The Magic of 10,000 Steps

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When you join Fitbit, the default goal we set for each member is the magical number of 10,000 steps a day (you can also choose to customize your goal). And while this may not be the first time you’ve heard that goal, it might be more meaningful, and motivating, to understand its origins.

The Japanese first started using the 10,000 steps a day number, as part of a marketing campaign (!) to help sell pedometers. Since that initial campaign however, medical experts around the world have agreed that 10,000 is a healthy number for which to aim.

10,000 steps a day is a rough equivalent to the Surgeon General’s recommendation to accumulate 30 minutes of activity most days of the week. It should be enough to reduce your risk for disease and help you lead a longer, healthier life. The benefits are many: lower BMI, reduced waist size, increased energy, and less risk for Type II diabetes and heart disease. In fact, a study of the 10,000 steps a day method conducted in 2010 reported conclusive health benefits.

10,000 steps daily is approximately 5 miles. Unless you have a very active lifestyle or profession, you probably don’t reach 10,000 steps on a given day without putting some effort into your activity. This could be a lifestyle change such as walking to work, or the addition of an exercise routine to your day.

Another reason to do it? For most people, it’s convenient, free and simple to reach with just a little change to your daily routine. Working towards a 10,000 step a day goal? Good for you! Join the conversation below to help others get motivated, too!

Read more about 10,000 steps:

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      • I’m questioning the accuracy of my Fitbit charge 3.
        This morning I walked 4.5 miles on a gps app from my phone. My Fitbit recorded my walk at only 3.67. I know my phone app is correct.
        My age 65 and height and weight are input correctly on my Fitbit.
        What I don’t know how to do is to get the Fitbit to use my phones gps.
        Any suggestions.

        • Hi Steve. Our engineers are aware of this issue and are currently investigating it. For now, we suggest using the “Run” activity for GPS data, even when walking. We appreciate your feedback and hope to get this issue resolved as soon as we can.

          • Hi Fit Bit thank you so much for infecting the Fitbit I think it’s wonderful I use it every day I like it that I can keep track of my steps and keep track of my workout you guys keep doing what you were doing fit bit you are a wonderful project

          • Geezer? No way! 92 is the new 72, Kupuna! 10,000 steps is a standard goal that we’ve found to be affective in general. Depending on your needs or fitness level, you can adjust your daily goal. We recommend asking your primary doctor/medical professional what is a recommended goal for you. We hope this helps and we wish you well in all your health and fitness goals!

          • I noticed that pushing a shopping stops your steps from counting. I guess because my arms are not moving. Is this assumption correct?

          • Thanks for your question, Nancylee. Your assumptions are correct! If your hands are stationary while on a treadmill or pushing a shopping cart, your step count might be lower, because your hands are not moving in a motion as they normally would when walking/running. Our Fitbit trackers use a 3-axis accelerometer to understand your motions. The algorithm is designed to look for motion patterns most indicative of people walking/running.

            To learn more about Fitbit tracker accuracy, take a look at this help article. Hope this helps!

          • Put your Fitbit in your pocket when you’re on the treadmill, pushing a lawnmower/stroller, or a grocery cart. Steps are recorded accurately then. Love my Fitbit! ❤

        • There’s and app on your fit bit that you start before you go on your walk. This app syncs both your phone and fit bit GPS. It took me awhile to figure it out but I googled it and found my how!!

        • I have 2 Fitbit trackers. My daughter bought me the little belt pedometer. I bought the Alta. I have noticed they don’t agree. I like the small one because in the grocery store when you are not swinging your hands it does not register correctly on the Alta. They can be 2,000 steps different. So I wear both.

        • You have to sync it. It will use your phone gps just have to give Fitbit permission to access that data. Search GPS in fitbit help section and that should tell you how to do it.

        • Stive, I have same problem with gps. 20% less passing trip then on mobile. I have iPhone 6s and using 2 app (Runtastic and MapMyWalk). Fitbit charge 2 stole 20% of my trip ?!!!

        • You will have to measure your stride. With an accurate mileage thru GPS recording, and your number of steps recorded by Fitbit, you should be able to figure it out. Note: there are 5280 feet in a mile which will help your calc. Keep up the good work.

        • Your stride may be different then the “standard” fit bit is set with. Try to measure your stride then change the Fitbit to customize it to your personal stride

    • That’s what I was wondering. I’m 75 and still teaching. Lift weights twice a week. Also have three grandchildren that I help take to their sports practices. I sometimes hit 10,000 steps, but don’t want to set it as my goal and fall short on many days. I’m quite content to hit my 3 miles a day….if I get more that’s great.

      • Good grief Nsncy you put me to shame! I’m only 48 and just realising what a sedentary lifestyle I lead (despite working full time and a single mum to teenage girls ?) My partner bought me this Fitbit for our 6 year anniversary (am assuming he is trying to tell me something) but I have to say it’s working, the target is giving me something to work towards and am meeting it on most days ? Am a convert already

      • I am 16 and I am a big girl I have been hitting 10,000 steps for 2 weeks know and nothing is happening.

        • Maggie…good for you! I’ve only met 10,000 once in 2 weeks & it was tough! I’m sure you are more healthy for it even if you haven’t lost weight. Try decreasing the portion size you eat & drinking the recommend amount of water & cut out any pop you may drink. Keep up the good work!

          • Hi , I live in the UK ,I walk everywhere I don’t drive , I get my steps every day just walking to town and back , my neighbours do twice that walking their children to school everyday , I think we may need to set our goals differently here , we have paths (sidewalks) everywhere don’t snack as much and we drink less sodas , I notice when I visit the US portion sizes are massive compared with ours so there’s less food waste and we do not eat as much processed food , it must be difficult for you to change a life style when that’s the normal way to live , good luck hope you all manage to hit your goals and carry on

          • We are all with you and hope for a great year with weight loss you can do it!!!!

        • That’s awesome! Keep it up. It takes approximately 6 weeks to really start noticing a difference in the beginning. You go girl!!

        • I’ve just started using it this week, I set a goal of losing 1stone 10 pounds by New Year’s Eve. I’ve been following exactly what it says and eating slightly less than it says as I don’t want more, I’m drinking 2 litres water, did over 20,000 steps the last two days, did 50 floors yesterday, I’ve put on 4 pounds! Maybe it’s the water? I’m carrying on, I’ve set my target to 15,000 steps, it’s the active bit I’m struggling with, I’ve set 90 mins. I walk faster already too, will be measuring my self once a week too

          • I’ve heard that muscle weighs heavier than fat so maybe you’re just gaining muscle but losing fat! I get excited when I turn on my phone to fit~bit and everything lights up like fireworks to let me know I’ve hit that 10,000 mark or more and my watch buzzes, it’s just excitement and encouragement to keep on going! I’m easy to please….LOL

        • Morning. Are u drinking enough water, watching what u eat? Walking goes hand in hand with your calories- both how u eat and how much when u walk..

        • Keep going Maggie. You will see a change. Vigorous walking and dancing helps you accumulate more steps and you will also see changes. ??

        • Keep it up Maggie!
          It will show on due time. I began in July and have hit 10,000 miles more often now that I am nursing my dog after her ACL surgery. We walk 20 minutes slowly 3X a day plus, I do my walk of 30 minutes!
          Ugh..
          I feel hungrier but not guilty. Don’t stop…Believing. You can do this. 😉

        • U might find it’s getting easier tho hun. My body strengthens and tones muscles before it even touches my fat. If u had aching joints these should be easing, and breathing my be easier.
          I was quite athletic and an injury made it hard to even play with my kids for 2yrs. I’ve now healed and started walking and finding improvements in what I’ve mentioned above.y body seems to be getting fitter but I haven’t shifted any weight. But this will come x good luck x

        • Use your calorie counter. If you make sure your intake of calories is lower than your intake, you will lose weight. It’s working for me, a 69 year old grandma.

          • I’m a 71 year old grandmother and using the new Fitbit water resistant as I do aquarobics 4 mornings a week but I don’t think it is logging my very strenuous steps in the water accurately. In logging approximately 3,550 steps in 45 minutes. Any ideas!!

          • Hi Brenda! Flex 2 is designed to track laps, but steps done in the pool might not register. The step algorithm is based on basic step-based activities like walking and running (does not factor walking resistance when in a pool). For more info on accuracy, check out this help article: How accurate are Fitbit trackers?. Hope this helps!

