If you’re using a treadmill, you probably want to know: does Fitbit count treadmill steps? The short answer is yes, but how well it works depends on a few key factors. Getting your Fitbit to track your indoor walking or running accurately is important for meeting your daily goals. Let’s look at how it works and how you can get the best results.
Does Fitbit Count Treadmill Steps
Your Fitbit uses a three-axis accelerometer to detect motion. This sensor picks up the rhythm and pattern of your movement to count steps. On a treadmill, your body is moving, but your position is relatively fixed. This can sometimes confuse the sensor compared to outdoor walking, where your whole body moves forward through space.
For most people, a Fitbit does a decent job counting treadmill steps. However, accuracy can vary. Things like your walking style, where you wear the device, and your treadmill’s surface all play a part. If you’re holding onto the handrails, for example, your step count will likely be lower because your arm isn’t swinging naturally.
How Fitbit Tracks Different Types of Treadmill Workouts
Not all treadmill sessions are the same. Your device uses different algorithms for various activities.
- Walking: This is the most straightforward. If you’re walking at a moderate pace without holding on, accuracy is generally good.
- Running: The more vigorous motion of running is usually detected very well. The stronger arm swing helps a lot.
- Incline Walking or Running: Adding an incline changes your stride. Your Fitbit may slightly undercount steps if your stride becomes shorter, but it will still track them.
- Slow Jogging or Walking: Very slow paces can sometimes be missed if the motion isn’t pronounced enough for the sensor to register.
Top Tips for Maximum Treadmill Step Accuracy
You can take simple steps to improve your Fitbit’s counting on the treadmill. Following these tips will give you much more reliable data.
- Wear it on your non-dominant wrist. This is the default setting and helps filter out non-step motions like brushing your teeth.
- Don’t hold the handrails. Let your arms swing naturally at your sides. This provides the clearest motion signal for the accelerometer.
- Use the exercise mode. Manually start a “Treadmill” or “Run” workout on your Fitbit app. This tells the device to focus on step counting for that period.
- Check your stride length. Ensure your personal stride length is correctly entered in the Fitbit app. This affects distance calculation, which is linked to steps.
- Try different wrist positions. Wear the device a bit higher on your wrist (about 1-2 finger widths above the wrist bone) for better contact.
What to Do If Your Steps Seem Off
If your step count still seems inaccurate, don’t worry. There are a few troubleshooting steps you can try. First, make sure your Fitbit’s firmware is up to date through the app. Sometimes a simple restart of the device can clear up minor glitches.
You can also try calibrating it. After a treadmill workout, you can adjust the distance recorded in the app. Over time, this helps your Fitbit learn your personal stride. If problems persist, consider doing a factory reset, but remember this will erase all you data.
Comparing Fitbit Models for Treadmill Use
Not all Fitbits are created equal when it comes to indoor tracking. Newer models generally have more advanced sensors and algorithms.
- Versa & Sense Series: These smartwatches have good overall motion sensors and dedicated treadmill modes.
- Charge Series: Fitness trackers like the Charge 6 are excellent for treadmill workouts, focusing corectly on step and heart rate data.
- Inspire Series: More basic but still effective for step counting, especially if you start the exercise mode.
- Older Models: They still count steps, but may lack the specific “Treadmill” workout option, so use “Run” or “Walk” instead.
The built-in GPS in some models (like the Fitbit Sense) is not used for treadmill distance, as there’s no satellite signal indoors. Instead, it relies on the accelerometer and your stride length setting.
Why Distance Might Not Match the Treadmill Display
It’s very common for the distance on your Fitbit to differ from the treadmill console. This happens for two main reasons. First, treadmills are often not perfectly calibrated themselves—two different machines can show different distances for the same workout.
Second, your Fitbit calculates distance based on your steps multiplied by your personal stride length. The treadmill uses the belt length and rotation count. If your stride is shorter or longer than average, the numbers won’t match. Focus on consistency with one device (like your Fitbit) to track your progress over time.
Using the MobileTrack Feature
If you don’t have your Fitbit on you, you can use your phone. The Fitbit app has a feature called MobileTrack. It uses your phone’s sensors to count steps. Just carry your phone in your pocket or an armband while on the treadmill.
Remember, the phones sensors work similarly. So avoid holding it in your hand or placing it on the treadmill console for accurate results. This is a handy backup option, but it’s not as ideal as wearing your actual device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Fitbit count steps on a treadmill accurately?
It counts them reasonably accurately, especially if you use exercise mode and let your arms swing. It may not be 100% perfect compared to the treadmill’s own count, but it’s reliable for tracking your daily activity trends.
How do I get my Fitbit to count treadmill steps better?
Start a “Treadmill” workout manually, wear it on your non-dominant wrist, and avoid holding the handrails. This gives the clearest signal. Also, make sure its snug on your wrist.
Why is my Fitbit not counting my treadmill steps?
If it’s not counting at all, check that you’re wearing it correctly. If you’re holding onto the handrails tightly or putting your hands in your pockets, the lack of arm movement can prevent step detection. Also, ensure the device isn’t in sleep mode.
Does Fitbit count steps if I walk in place?
Yes, it can count steps if you walk in place, but the accuracy is lower than actual walking. The motion is less pronounced, so some steps might be missed. It’s better than nothing, but a treadmill will give you a better count.
Which Fitbit is best for treadmill workouts?
Models with a dedicated treadmill exercise mode, like those in the Versa, Sense, or Charge series, are the best. They are optimized for this specific activity.
Should I track my treadmill workout as a “Run” or “Walk” on my Fitbit?
If your model doesn’t have a “Treadmill” option, choose “Run” for running and “Walk” for walking. This is more accurate than letting it auto-detect, as it tells the device what your doing.
In conclusion, your Fitbit is a reliable tool for counting treadmill steps when used correctly. By understanding how it works and following a few simple best practices, you can ensure your indoor workouts contribute accurately to your daily fitness goals. The key is to wear it properly, use the right exercise mode, and focus on consistent tracking over time rather than getting hung up on minor discrepancies with the treadmill display.