Fitbit aware some devices are not tracking distance accurately

Fitbit users are currently grappling with a puzzling issue where their devices are not tracking distance accurately. Over the past few weeks, frustrated Fitbit Charge and Sense users have taken to forums, detailing how their fitness trackers have suddenly decided that distance is a concept better left unmeasured. While steps are being counted, the distance metrics are conspicuously absent, causing quite the stir among the fitness-focused.

The outcry has been loud enough to catch Fitbit’s attention. A forum moderator acknowledged the issue last week, confirming that the team is aware and actively working on a fix. In the meantime, a potential workaround has been suggested: manually entering stride length. Users are encouraged to take matters into their own hands, literally and figuratively, to ensure their devices resume tracking distance as expected.

The issue manifests in various ways. Some users report their devices display 0 distance covered despite showing an accurate step count. Others mention that distance tracking works only when GPS is activated during specific exercises like running, leaving daily walking distances untracked. Users have tried resetting their devices, syncing repeatedly, and even resorting to factory resets, all to no avail.

Interestingly, one Fitbit Charge 6 user shared that their device tracks distance perfectly when using a partner’s phone but reverts to zero kilometers when connected back to their own. This suggests not everyone is affected.

The moderator’s advice to manually set stride length has brought relief to some. By entering specific stride measurements, users have managed to coax their devices back to tracking distances correctly. This temporary fix, while not ideal, has been a lifeline for those eager to maintain their fitness routines without the nagging uncertainty of inaccurate data. To do this, use the steps below:

On the Fitbit app:
• From the Today tab, tap Exercise days.
• Tap Menu > Activity settings > Stride Length.
• Adjust your stride length.

On fitbit.com:

• On the Fitbit settings page, scroll down to the Advanced Settings section. Find Stride Length and click “Edit.”
• Click “Set Your Own” and adjust your stride length.
• Click “Submit” and sync your device.

The Fitbit community’s response has been a blend of exasperation and resilience. Many users are sharing their experiences and troubleshooting tips, fostering a sense of camaraderie in the face of technological adversity. It’s clear that while the workaround is helpful, there’s a collective hope that Fitbit will roll out a permanent fix soon.

For now, Fitbit wearers can take solace in the fact that the company is on the case. The acknowledgment of the issue and the suggested workaround are steps in the right direction. Until a comprehensive solution is deployed, users might find themselves manually adjusting stride lengths, all while hoping their favorite fitness companion gets back on track with the next update.

Featured image: Fitbit