        • Never give up. As a former big girl don’t let anyone discourage you in your goals. Don’t listen to stupid people who put you down. You are big and beautiful. I was only 20 pounds over weight when I was a teenager and thought I was a cow. Self asteam is important. If I screw up now. I start over tomorrow. I have lost 142 pounds.

        • I had my Fitbit for a month and saw little difference in my weight. Then I went a month and didn’t go near the scales and in that month I lost 10 lbs. I am 64 and get my steps in at least 6 days a week. Now my scale is put away until Christmas Day. Weighing too often is a discouraging trap.

        • Have you set a goal yet because if you set a goal for 10,000 steps than whenever you reach your goal it will start buzzing to tell you that you got your goal

          • I am 66 with a heart condition. I was the recipient of a pacemaker in 2011. I have seen many changes in health throughout the years. However, I eat differently and exercise on an almost daily basis. I set my Fitbit at 15000 steps and achieved it 5 times in the last week. Walking is my exercise of choice because I like using my own body weight and find it so therapeutic for the
            mind. I wear knee braces so I can vainly continue to wear my heels. I opened a tax prep business four years ago and retired from teaching. I thank God and ask for his continued blessings everyday. If I can do it so can you. Never give up!!!’

      • I am 72, walking 6 to 8 miles a day plus work out 3 times a week in the gym.
        One my favor is a Plank lasting 3 to 5 miles !

    • I am 70 and it is helping me stay limber and active! I think I am 35 on the inside…….walking more is helping my outside get closer to my inside identity!

      • Hi, I’m coming up sixty too, I walk around the house to up my steps , takes less than ten minutes to log 250 steps!!

    • The question should be about your health not your age!! I know someone with COPD an a heart that only pumps 20% of normal. He would be in the grave now if he tried for 10000 steps!

    • Georgia Parker
      Oct. 4, 2017
      I am 87 years old and I have made over 6000 steps today. I
      Set my goal to 5000 daily. I have
      reached my goal and over for more than six weeks I feel great!

    • Thanks for your question, Chris! It is possible to get 10,000 steps on a treadmill. However, if your hands are stationary while on a treadmill, your step count might be lower, because your hands are not moving in a motion as they normally would when walking/running. Our Fitbit trackers use a 3-axis accelerometer to understand your motions. The algorithm is designed to look for motion patterns most indicative of people walking/running. Let us know if you have any questions!

        • I think you can add it as 3×15 cycling. There’s a feature in the exercise tracker where you can add exercising time where your Fitbit might not fully respond to movement. I’m a bit surprised there isn’t a pre-set add-on for swimming! No way am I wearing my Fitbit in the pool 😉

        • To get my steps in, when on my spinning bike (when sitting, not standing) I don’t hold the handlebars, twist at the waist, and move my arms.

        • During my spinning class, while sitting on the seat, I do not use the handlebars, but instead use reciprocal swinging arm movements. It adds steps to the FitBit.

        • Hi Renee. Thanks for letting us know. Our engineers have worked diligently on your tracker’s algorithms to make sure that it does not pick up false steps or activity recordings while in a car. Unless you are driving in a car with a stiff transmission or on back country roads, your tracker should not give you credit for any work that you don’t do. If you do pick up some steps while driving, see Can I delete data? for instructions on removing steps. If you are experiencing further issues, please reach out to us via our other support channels so we can help you further.

          • I average 15000 to 24000 each day as a landscape Forman but it counts my arm sheveling and digging.

  • I always fail at diets so I thought I would baby step it first so the only change I made was get my water in (no more pop) 10,000 steps a day after a couple weeks strong I am now ready to change what I eat! This is a total life style change

    • I’m a 64 year old Nonna and I’m so happy with my Fitbit after 7 weeks I’m now consistently doing 10,000 steps or more a day.. I’ve lost weight and feeling great. Thank you!

  • I hit my 10,000 by two sessions on my treadmill. But, you have to have your Fitbit hand swinging, not holding on, but you get used to it. That and following weight watchers points program. Since 8/11/16 I’ve lost 14 1/2 pounds and feel so much better. I’m 65 and a grandmother of 4.

  • I think fit bit one should come in a different color if it happens to fall off jeans in restaurant difficult to find on dArk floors

    • Amazon in the UK have a very nice pink , I’m sure as they become more popular other colours will be added , glow in the dark or maybe a bit of sparkle would help

  • From a sedentary life style, the Fitbit is amazing, bringing in the healthy competition with friends and family, I already average 12000 steps a day. This is in about 3.5 weeks. 7lb lost. Recording the food eaten against calories burnt really does focus your calorie intake !

  • Love, love, love my fitbit !!
    My husbands boss bought him one back the first of June. He did so well his first week, when he asked me what I’d like for our 47 th anniversary? I said I want a fitbit.. He thought I’d lost my mind! But the second week of June I had mine on and programmed, raring to go. Then I had a back problem for 3 weeks and could barely even walk, but once I was back on my feet I got going.. I’m happy to say I just got my 10 lb loss badge this past Sunday. I’m still going to physical therapy after 4 weeks of chiropractic care and I’m up to 11,000 or more a day now. Some days it’s hard to get started but once I get going, I feel better and this helps motivate me.
    We also got the scale !! This thing is neat, it calibrates everything to your program on your ph, just one less thing to worry about..
    Lovin my fitbit!!

  • Does it make a lot of difference if the 10000 steps are not done at the same time, as I start my count as soon as I am awake. I average about 4500 in day to day routine (work, etc) then I walk when I get home to reach my target. I have lost 21lbs in weight as I joined a slimming club in March.

  • Can someone tell me why my Fitbit is not coordinating with my iPad. It registered on some days, but not yesterday. I exceeded my 10,000 steps so I’d love to see it! Please advise.

  • I have started doing around 20000 per day. I am 40 and since I started whilst it was hard to begin with the benifit a far outweighs the early pains

  • I hit my 10k Target (12 actually) but it took me 1:40h, so way above the 30 minutes it shook take me. I am 55 but 240lbs

    • It takes me more than 30 minutes to get 10,000 steps – usually most of the day. I walk 3 miles daily and that takes me about an hour plus my daily activities. Just keep moving ?

  • Thanks for information on having to move your arms to get more accurate count. I use the NuStep at the gym and I wondered why it didn’t count the steps that I walked. I don’t use my hands because it pulls my shoulders.

  • I wish Fitbit worked while holding on or was large enough for your ankle sometimes I’m always pushing a stroller even when I run. And the grocery store all those wasted steps. I consistently hit 12,000 steps I’m trying to push for 15 a day because I’m still not healthy as I want to be.

  • It really is the simplest way to begin exercising and stay motivated. Reaching 10k a day for me requires a little push to get there.
    Three years ago I was barely moving let alone walking. Job stress zombieland. My kids gave me a Fitbit for Mothers Day.
    I bonded with it instantly and it’s my number 1 supporter, motivator, lifeline. My friends, family and Fitbit community are my constant fuel. I will never run out of steam.

  • I do not find it easy to get I my steps due to meetings and running kids around. Any suggestions. I stand up a lot but I don’t move.

  • I’m 72 and I try to walk vigorously 4 days in early morning which gets me up to 7-8K then it’s easy to knock out the remaining steps to hit my 10.5K goal. It helps me to have that goal each day in front of me.

  • I am 52 ,and had arthritis pain in my big toe. After looking in to food and, calories I began to do 10,000 steps a day ,but I’m sure I couldn’t do it without my fit bit and there web page it gives you motivation . I also have no more pain in my toe now,

  • Hi
    I’m new to Fifbit (day 2) and am finding that my device is clocking up steps when I am sitting at my desk or in my chair. Is it reading my general arm movements when I am working or for example changing greater in the car?
    Sue

  • I do 12 k ? A day. If you want to lose weight, the calorie counter is amazing. It’s shocking how many calories are in some foods. It’s really made me aware and I actually love the challenge of finding low cal alternatives.

  • I’m 59 and a UK resident. I took early retirement 1st August 2016 weighing in at a massive 22stone 5 lbs. I got myself a little dog a month ago followed by a Fitbit and weighed in yesterday at 20stones 13 lbs…. A loss of 20 lbs in just over a month! Long way to go, I know by 10000 steps a day is easy walking a dog. Not sure how accurate the steps are, but who cares. I now have a target each day and incentive. Cut down the portion sizes and get walking! Good luck all!
    Ps. I’m a type 2 diabetic and my blood sugars have dropped to much more reasonable levels…. I’m having to lower my insulin intake to adjust. Hopefully insulin will not be required soon, just tablets. Here’s hoping!

