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How to Change Exercises on Fitbit: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve logged a workout on your Fitbit, but it’s misidentified? Don’t sweat it! Changing the exercise type on your Fitbit is a relatively straightforward process, allowing you to maintain accurate fitness tracking and insights. Here’s how you do it.

How to Change Exercises on Fitbit?

The primary method for changing exercises on your Fitbit involves using the Fitbit app on your smartphone or tablet. The Fitbit device itself does not directly allow for exercise type modification; it relies on syncing data to the app for further management. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Open the Fitbit App: Launch the Fitbit app on your iOS or Android device.
Navigate to Exercise History: Tap on the “Today” tab (usually at the bottom) and scroll down to the “Exercise” tile. This section displays your recorded activities.
Select the Exercise to Modify: Tap on the specific exercise entry that you want to change. This will open the detailed view of that activity.
Edit the Exercise Type:
- On iOS: Look for a pencil icon (edit icon) usually in the upper right corner of the screen. Tap on it.
- On Android: Look for three vertical dots (menu icon) in the upper right corner. Tap on the three dots and select “Edit.”
Change the Exercise Type: A list of exercise types will appear. Select the correct exercise type from the options provided (e.g., Run, Walk, Swim, Bike, Workout, etc.).
Adjust Other Details (Optional): While editing, you can also modify other details like the start time, duration, distance (if applicable), and manually enter calorie burn if needed. Ensure the data is as accurate as possible.
Save Your Changes:
- On iOS: Tap “Save” or “Done” in the upper right corner.
- On Android: Tap the check mark icon or “Save” button, usually located in the upper right corner or at the bottom of the screen.

That’s it! Your Fitbit app will now reflect the corrected exercise type, and your fitness data will be more accurate. Remember to sync your Fitbit after making changes to ensure the updated information is reflected on your Fitbit device and across your Fitbit account.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Changing Exercises on Fitbit

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot common issues and maximize your Fitbit experience.

1. Can I Change Exercises on the Fitbit Device Itself?

No, you cannot change exercises directly on the Fitbit device. The Fitbit device primarily records the data. All exercise type modifications and data adjustments must be done through the Fitbit mobile app.

2. What If the Exercise Isn’t Automatically Detected?

If your Fitbit doesn’t automatically detect an activity, you can manually log the exercise in the Fitbit app. To do this:

Open the Fitbit app.
Tap the “+” icon, usually in the bottom right corner.
Select “Log Exercise.”
Choose the exercise type, start time, duration, and other relevant details.
Save the exercise.

This ensures that all your workouts are tracked, even if they aren’t automatically recognized.

3. How Do I Delete an Incorrectly Logged Exercise?

To delete an exercise that was incorrectly logged:

Go to the “Exercise” tile in the Fitbit app (accessed via the “Today” tab).
Tap on the exercise you want to delete.
On iOS: Tap the pencil icon (edit), then scroll to the bottom and select “Delete.” On Android: Tap the three vertical dots (menu icon) in the upper right corner, and select “Delete.”
Confirm the deletion when prompted.

4. Can I Rename a Custom Exercise?

Yes, you can rename a custom exercise that you have manually logged. Follow the steps to edit an exercise:

Access the exercise through the “Exercise” tile” in the Fitbit app.
Edit the exercise (pencil icon on iOS or three dots on Android).
You should be able to edit the exercise name along with the other details.
Save your changes.

5. What Exercise Types Can I Choose From?

Fitbit offers a wide range of exercise types, including:

Run
Walk
Swim
Bike
Workout (for general gym activities)
Treadmill
Elliptical
Hike
Yoga
And many more!

If you can’t find a perfect match, “Workout” is a good general option. Fitbit continually adds to its exercise database, so check back for new options.

6. How Does Fitbit Automatically Detect Exercises?

Fitbit uses a feature called SmartTrack to automatically recognize and record activities. SmartTrack recognizes continuous, high-movement activities like walking, running, swimming, and cycling based on motion patterns and heart rate data. You can customize the minimum duration for automatic exercise recognition in the Fitbit app settings.

7. Can I Adjust SmartTrack Sensitivity?

Yes, you can adjust the SmartTrack sensitivity in the Fitbit app. This allows you to customize how long you need to be active before an exercise is automatically recorded. To adjust:

Tap your profile picture in the Fitbit app.
Select your Fitbit device.
Find and tap “Exercise Shortcuts” or “SmartTrack.”
Adjust the duration settings for each activity.

8. Why Is My Fitbit Misidentifying Exercises?

Misidentification can occur due to several reasons, including:

Similar Movement Patterns: Certain activities might have similar movement patterns, causing confusion for the tracker.
Loose Fit: A loose-fitting Fitbit may not accurately track movement.
Incorrect Settings: Inaccurate personal information (like height and weight) can affect calorie burn estimates and activity recognition.

Ensure your Fitbit fits snugly and that your personal information in the app is up-to-date.

9. How Accurate Is Fitbit’s Automatic Exercise Detection?

While SmartTrack is generally accurate, it’s not foolproof. Accuracy depends on factors such as the type of activity, consistency of movement, and proper device fit. Manually logging exercises ensures the most accurate data.

10. What If I Forget to Start an Exercise on My Fitbit?

If you forget to start an exercise, Fitbit may still automatically detect it using SmartTrack. If it doesn’t, you can manually log the activity afterward using the steps mentioned earlier. Try to cultivate the habit of starting your exercise from the device as it leads to better accuracy.

11. Does Changing an Exercise Affect My Challenges and Badges?

Yes, changing an exercise type can affect your challenges and badges within the Fitbit ecosystem. The adjustments will reflect in your overall stats and progress towards goals.

12. Can I Export My Corrected Exercise Data?

Yes, you can export your corrected exercise data from Fitbit. You typically need to do this through the Fitbit website, not the mobile app. Look for options to download your data in CSV or other formats under the “Settings” or “Data Export” sections of your account profile on the Fitbit website. This allows you to analyze your fitness data in other applications or share it with healthcare professionals.

By understanding how to change exercises on your Fitbit and addressing common questions, you can ensure accurate and reliable fitness tracking, helping you reach your health and wellness goals effectively.