correctly, from choosing the right setting to troubleshooting common issues.
Does Fitbit Work On Elliptical
Fitbit devices are designed to track a wide variety of exercises, and the elliptical is included. Most modern Fitbits have a dedicated “Elliptical” workout mode you can select. This mode optimizes the device’s sensors to better interpret the specific motion of an elliptical trainer, which is different from walking or running. Using this mode is key for getting the most accurate calorie burn, heart rate, and step count data for your session.
How to Track Elliptical Workouts on Your Fitbit
To ensure your Fitbit records your effort properly, follow these steps. It’s a simple process that makes a big difference in your data accuracy.
- On your Fitbit device, navigate to the Exercise app. It’s often labeled “Exercise” or has a stopwatch icon.
- Scroll through the list of exercise options until you find “Elliptical.” Some older models might list it under “Workout” or “Sports.”
- Tap to select the Elliptical mode. You may need to press and hold the button or tap the screen to start the timer.
- Begin your workout. Your Fitbit will now track your time, heart rate, calories, and steps specifically for this activity.
- When you’re finished, press the button or tap the screen to end the workout. The data will save automatically to your Fitbit app.
Why the Elliptical Mode Matters
You might think your daily step count is enough, but the elliptical mode is more precise. The motion your arm makes on an elliptical’s handlebars is often shorter and more rigid than a natural walking swing. If you’re not holding the handles, your arm might be stationary. The dedicated mode uses your heart rate and the rhythm of the motion to estimate effort and steps more accurately than the standard step counter alone.
Without this mode, your Fitbit might undercount your steps and miscalculate calories. For the best data, always remember to start the Elliptical workout on your device. It only takes a second and ensures your hard work is counted.
Getting Accurate Step Counts on the Elliptical
Step count accuracy is a common concern. Since your feet don’t leave the pedals, how does it count steps? Fitbit’s elliptical mode uses an algorithm based on your arm motion (if swinging) and the intensity of your movement. Here’s how to improve accuracy:
- If possible, swing your arms naturally instead of holding the static handles. This provides a motion signal similar to walking.
- Make sure your Fitbit is worn correctly—snug on your wrist, about a finger’s width above your wrist bone.
- If you’re not holding the handles, try putting your device into a pocket or clipping a compatible tracker to your hip. This can sometimes capture the leg motion better.
Remember, the step count on the elliptical is an estimate. The primary metrics to focus on are active minutes, heart rate, and calories burned, which are very reliable in workout mode.
What If Your Model Doesn’t Have an Elliptical Mode?
Some older Fitbit models, like the Zip or early Flex versions, may not have a specific elliptical option. Don’t worry, you can still track your workout. Simply use the “Workout” or “Aerobic Workout” mode if available. This will still prioritize heart rate and calorie tracking over step counting.
Alternatively, you can manually log the exercise later in the Fitbit app. Go to the Exercise tile, tap the “+” sign, and log “Elliptical” with the duration and calories if you know them. While not as automatic, it keeps your exercise history complete.
Syncing and Reviewing Your Elliptical Data
After your workout, sync your device with the Fitbit app to see the full breakdown. The app provides a detailed summary that is incredibly useful for tracking progress.
- You’ll see your total exercise duration and the time spent in different heart rate zones (Fat Burn, Cardio, Peak).
- Check your average and peak heart rate during the session.
- Review the estimated calories burned, which is more accurate in exercise mode than the general daily count.
- Note the step count attributed specifically to the elliptical workout.
Tracking this data over time lets you see your fitness improve. You might notice you can maintain a higher heart rate zone for longer or burn more calories in the same amount of time. This feedback is motivating and proves your workouts are effective.
Troubleshooting Common Fitbit and Elliptical Problems
Sometimes things don’t work perfectly. Here are solutions to frequent issues people encounter.
- Low Step Count: This is the most common complaint. As mentioned, try swinging your arms. Also, ensure the Elliptical mode is actually selected, not just the general step tracker.
- Inaccurate Heart Rate: Make sure the back of the device is in contact with your skin and the band is snug. Very loose or very tight bands can mess with the sensor. Also, tattoos or dark skin pigmentation can occasionally interfere.
- Workout Not Auto-Recognizing: SmartTrack (auto-exercise recognition) might not always catch elliptical sessions, especially if they’re under 15 minutes. Get in the habit of manually starting the mode for consistency.
- Device Sliding on Handlebars: If you grip the handles, your Fitbit might press against the metal and register false button presses. You can try wearing it a bit higher on your wrist or slightly rotating the face.
If problems persist, try restarting your Fitbit. A simple restart clears minor glitches and is often the fastest fix.
Comparing Fitbit Models for Elliptical Training
All current Fitbits track elliptical workouts, but some models offer extra features that are helpful. Devices like the Fitbit Charge 6, Versa 4, and Sense 2 have built-in GPS, but that’s not needed for indoor elliptical training. What matters more is the ease of accessing the exercise mode and the clarity of the heart rate data on screen.
Models with larger, touchscreen displays (like the Versa series) make it easier to tap and select the Elliptical mode mid-workout if you forget to start it. Basic models like the Inspire series still track it perfectly well, you just might have fewer stats visible on the device itself during the exercise.
Maximizing Your Fitness Goals with Elliptical Data
Your Fitbit’s data is a tool to help you reach your goals. Use the information from your elliptical workouts to make informed decisions. For example, if your goal is weight management, focus on the calories burned and try to gradually increase your workout duration or intensity. If your goal is cardiovascular health, aim to keep your heart rate in the Cardio zone for a longer portion of your workout.
You can also use the Fitbit app to set weekly exercise goals. Seeing that you’ve met your target of, say, 150 elliptical minutes per week provides a great sense of accomplishment. The data turns vague intentions into measurable, achievable targets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Fitbit count elliptical as steps?
Yes, when you use the Elliptical workout mode, it estimates steps based on your motion and intensity. It won’t be a perfect 1:1 match with walking steps, but it’s a good estimate of your effort.
Which Fitbit is best for the elliptical?
Any modern Fitbit with the dedicated Elliptical exercise mode works great. Choose one based on your budget and other desired features, like screen size or battery life. You don’t need the most expensive model for accurate elliptical tracking.
Why is my Fitbit not counting elliptical steps?
The most likely reason is that you didn’t start the Elliptical workout mode. If you’re just relying on the general step counter while holding the handlebars, it will likely undercount. Always start the specific mode.
Can I use “Running” mode on the elliptical?
It’s not recommended. The motion sensors are calibrated for different movements. Using “Running” might overestimate your pace and calories. For the most accurate data, always choose “Elliptical” if it’s available on you’re device.
Do I need to swing my arms for Fitbit to track?
It helps a lot for step estimation. If you need to hold the handles for balance or intensity, your heart rate and calorie data will still be accurate, but the step count might be lower. The important workout metrics are still being recorded.