  • I’m so happy to see so many of us getting involved and just staying healthy. I’m a personal trainer have taken on a New Journey in life and still doing anywhere from 10 to 20 k per day and loving it. Keep up the good work my Fitbit comrades.

  • I was in the UK for 8months and dropped 50 pounds. The only exercise I did was walking. However, I did change my diet. It helped that I was living about 10 miles from the nearest fast food place. I ate healthier, slept more and the weight fell off. I am a Type 2 diabetic who may be off my oral meds in a few more months. Now, to repeat the process whilst back in the US is the tricky part! Haven’t gained any weight, but haven’t lost any more either. It’s a balancing act here.

  • I’m 80 and a half. I’m a full time counselor in a middle school. My goal is 8,000 steps but last week was my best. My mileage walking was 20 miles! I was soooo excited. My Fitbit has changed my life. I challenge myself.

  • I had foot surgery in April- complete with metal hardware, etc, and I was in a cast for months and then a walking boot. I got rid of the walking boot about a month ago and got the Fitbit to motivate me as I recover. This is really the greatest thing. I am LOVING the Yosemite challenge as I went for the first time last autumn and my foot was too weak to do any trails. I can’t wait to return this year and be able to explore the park again. This has been great motivation. I work at a desk for nearly 10 hrs a day and I have never gotten up as much as I have in the past few weeks (and I have worked here for 9 yrs!)

    I love it!

  • The FitBit is the best thing to come into my life! I meet a friend at 5:30 am to walk – nice way to start the morning – and than hit the gym for an hour. My goal is to get to 5 miles before 7:00 am. After that it is all bonus steps!

  • I started using Fitbit on 5/2916 and can’t believe how motivated it has kept me. I’m 62 and I can’t play basketball with my son the way I used to or wrestling. He’s 16 so walking is the next best thing for me. I have walked 500 miles since then.

  • I have been trying to use my Fitbit to reduce my body fat. I love how it keeps me going. I can see I am getting more exercise.

  • Anyone have any tips for making all your steps count on the treadmill? I just did 6.5 miles and it only registered 8.1k steps. The other day it was even more off. It’s great on my neighborhood walks but when I use the treadmill (on rainy days), the count is way off and I lose my challenge. I hate losing.

    • Hi Patty! If you’re on a treadmill, your wrist-based tracker will count your steps but the total may be slightly lower than usual. If your hands are stationary while on a treadmill, your step count might be lower, because your hands are not moving in a motion as they normally would when walking/running. Our Fitbit trackers use a 3-axis accelerometer to understand your motions. The algorithm is designed to look for motion patterns most indicative of people walking/running. If you need more help, please reach out to our support team via our other support channels.

  • Just wondering…if you do pool walking and can’t wear the Fitbit in the water is there a way to add the activity to be tracked.

  • Thanks to Fitbit I m now aware of how many steps i do in a day. I do about 5000 steps before I start my day as an excercise. During the day I used to do max 4000 and used to land up missing my target of 10k. I realised I need to do something which is just a part of my routine. My office is on the 5 th floor. Now after lunch I go down during lunch time and take a couple of rounds of the building and this helps me with little over 2 k steps. And I meet my target coz of this little change ?

  • When I first got my fit bit and saw my totals of 700-800 steps a day I thought that the 10,000 goal was a cruel joke. But I started walking and working out and it wasn’t long before I hit it for the first time. Now I’m on a streak of 10,000+ every day since August 6th!

  • I bought my fitbit to monitor my sleep patterns. I did not know at the time that it would encourage me to walk more . In two months since I’ve bought the fit bit I have reduced my waist size by one size. Without changing my diet at all. My weight is still the same , But my belly is smaller. Before the fit bit I was walking approximately 3 to 4000 steps a day. For the past month, I have walked an average of over 11,000 steps a day. It has been a great encouragement to me.

  • This really has motivated me to walk more, especially when I see that I am close to the 10k mark and it is close to going to bed. I will walk more even if it is just around the house just to hit that goal.

  • I”m 68 and ride a horse for between 60 & 90 minutes a day, pity fitbit can’t cater for this ” extreme” sport. Wonder how many steps it would account for!?

    • Hi Jacqueline. Our apologies for the delayed response. Our Fitbit trackers do not have an algorithm that can translate horseback riding into steps. Our trackers are designed to track steps for step-based activities such as running/walking. However, if you’d like to share your feature idea, feel free to do so on our ideas board.

  • I have found my Fitbit Tracker to be a Godsend. It keeps me on my toes. It also makes me realized that I have been staking a lot of steps without knowing it. Tracking my food and water intake is now so easy. Love it.

    • Thanks for your question, Judy. If your hands are stationary while pushing a cart, your step count might be lower because your hands are not moving in a motion as they normally would when walking/running. Our Fitbit trackers use a 3-axis accelerometer to understand your motions. The algorithm is designed to look for motion patterns most indicative of people walking/running. If your tracker is not tracking any step, try restarting your tracker.

      To learn more about Fitbit tracker accuracy, take a look at this help article. If you need more help, please feel free to reach out to our support team via our other support channels.

  • I got my chargeHR Fitbit last week, I noticed that when I woke up in the morning there was an added 400 steps??

    • Thanks for sharing this with us, Sabeen! Please note that your tracker begins tracking your steps for the new day starting at 12am. So if you’re wearing your Fitbit tracker to sleep and wake up in the middle of the night to get a glass of water or go the bathroom, it will count those steps. Otherwise, if you were not wearing your tracker and received steps, try restarting your tracker. If you continue to see hundreds of steps added overnight without reason, please reach out to our support team via our other support channels so we can take a closer look.

  • I’m so excited to start my new fit bit program my best friends daughter has one and she told me how wonderful it is so I choose to take good care of myself

  • I feel it’s a great motivator. After started using fit bit I am naturally conscious to complete my goal . Since I am conscious enough it gave me very good result in weight and health both .I am happy and satisfied both.
    MM

  • Love my Fitbit….I regularly do 10,000 Monday through Thursday’s…Friday’s I’m up to 15 to 17,000…weekends I do 22,000 to 25,000 per day… I achieved my goal hiking during vacation for 2 weeks at 32 to 40,000 steps per day… When I returned home I was in great shape for 62 year old… My question is when I chose to bike all day nothing recorded… Also I watch my calories burned… When I was climbing cliffs and mountains I would assume i would but more calories but I noticed no difference..how are calorie burns being teacked

  • My fitbit charge 2 will not sync and I have checked everything the say to.. It continues to say fitbit and I phone not paired!
    Will I lose all the steps done since it stopped sinking @5:38pm today?

  • This goes way back 10,000 steps a day for better health! I truly believe it.. I remember wearing a pedometer clip on and that’s the old fashion way now technology creation with the Fitbit I just love it!! I have the Fitbit HR and I can track steps and heart rate instantly! Thanks to my hubby!! Also I’m wondering why the last 2 days my Fitbit did not sync my steps? I’m trying to make a goal and I looked at my log history it shows zero Thursday and Friday? And I have bluetooth on my iPhone? Can someone explain??

  • Really tired of seeing the pinnacle of what I should be doing. With an arthritic knee I would welcome a little support for my 5000. It’s like climbing a mountain and your 10000 message just really smacks- we are NOT ALL YUPPIES…

    • Well done ! Arthritis is such a painful condition. Your achievement is excellent !! I dont have this dis-ease and find 10000 difficult to achieve. Hopefully I will get there and find the fitbit a great motivator. Be proud of yourself, you’re doing great !

    • I have had 3 back fractures and dysfunction in 4 joints after s fall .I also have had ms for 44 years .i really think that a moderated total that embraces illness would be very useful .Good for you, bravo

  • I wonder, why my fitbit blaze shows 100-200 steps when I just wake up in the bed. its little confusing and question on reliability of the tracker.

  • Ever since I got my Fitbit it doesn’t come off it gives me encouragement to do more I am constantly trying to beat my last goal. It’s awesome I love it. ??

  • My friend and I both have Fitbits we do similar exercise and work but her Fitbit counts up sometimes double the steps mine does. Can you tell me how to find the setup page to compare stats.

