Accurately Tracking Cycling Activity with Fitbit and Blocks Modular Smartwatch

Whether you're a casual cyclist or a dedicated enthusiast, accurately tracking your cycling activity is crucial for monitoring your performance and progress. While Fitbit has been a popular choice for general activity tracking, its accuracy in cycling can vary depending on the model you are using. This article explores how Fitbit and the Blocks Modular Smartwatch can help you track your cycling activity effectively, along with tips and considerations to improve accuracy.

Using Fitbit to Track Cycling Activity

Most Fitbit models can indeed track your activity while you are riding a bike, albeit with varying degrees of accuracy. The primary technologies used by Fitbit to track movement are accelerometers and heart rate monitors.

Considerations for Fitbit Accuracy in Cycling

Mode Selection: Ensure that you select the biking mode on your Fitbit if available. This helps the device better understand your activity and provide more accurate data. Heart Rate Monitoring: If your Fitbit has a heart rate monitor, it can provide a better estimate of calories burned, especially during aerobic activities like cycling. GPS Tracking: Some Fitbit models come with built-in GPS, which can provide more accurate distance and speed data while cycling. Alternatively, you can sync with your smartphone's GPS for this purpose. Wrist Position: Wear your Fitbit snugly on your wrist to improve the accuracy of tracking.

Improving Fitbit Tracking Accuracy

To get the most precise data, consider using a dedicated cycling computer or app alongside your Fitbit. This can help you capture all the necessary details, such as heart rate, distance, and route specifics.

Additional Options: Blocks Modular Smartwatch

If you find that your Fitbit isn't meeting your needs for cycling activity tracking, there are other options available, such as the Blocks Modular Smartwatch. This smartwatch is designed for extreme sports and outdoor activities and can provide additional data beyond what a standard Fitbit can offer.

Functionality of the Blocks Modular Smartwatch

The Blocks Modular Smartwatch works with multiple modules, allowing you to measure a range of parameters such as temperature, pressure, and altitude. This makes it particularly useful for activities like hiking, cycling, and other outdoor pursuits.

Adventure Module

With the Adventure Module, you can capture temperature, pressure, and altitude data, which can be invaluable when engaging in outdoor activities. This additional data can help you better understand your surroundings and performance during your cycling rides.

Real-World Examples: Fitbit Usage

While using your Fitbit, you might encounter scenarios where it doesn't accurately capture your activity. For instance, if you decide to wear your Fitbit around your ankle inside your sock while cycling, you might get inconsistent results. A single pedal stroke might be counted as multiple steps, leading to inaccurate tracking.

Advanced Features: Fitbit Surge

The latest firmware update for the Fitbit Surge now enables it to track bicycling activity just as effectively as it tracks running. This upgrade includes features like heart rate monitoring, distance, and routes. The first time I used it for cycling, I found it to be quite effective in tracking my activity data.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Fitbit can track your cycling activity, the accuracy can vary based on the model and the specific features you are using. For the best results, consider using the biking mode, a heart rate monitor, and GPS if available. If you require more advanced tracking, the Blocks Modular Smartwatch offers additional functionalities that can enhance your outdoor activities.