    Frustrated
    X

  • My Fitbit is a bit out of sorts before I even get out of bed I have climbed 31 floors! So I doubt the accuracy of the steps and calories I have had it replaced once already. Great software shame about the hardware but I will persevere

  • Is 10,000 steps a day a realistic goal for someone in their 60’s? I can achieve 6,000 steps but takes me an hour and not 30 mins suggested in this blog.

  • I’ve gotten better at it.. some days not quite there.. but I start over everyday… I will say it has made me feel better

  • Frustrated…! As a fitness instructor & gym manager I’m dissapointed. My day consisted of working out, teaching Zumba & constantly on my feet moving. At the end of the day it documented ZERO steps!

  • I have notice I brief better since trying to make the 10,000 steps a day now im challenge to go to the next level.

  • In the job I have my wrist and hands move a lot while standing in one place but the Fitbit counts it as walking how can I stop that from happening. I do not get an accurate count of steps in a day.

    • Hi Joe. Although Alta cannot calculate floors or elevation, it will calculate active minutes. Your Fitbit tracker recognizes and awards active minutes when the activity you’re doing is more strenuous than regular walking, which includes everything from a brisk walk to a cardio workout or run. Let us know if you have any questions!

  • 10,000 steps a day is a rough equivalent to the Surgeon General’s recommendation to accumulate 30 minutes of activity most days of the week.
    334 steps a minute wow

  • My Urologist had me get a Fitbit and upped my goal to 12,000 steps per day. I’ve been doing it. I hAve a Fitbit Zip. n someone please tell me how to set that new goal

  • Pls can someone help to clarify the Fitbit step counting. I feel my new Fitbit is over counting. Just from my bed to the bathroom is 45 steps is that normal ?
    I just bought the latest Fitbit 3 days ago. Is there a fault ?

  • I’m in a wheelchair so I can’t get 10,000 steps. I think I have done good by losing almost a hundred pounds without the exercises.

  • I have a Blaze. It is great! Very motivating and I think it is accurate except on the elliptical trainer. It disagrees with the stride count that the machine records. But oh well! I wish I could figure out how to sync/pair with Weight Watchers.

    • Thanks Laurie! We’re happy to know that you’re enjoying your Blaze. For help with syncing to Weight Watchers check out this Fitbit help article.

      Fitbit trackers are designed to track step based activities, manually logging an activity works well when step count isn’t the best indicator of the calories burned. If you are doing an activity that does not require steps (like cycling or using an elliptical machine), or an activity that requires more than just steps (like tennis or yoga), logging the activity manually improves the accuracy of this activity’s contribution to your caloric burn. If you need more help, please reach out to us via our other support channels and we will take a closer look.

  • I believe the goal of 10,000 a day to be great for people with no job and no children. However, when I go to the gym and do a solid hour on the elliptical, increasing the level from 12-20 and I’m only getting around 5,000 steps; I’d say I’ve more than taken care of the old ticket that day. I usually end up with 8,000 if I don’t consciously try to take steps for the sake of taking steps.
    I’ve set my personal goal at 11,000 and only average making it three times a week.

  • I am 75 and have lost 25 lbs just from walking and watching what I eat. I still teach and take care of a big house and large property. I usually walk over 12,000 steps a day. I love it.

  • A minimum of 10k steps a day has helped me to lose 25 pounds and go down two waist sizes. Never felt better and the competitions in the Fitbit ecosystem are a great way to stay motivated. Keep up the great work everyone.

  • I am 70 and have been handicapped for six years from side effects of a statin drug. I got worse and worse until I was bedridden. I’m not taking them now and feel much better so I got a Fitbit and am so excited by my progress. What a high when I reach my goal. Thankyou so much for this great product. My doctor is so pleased she even gave me a hug last week. (No awful pain killers now either)?

  • I received by Fitbit about a week ago. I have been doing challenges with my friends and co-works. I love it. It is a great way to reach my 10,000 steps without struggling.

  • Hi Fitbit
    I just received my new Fitbit charge 2 rose gold and absolutely love it 🙂 but just wondering how accurate the steps are? As I opening it up, turned it on and sync with my phone it clocked up 16 steps in 30 seconds and I hadn’t even stood up or moved the Fitbit in any directions, it was still on the table? Is this normal? It seems to be clocking up steps while I’m not even moving? Any help appreciated

  • Love my fit bit! I find it very motivating and I am starting to feel great. Just need the waist line to start showing some results

  • I am 82 going on 83 – have mild COPD and working towards walking 10,000 steps. Averaging between 7000/8000. Is 10,000 too much for a woman my age or is there such a thing as too much?

    • Hi Betty! So you’re going to be 83 years young. Happy Early Birthday to you! 10,000 steps is a standard goal that we’ve found to be affective in general. Depending on your needs or fitness and health level, you can adjust your daily goal in the Fitbit app. We recommend asking your primary doctor/medical professional what is a recommended goal for you. We hope this helps and we wish you the very best!

  • My Fitbit was not connected for 75 days of this year. Allowing for that I have averaged 9000 steps per day, not bad for 75 years of age. My weight goal is 165, started the year at 172.6. In April of 2015 I was at 180, so good progress. Favourite outdoor activities are golf, fishing, gardening, canoeing and walking. Want to have good health like me at 75? Stay away from junk food, don’t smoke, drink in moderation, eat plenty of fruit and veggies and stay outdoors most of the day. Best of all have a very comfortable and romantic relationship with your significant other.

  • I LOVE my Alta! I found that when I went to the grocery store (many times walking around the store for an hour or more) it didn’t seem to register my steps very well. I assumed it was because I was pushing a cart…and my arms weren’t moving much. So, I tried tying it to my shoe lace…and sometimes I fasten it to my necklace. Both of these things work really well!

  • The key to reaching 10,000 steps a day is to MOVE! Conscious-awareness. As you move, you gain more energy. Walk to work, if possible. Use the steps instead of elevators. Make use of your in-home gym (steps going from first to second floor). My strongest motivator is my Fitbit Alta. It reminds me to move every hour. “Move your body for a better body” – Leslie Sansone. Love that motto!

  • I’ve been doing 10,000 per day since June. I’ve lost 38 lbs. and no longer pre- diabetic. A1C went from 6.2 to 5.7. ?

  • I’m questioning the accuracy of my new Charge 2. The amount of steps recorded appears excessive in comparison to my activity and this morning it’s recorded steps and I’m not even out of bed.

  • Just received a Charge 2 for Christmas and I already don’t like it. The step count is waaaay off. It counts steps even when I’m not walking and I mean counts tons of steps. I compared my iPhone step and my Fitbit. I actually counted the steps manually in my head as i walked and the Fitbit was over by 32 steps. That adds up to a lot by the end of the day. After the walk I just sat for about a half hour and the Fitbit added another 22 steps and my iPhone added none. The iPhone is very accurate compared to this Fitbit. Also I hate that you can’t reset your calorie burn before you actually workout. It starts counting calorie burn from midnight and all day long to give you an overall daily burn which is fine but I want to know what my workout burn was as well. It’s an unfortunate feature. I don’t want to do math calculations to figure out by workout burn. You shouldn’t have to do that. If i would have known this ahead of time I would have asked for a different tracker. So disappointed.

  • Should I be useing this device as I have a artificial heart valve. I just got the device and I have been wearing it 24/7 since Sunday 25/12/16

  • I’d LOVE it if they had it set so we had our OWN personal challenges to do! It’s fun to do them with others but there are those that make it not so fun when they cheat. It seems like those ppl have some real issues and low self esteem is one that they struggle with and I am doing this for fun and to challenge me not to be someone’s punching bag.
    Our own FUN, PERSONAL GOALS would be a blast and if they came built in with things to push us that’s even better! The only problem with this Fitbit is that it counts my steps when I’m simply doing laundry which I guess would matter bc I am burning calories in a different way.

  • For the past two days my fit bit isn’t syncing or recording my steps?
    The battery is charged and everything else is working fine

  • hi everyone. i received a fitbit charge 2 for xmas and do not yet understand fully the benefits of it.
    i do have one question, and that is while sitting in my office chair or standing in one spot and not moving, i can swing my left wrist that has the fitbit on it and the count for steps taken increases. can somebody explain how fitbit separates and counts the ACTUAL steps taken?
    ron

  • i hit 10000 steps a day but i don’t do it at a stretch, I hit the count by adding steps all thru the day. Is it fine for weight loss? Or should I cover 10000 steps at one stretch?

  • Great Article!! I Always Aim To Hit 10,000 Steps! I Want To Increse My Goal This Year And Hit 12,000 A Day!!! 🙂

  • I recently downloaded Fitbit app on my phone, can someone confirm if I walk on treadmill and hold on to the “arms” the steps may not register!!!

    • Hi! If your hands are stationary while walking on a treadmill, your step count might be lower because your hands are not moving in a motion as they normally would when walking/running. Our Fitbit trackers use a 3-axis accelerometer to understand your motions. The algorithm is designed to look for motion patterns most indicative of people walking/running.

      To learn more about Fitbit tracker accuracy, take a look at this help article.

  • I am 55 I’ve done years of karate playing basketball but it’s taken it’s toll on my body since I started walking 16000 steps a day I’m in better shape than ever I even sleep better I do juice twice a day and don’t smoke I walk to work and if it’s to cold walk around the house lol I look and feel like I’m in my thirties so take my word for it it works any questions on a very healthy life style

  • I’d like to see a step chart based on age and health conditions not just do 10000 steps or your going to die

  • i love my new fitbit!! had it for christmas and as i lead a very active life, i reach well beyond 10.000 steps, had an accident and badly sprained my foot on 2nd jan, but i’m a bit of a hyperactive, i’m finding i’m still limping to my 10.000 steps, so anyone can do it! ? great piece of tech ?

  • My wife bought me one for Christmas to help motivate me into burning off my Christmas pud , I was astonished when I whor it to work and found I regularly go above 12,000 steps ! Now I can prove I’ve had a hard day at work ! Lol ?

  • I’m nowhere near 10,000 steps. Still, I am moving a lot more since I got it and wear it every day. I’m sure the 10,000 step goal will be reached once the weather warms up!

  • I’m happy to do 10,000 steps a day. But I just want to point out that this CAN’T be equivalent to 30 minutes a day — not many people can do 5 miles in half an hour!

  • I was aiming to hit 10,000 a day everyday in 2017 but have already fallen short 2 times this week! I will now aim for ? 345 days this year!

  • Having a dog is very helpful for your step count. If you take your dog out twice a day for 30 minutes or so you will get 5-6k in. The other tip is plan yr day out and if you travel by public transport get off a bit earlier. averaged 14k a day since getting my Fitbit 18 months ago.

  • Received my Fitbit for Christmas. At 77 years young I was setting most of the time, I started walking the mall every day and in I’m up to 8000 steps since Christmas, Best gift I ever got. Love it, I’ll report again when I make the 10000.

  • 100000 steps a day is difficult to do with a busy lifestyle but I am going to try . I have elevated HBA1C To 6.5 and I want to lower it . My doctor put ma on metformen last month . Anything I ac do for life extension I will

    • Hiya i also have type 2 diabetes i found low sugar low salt low fat and moving alot more helps alot so much so i dont take tablets anymore just watch my diet

  • At the beginning of 2016 I set a goal of walking 3,000 miles for the year. I reached my goal primarily by walking while playing golf almost every day and doing my own yard work. I’m 73 and feel great.

  • Just got it a week ago. Sadly Fitbit doesn’t seem to recognize cycling!!
    It probably counted calories as if I was jogging!! Anything can be done ? Thx

  • I love to aim for 10000 steps a day and I think that other people should too! It keeps me going and whenever I look at the my Fitbit and see fireworks I know I have reached my goal of 10000 steps and I feel like a winner!

  • Fitbit helps me focus on what I am doing. If I have had a low step day at work (I drive a lot). When I get home I know what I have to do to up the steps.

  • I have been at 7996 steps since 9.15pm this evening and walked about been upstairs twice and my steps have not increased anyone have any ideas why that is

  • ” When you join Fitbit, the default goal we set for each member is the magical number of 10,000 steps a day (you can also choose to customize your goal). ”
    I disagree – after I’d put my stats in etc my default step goal was automatically 9000 steps. I haven’t altered it, I thought it odd that it was advocating 10k yet had set mine at 9k.
    I’m getting 10k most days now and I’m really enjoying using this charge 2 🙂

  • I try to do between 10,000 steps and 15,000 a day as my goal make it most days with effort but feel I have achieved something makes me want to keep trying

  • I set my goal at 12000 steps and reach it pretty easy I feel so much better I’ve been doing Fitbit for 7 months and I love it

  • 1. Does the 10,000 steps include exercise?
    2. If not, is there anyway to omit the steps taken during logged exercise in your step count. I recorded a 6k run today and my display showed a figure which obviously included the steps during my run. I’d rather it didn’t. Thanks

  • April 2017 is my 4 year anniversary of working out with my personal trainer. To workout with a PT is one of the best decisions I’ve made for myself.
    Christmas 2016, I received a Fitbit from my daughter and it has provided an element that was missing for me. I’m able to account for my steps throughout the day and know what I still need to do to achieve my goal. I’m pumped to see how incorporating my PT and Fitbit info together will impact my assessments.

  • Too bad the Fitbit doesn’t work half the time said I had no steps on the dashboard the last 2 days when I had well over 10,000 each day

  • My Fit Bit records steps while I’m driving my car, but doesn’t record the 3 miles a day I do on the treadmill so I don’t rely on it to get an accurate measure of my activity.

  • Bit dismayed that my steps aren’t counted properly when my arms aren’t moving. So when I’m carrying my 2 stone son (no easy task!) or lugging the shopping the km home I’m being diddled out of my step count, even though it’s actually a lot harder?!?!
    Still love my Fitbit though.

  • I got my Fitbit for Christmas and given the OC-ness in me, I need to meet 10K steps a day. If I don’t, I compensate to get more the other days. I managed to lose 5 lbs in just 2 wks!!! Loving this!!!

  • With my new phone I finally got to unwrap and set up my Fitbit flex. I am trying to keep my stress level down by trying to keep myself from feeling it excercise and keeping my mind exercised. My daily steps are my first challenge.‍♀️

  • I have been very lazy the last week it’s the23rd January and was hoping to lose about two kg but i gain about 2kg because i got to lazy

  • I started Fitbit January 2016 and did over 3,000 kilometres for the year. I LOVE IT. My weekly high for 2017 is 143,000 and daily high is 33,000….I think I’m obsessed but it keeps me in shape

  • Hi, how long is one step in cm or feet? Usually when I take 1 step the Fitbit calculate 2 steps. It would be good if anybody has answer for this.

  • Got my Fitbit a couple of weeks now and although I can’t seem to get my 10,000 steps, it definitely keeps me encouraged to keep on pressing on! Love the reminders to get up and move during the day.

  • Since I started the different challenges l have lost weight and feel a lot better about myself. I take long walks in the morning and some evenings. It gives me a lot of time to pray and cleanse my thoughts. I love it!!!!!!!

  • Hi my fitpit doesnt take my steps and km on treadmill cause i hold my hands on the treadmill but i put my walking progress manualy 3km in 35 minites and i always get more than 70000 steps with 1500 burning calories i dont think this is accurate

  • Hi my fitpit is tracking my steps and distance on treadmill. I know its because i hold my hands. So i do it manualy i always walk 3 km in 35 minitues and i get 70000 and steps with 1500 burning calories i think its not accurate

  • I got my fitbit three months ago and did 8000 steps/day. I’m now up to 12000 and hope to get to 15000. Already lost about five pounds. I just LOVE it.

  • I am so motivated to get to the 10,000 mark daily. I have challenge my coworkers to daily met that goal. Daily I try to surpass that goal.

  • I am a 79 year old who plays golf twice a week (~16000 steps per round). What should my step goal be for the other 5 days? 8K/day?

  • 10,000 steps a day? I find it a satisfying challenge and I’m now reaching it daily! I’m trying to lose weight so I’m hoping this will help me hit that goal. How long would it take (with a sensible diet) to shake 30 lbs?

  • I’m young but recently had open heart surgery. I’m 7 weeks out and doing 6,000/day. I plan to go up to 8,000 after I’ve met 6,000 or more steps for 5 consecutive days, then up to 10,000! I ❤️ Fitbit for motivating me to walk more, especially since I can’t workout yet.

  • I just got my Fitbit and doing 10,000 steps a day is easy in Hawaii. Doing up to 16,000. Doing this at home is going to be a challenge. Any tips? .

  • Ive just signed up for 10,000 steps through March to raise money for cancer. Most days I can reach this goal but it’s a combination of walking daily and then finishing off on the treadmill. It’s going to be a challenge but I’m up for it

  • I’m new to all this! My goal was 5000 a day, I’m now at 7000! I feel good about this! To all who do 10000 plus, you rock! I’m getting there! My Fitbit keeps me accountable! Love it! ❤️

  • I love my Fitbit I so at least 12,000 steps a day the weight I have lost with watching what I eat is 18 lbs. so happy!

  • It’s 9:00am in Seoul.. minus 3 degrees outside! Did my 10,000 steps!!! Already Happy walking everyone ❤️❤️❤️

  • The fitbit has been a lifesaver for me I average 18,500 steps per day…have set my daily goal to 15,000 … have lost 13 lbs now set a goal for 30 am sure I will get there

  • I walk on my eliptical and walk with a friend 10,000 steps a day, but I am gaining weight instead of loosing. I don’t understand. Been doing it every day for a month. I watch what I eat, salads, fruit and veggies. No candy and snacks. Want to loose weight. What’s going on. On blood pressure and statin med and pain patch

  • I am server at a restaurant and it’s crazy how many steps I do around this place. Average steps is 18,000

    It’s mind blowing to me lol. Well I love my Fitbit and it’s very useful with the Bluetooth hook up.

  • I find that 10000 steps makes me really hungry. I tend to eat more than normal and don’t lose weight? Any suggestions?

  • 10,000 steps a day is hard for someone with a bad knee and 65 years of age. I use to walk an hour 6 days a week. My hip and knee hurts if I do now. So I do what I can. I walk thirty minutes a day now and stay up on my feet most of the day getting things done around the house

  • 10,000 steps is a nice goal! When I first started using the Fitbit I like 10,000. I’m definitely more active now and I do 17,000 on normal days and 20,000 on really active days.

  • I love my Fitbit my goal is always 10,000 a day if not more !! It keeps you active and healthy! Good luck to everyone that walks the walk !!!

  • I have a desk job but have recently started shutting my office door and turning some music on for 15 minutes while I get up and dance! I also run up and down the steps a few times if I get a break. Finally hitting my 10,000 steps goal!

  • This is just not at all accurate. I have been way more active than this portrays. I did a volunteer job for a pet rescue today, for example. There’s no way my level of actively is this low, as well as previous days! I have re charged this thing like, three times, paying very close attention to making sure I did it correctly. This device is SO not accurate, and very well kick me out of a study. Thanks a lot … not….

  • I started using my new Fit-bit Surge on Sunday. I am 70 years old and over weight at ~255 pounds. The idea of 10,000 steps was new to me, but I have been walking in my neighborhood for about 6 months to help reduce the effects of my Type II diabetes.

    I’m lucky, in that my neighborhood is comprised of several streets with sidewalks with most ending in cul-de-sacs. We are in an area of hills, which have a total variation in height of about 100 feet. One route I take is ~0.8 miles long and registers 8 flights of stairs. An extended route I use is ~1.15 miles long and registers 16 flights of stairs.

    Each week I intend to add another street to extend the distance of the hike by about 0.8 miles. By the middle of May the hike will be about 2 miles long and will generate a reading of of about 40 flights of stairs. I try to take 2 to 3 hikes a day because I spend most of the rest of my time sitting. I will be able to use longer or shorter routes depending on how I feel and the weather. My goal will be ~5 miles a day in hikes plus whatever other walking I do.

    The calorie measurement feature is turning out to be more useful than I had thought it would be. I use a fairly restricted 1500 calorie diabetic diet and do not always pay a lot of attention to between meal snacks. Now I can put in the exact foods I eat and see the total calorie count for each day. Comparing my calorie goal to the calories burned I can stay in focus and loose some weight. I’ve lost 1 pound so far, but 1 pound a week is my goal. Another effect of the exercise is a less interrupted sleep. My restful sleep percentage went from 89% to 97%.

    I have noticed some inconsistencies in the recorded elevation while hiking, but most errors are due to my unfamiliarity with the Surge. I printed out the manual and it helps, but sometimes it is not clear how to get to where I need to be to make adjustments, such as which hand to wear the Surge on. I’ll have a better idea of how useful this all is after about 2 months of data and some weight loss.

  • i have to exercise to get my goal of 10,000 steps, but it’s a good thing. i started working it recently and i am starting to feel better and healthier. i know it’s only been a few days but i’m really happy with myself. i use to just sit and not really do anything when i get home but now with exercising i feel better.

  • I'm an avid bike rider. However my left arm, where my fit bit is located, does not move while I'm writing, thus my unit does not tend to record any steps. Are there any solutions to this? says:

    I’m an avid bike rider. However my left arm, where my fit bit is located, does not move while I’m writing, thus my unit does not tend to record any steps. Are there any solutions to this?

  • Had a baby 11months ago and am use to sitting home 24/7, but now trying to get into the habit of 10,000 steps a day. Today 16,100 steps w hiking, running and dancing. Feels great! I hope to get this much in a couple times per week along with 10,000 on other days.

  • I like the application especially because I realize how much I ate when finalizing the day’s list … however I have the feeling the step count is higher than the actual count. What do you think? : )

  • I play music every morning and dance to it it cheers me up as well as help me get my 10,000 and more steps most days I have Fibromyalgia so it helps me to get moving.

  • I’m working on getting 10,000 steps daily. Doing good but don’t always reach it but pretty close. Sometimes I run out of energy during my workouts. Are there any rest days recommended? I have diabetes and my numbers have really improved:)

  • I used to get 10,000+ steps on my Fitbit HR before I upgraded to the Fitbit Charge 2. Inaccurate step count while I’m at work I now get 1/2 that.

  • I struggled at first, the Fitbit has honestly made it easy for me to achieve the 10,000 plus steps per day. It’s helped change my life.

  • Sir my Fitbit charge2 also count distance covered by byke or car as a stpes . So its not accurate step count for me . Is it possible in Fitbit charge 2 it doesn’t count byke or car distance .

  • Should someone 71 years old have the same goal?
    I’m very proud of myself because most days I achieve my goal but was just wondering if it is age based ❤

  • I had a heart scare Afib, in early January. I had stopped using my Fitbit prior to the event but now wear it 24/7. If I had it on the night of the afib I would have known what was happening to me (heart rate went as high as 235 BPM). Now at 62 years I’m attempting to maintain 10,000 steps a day. Work long days behind desk but adjusting to build in the hour I need to satisfy the Fitbit God.

  • I am new to the fit bit. I took mine off to get in the shower and now will noy show my steps taken. Can anyone help

  • It is fun hitting the goal and not that hard to do. I am nine years old and almost hit every day. I usually get around thirteen thousand steps a day.

  • On some days, I really have to go the extra time to get my 10,000. Others days, after a workout bits a snap.

  • Please please can someone help me how do I reset my Clock on my FitBit? Since I was in South Africa in November my clock has not altered to GMT!
    12,291 Steps today where do I add them?

  • I am almost at 10,000 steps but I am at 8,496 the date is Thursday the 9 and it is 2017 ok signing off bye people out their

  • I used to be a distance runner, but now just walk. I really like my fitbit, but I have to take exception to the notion that 10,000 steps a day is easy. When I walk my 3 miles on the track AND shop a few places AND walk around the house a lot, I MIGHT get in 10,000, but sometimes not even then. But I also do stairmaster and swim, so fitness is not only about the 10,000 steps a day.

  • Hi. Yesterday i found out that my fitbit blaze is tracking my steps while im sitting down, eating. Every time i took my fork with mu left hand (the one where my fitbit sits) to my mouth, it counted it as a step. Real downer. Any explanation for it? Im putting my blaze for sale.

  • I’m an 82 yr. Woman, I think 10,000 miles is a bit more than I can walk in one day. Are there limits or maximum for my age
    Group??

  • I love the fit bit it keeps me active I do at least 20,000 steps a day over 8 miles mon to fri it is hard but really worth it

  • I love my Fitbit! It helps me keep up with my goals!! I love the reminders!! So far I’ve been hitting 10,000+ steps a day!! Feel so much better!!! ❤

  • I got my fitbit 2 weeks ago and managed 77,000 on week 1 and over 100,000 week 2. I worked really hard. However I have just realised that you can cheat by just gently moving your arm back and forth. Disappointing as I know I am weak willed enough to sometimes do this as I do on the jogging session on my Wii Fit. I will try to forget I know this !

  • My steps show up on the Fitbit, but by day’s end it goes to 0 on the app – what’s wrong? Last 3 days have had close to 30,000 each; end of day it shows 0? Help!!

  • Hi I am an regular walker and achieve 10000 step at a stretch in the morning and in whole day complete 20 k minimum. It has really help in many ways

  • Completely wrong to say 10,000 steps is roughly equivalent to the 30 mins per day guideline.

    10000 steps equals about 5 miles. 30 mins equals about 1.5 miles.

  • One time when I went hiking I got over 25,000 steps!! It was a ten mile trail up a steep mountain in New Hampshire! I was exhausted at the end of the day 🙂

  • 10,000 steps is a great goal, but what good is a goal when your Fitbit fails to record the correct number of steps? My 10,112 steps yesterday was recorded as 6,346 steps. Do you want the watch back?

  • I do 20,000 steps plus a day love it it makes me keep movin keep it up all just keep moving and your get the steps in I get mine in by going on my cross trainer and walking my dog every day Wooooop

  • I try to do 12,000 steps a day…usually I reach the magic number of 10,000…fitbit “encourage” me in a way to set and reach my goal…!!!
    1,000 steps in 10-12 minutes…it’s very easy…!!!
    Thanks my elder son for this watch, a smart and an excellent Christmas gift…!!!

  • I began using my blaze on Feb 24, 2017 and have worked my way up to average nearly 15k steps a day, burning a minimum 2000 calories. I can see a difference in my overall muscle tone and my waistline. Where there’s a will there’s a way. LOVE my Fitbit!!

  • I do 10 thousand steps a day it is hard for me on the weekends I need sujections or tips on how to get this done I average 12 thousand a day and I feel better and have more energy I walk at work and go to the park when I get off work I am 72 next month Mary

    • I just recharged my Fitbit after a long hiatus. I’ve had both knees replaced in a 2-year period and my recovery was very good. I’m retraining my mind to see how much better moving is as I age. Good and bad days… but Fitbit keeps me motivated

  • I love my fitbit, makes me step out more, shows me how many steps i take when i play 18 holes of golf , even whenbk go straight down the middle of the course

  • To encourage Pat and Glo below recovering from major surgery, in the span of 6 years I had cancer twice with prostate and colon surgeries 2 years apart and 6 months chemo, plus open heart surgery 2 years later. I exercised by walking as much I could through it all, and now 10 years later I’m averaging 10k steps/day. Yesterday I did 13K. Do the best you can each day. Drop by drop wears a hole in the rock. Oh, and I’m 71!

  • My old Fitbit counted every step and recorded it to my dashboard. My new one records on my band but not all record to my dashboard. Why?

  • I have a desk job, but once an hour, I get up to walk the perimeter of the shop floor. It only takes about 7 minutes and it really helps me get in at least 10,000 steps!

  • It’s been over a year now since I got my Fitbit and started my 10,000 steps. It’s great to be out exercising in the fresh air walking different areas to achieve my goal. My motto: “I walk for my health”.

  • Keep up the great work people! I started out at 8,000 steps now I do up to 20,000 steps in a day and I was hospitalized a year ago due to major spine injury. Do what you can…it all counts!!!

  • I’m 70 years old and started fitbiting on Christmas morning. I am a heart patient having had 2 heart attacks and living with 3 stents. I aim for 10,000 or more a day. In the 4 months I have been doing this I have lost 10 pounds and feel alive. If I can do it you can too.

    • Congrats and God bless you to be able to walk so much; I am much younger than you are, and 7,000 steps are a struggle to me and thanks God I do not have any real problems.

    • As many as you can. They say 10,000 as a mantra. No one research it. The same they say to drink 8 cups of water per day, without thinking that no one research it. Someone said it and all other follow.

  • I am doing my 10’000 steps a day I’m trying my best to be fit I managed to loose some weight but now it’s stoped I just can’t get anymore weight of what am I doing wrong. Plus wen Iv done my steps the miles only say 4.something & not 5 is this wrong as Iv read 10’000 = 5 miles ?

    • Hi Karen. That is very impressive. I am 65 and got mine in January. Haven’t made it to 10000 a day yet but close. I have COPD and my breathing seems to be getting better.

  • So I have been apart of Fitbit nation for about 3 years. Everyone in my Weight Watcher group has aFitbit we challenge each other,friends and family and anyone who dares step into our insane walking avengers group.
    When I first started walking 10000 steps was a chore but today I walk 20,000 steps or more every day and feel GREAT!

  • That is a great challenge to get walkers motivated. I’m up for the challenge just to see if I can do it.

  • Great to do 10k-a-day, however it’s the worst feeling when the battery runs out or you forget the FitBit is on charge……. seriously helped me with my wellbeing as much as my physical health!

  • I have just got my Fitbit, I turned 60 recently, and wanted to get fit, I am hitting 10,000 steps most days. I am so enjoying getting fit with my little buddy on my arm.

  • I’m able to do this for several days here in Japan. I know it’s good but I have pain on both my big toes and right heel. I hope this can be addressed so that I can fulfill the 10,000 steps a day

  • I love my Fitbit , because it motivates me each day ….I don’t always reach my goal of steps but I do most days

  • Whenever I forward my walking statistics which is set as KM, it shows as miles. For instance, a 14000 steps shows as 10 KM, but when i forward it sows as 10 miles.

  • I have connected with 5 other people who have fitbits and we challenge one another each week and sometimes on weekends. I walk exclusively and also got myself a walk buddy, my dog. With all this motivation I have been averaging 15k to 20 k a day. My goal is 100k next week. I am in the military so u less and maintain. A certain. Weight and stay below a certain BMI they can bounce me out and I would be at risk of losing two retirements. Also my kids are at an age where grandbabors are in the next 5 years and I want to be as healthy as possible. By September 2018 my goal is to be 158 lbs. I am now 175 at 5’6″. I hope this motivates at least one person. The fit bit had Done it for me. I can’t let my fellow challengers win! I keep encouraging people to get one and every hour walk a minimum of 250 steps. It does work

  • I got mine for my birthday dont even want to take it of to charge it love it one of the best things I got justcant leave it down not hitting my target yet but I will soon

  • I find I hit 10,000 everyday while caring for my 4 small grandchildren! My advice? Have more kids or avoid a job that makes you sit all day. Either way, you’ll be happier and healthier.

  • I am senior with RA and osteoarthritis in both knees. I am pleased to have worked up to 5000 a day now. On days I do more I can barely move the next day. My Fitbit keeps me motivated though.

  • Hi. I am 63 and am a patient of arthritis and diabetes. I do roughly 56000 steps a week in which I take one day complete break. My steps vary from 10000 to 8000 to 5000 per day. 1)Is it ok or should I push myself to do 10000 steps week. 2) ok to walk 6 days of a week ? Thanks

  • Due to an employer challenge for the month of April, I’m now aiming for 10000 steps each day! The Parilchalle he is now over, but setting a personal challenge to continue this going forward.

  • My goal is 20,000 a day or 140,000 a week. I don’t remember the last time i didn’t get 140,000 In a week. Now if
    I stop late night snacking I will be good.

  • I aim for 20,000
    A day or over 140,000 a week. I don’t remember the last time I didn’t make my goal. If I could only control my late night snacking.

  • Just got my fit bit yesterday 5/1 for my birthday.
    My fitbit is telling me I have done 617 steps since I’ve been up 45 minutes ago? Don’t make any sense.

  • I love this Fitbit I have! It keeps me on my toes and it’s a great motivator. I’ve had mine now about a month and a half I believe. Just last week I hit over 100,000 steps, it’s crazy! I had the added benefit of my week of the gym(5 days a week) plus going to the beach for the weekend.
    Just got to keep going!
    That’s the goal!
    That’s the plan!

  • I am 76 and usually hit close to 10,000 steps/ day and the other day hit 16,000, most of this is from raking, and gardening and a house with lots of stairs

  • Feeling really grate now. Am clocking an average of 12000 steps , with inlyca slight change in lifestyle. You should try it too. My doctor is also very happy as I am containing my sugar levels below110 fasting.

  • I have been doing 10,000 steps for about 3 months now and have definitely seen an improvement in my health and activity level.

  • I started at 10,000 steps a day at christmas, now up to 21,000 i love having the targets, it really motivates me to just push that little bit more, so hooked iv told my kids i would like an upgraded model for my 60th birthday

  • i love my new fitbit as it gives me a great sense of achievement and my sleep has improved… Jo

  • 3 of us walked the same distance but all have different numbers, how does this happen? we all have the same stride.

  • It seems that by just moving my arms and type at work that it is adding to my steps. This does not seem correct. I would like to only monitor true steps taken. Maybe I don’t understand my Fitbit yet ??

  • I’m 70 1/2 and retired. Had a heart transplant in 09. I’m averaging over 20,000 steps a day. Start stepping!!!

  • I’m very competitive and although I’m 68 years old I will not let anybody younger go ahead of me in my friends list. I don’t go to bed at night till I get my 10,000 or more steps in. My fit bit has motivated me to keep going and stay healthy it is the best gift I’ve ever received.

    • Its not all the way accurate i wake up with like 50 steps when I haven’t done anything yet and when i ride my horse it counts her steps as mine!!

  • It is my understanding that the Japanese word for pedometer is manpokei, which means 10,000 steps. It was not a goal and it was not intended to sell the pedometer but rather that is the word. However, the American Medical Association states that under 5,000 steps is considered sedentary there is no proof that 10,000 steps is necessarily meaningful. But, I have to say in my experience having a Fitbit motivates me to get moving for heart health. What’s to lose? So whether or not the AMA suggests 10,000 per day I certainly see that as attainable & worthwhile!

  • My goal during the work week is 20,000 steps a day and I have an office job which requires sitting most of the 8 hours. I walk on my breaks/lunch and go to the gym regularly. Anything is possible when you put your mind to it!

  • I love my Fitbit and am trying to meet the daily goal of 10000 steps but I am almost 82 years old and since Christmas (when I received my Fitbit) I have kept my goal at 8000 but have many times hit 10,000. My question is should I raise my daily goal or just keep it as is ???

  • Did not think I was active enough but after getting my Fitbit I saw that I surpassed 10,000 steps in a day quite easily – so now I have set my goal two 14,000 steps a day… This goal takes a little more effort. Great motivator!

  • I’ve had my Fitbit for a week. Could barely get to 3,000 steps a day but made 5,000 on yesterday. What a great feelin. Working towards 7,500.

  • I’ve had my Fitbit 13 days and just read the 10,000 steps a day to improve your health. Today is the first day I did it and I’m going to try to keep it up and do better.

  • Not sure I understand the math here 5 miles in 30 minutes is 6 miles per minute. That’s winning the NYC marathon speed.

    When I started this a year ago (and I’m very thankful for Fitbit… I even got my 5000 steps in when hospitalized for heart surgery) I was lucky to walk 500 steps. Now 110 pounds lighter I’m up to 3 miles in 40 minutes. I’ll soon get to 5 miles a day but not in 30 minutes.

  • With a list of health problems at 50 years old I have been able to monitor my improvements through Fitbit to help me shape up and firstly get off one of my heart beta blockers and secondly head towards a better fitness in preperation for a bilateral hip replacement in a few weeks time. This also motivated me to quitting smoking after 37 years, it’s never just one thing that changes your life but it’s fair to say that Fitbit has certainly helped in this process. Here’s to a quick recovery and then perhaps move onto 15,000 steps a day in several months time

  • I only bought my Fitbit on Friday and I can see and feel the difference already by doing over my 10,000 steps a day . Love it

  • Been under a week since I got mine averaging 17000 best day was yesterday 27000 steps amazed by how many steps I do in my day to day living already addicted great motivation

  • Fitbit is pretty nice. I don’t use it as much as I thought, but I always try and set my goal for 10,00 steps.

  • I am 76 years young, pretty fit. Should my goal auto be 10,000 steps? I will reach this when I have a lot of stops in a day & walk everywhere but not evetyday.

  • I can achieve 10000, but have changed my goal to 8000, as I find that more realistic for me.
    I will slowly increase as my lifestyle is changing.

  • My 2 kitchen jobs and yard work gives me my steps. I try for 16500 every day and May 22 had over 39000 steps

  • I’m 80 and I’m fairly good health. Originally aimed for 10k. Rarely made it. I think a minimum of 5k is a better goal for some of us retirees. Almost always go over and feel great when I overachieve. Which is frequently.

  • I have no will power am overweight and smoke but I’ve had this two days and am walking more and hitting the 10k target, drinking the water I need and checking what I eat.
    It seems to motivate me so I give it a big thumbs up 🙂

  • I a 1 1/2 i have lost 63 lbs with fitbit. I love this bracelet though on my 2 nd.
    I now have my husband withs bracelet and is doing so well. But the greatest thing was my hudband telling me i was an inspiration to him, the biggest gift of all for me!! I’m telling my story to everyone i meet. You can do it too!!!

  • I have had my goal as 10,000 steps while on my European eight week holiday. Doing that easily and can double that on a good day.

  • Thanks for 10,000 steps. My Fitbit reminds me that it is time to walk towards my goal. I know I really need this in my life. I’ve noticed a great change

  • I have COPD stage four so I started with 1000 steps in today I’m very proud I did 1900 steps and tomorrow I’ll try for 2000

  • You need to adjust your information; you state that 10,000 steps a day is roughly equivalent to 5 miles and a half hour of activity a day. Most people can sustain a walk at 2-4 miles in an hour. That math does not work with your statements.

  • I just set mine up yesterday. I noticed that yesterday I accumulated way more “steps” than I actually took. Is this normal? It seems to add steps just when moving around while at my desk.

  • Just got my Fitbit and really keen to up my game after a replacement knee operation
    Can’t believe I have done 5 k today with little or no effort

  • Fitbit is amazing. I’ve even had the Apple Watch but still went back to the Fitbit as I found it more encouraging. It defintely a good at encouraging you to move around more!

  • I do over 10,000 steps a day every day . I can’t not do 10,000 steps a day it is my goal everyday no matter what the day brings

  • How long does a person need to walk for to get to 10,000 steps I usually go for a long walk on either Sunday or Saturday morning often about 1.5 hours and often just make 10,000 steps and that pure walking. I’ve remember when the campaign first came to Australia they were saying it should take you a half an hour a day? Just curious seems unfair if you’ve got long legs take longer strides?

  • I need help. Site was not recording steps on old Fitbit flex. Bought Fitbit glex2 yesterday. Site recording nothing. I wasn’t able to find help last time. Nothing has changed. Does anyone know how I can find help with this?

  • I am not getting the same reading as my girlfriends. We just took a walk and their results showed that we had walked about 12,000 steps and mine read 9,500. Their miles showed 6 plus miles and mine showed 4 plus miles. I don’t know why such a big difference and we are walking together.

  • Why does the pedometer in my pocket record an average of 1600 more steps a day than my Fitbit? Anyone have an answer ?

  • Today, I did 19,245 steps in 2-hrs and 13 minutes of fast walking. How can I calculate mileage other than driving the same route afterwards like I did today. 9.3 miles I walked. 19, 245 steps. Does this seem accurate?

  • I attend two local bootcamp classes a week one for 45 mins while body workout and the other one is an hour long all over body to I try my best to also do 10,000 steps a day

  • I will start over. How can I change back my Fitbit’s Goal to 10,000 steps? I have been doing 13K to 20K every day. I had changed my goal to 8K when I was in a slump 2 mths ago. Pls help

  • Hi 10000 steps is a magic figure. It cures all problems of the body and you will get good sleep.

  • What I don’t understand if you stand idle and just move your arms they count as steps, that shouldn’t be, while roacking my Granddaughter it added many steps??????

  • I will do 10K steps 5 days a week. My doctor has encouraged me to continue with my exercises. My latest health assessment is good!

  • Since I got my Fitbit it has really changed my life. I sleep in it I push myself daily to reach 10,000 steps. I have more energy and I love the get up and move.

  • Unbelievable, doing 13560 steps per day(working to the office everyday and running 3 times a week). Before that I was almost at 0… basically I was a couch potato!!! This device has completely changed my life!! Next goal 15000 a day…

    • Mine seems to add steps as well I’ve been wondering what’s causing it! Even during sleep … I awake and have like 145 steps already done lol. I was wondering why! I’m a restless sleeper .. could it be me shifting around in bed at night? Hummmmm!

  • I found an easy way to build in quite a few steps. When I go to our area Meijer super store, I park in the very last spot. Then upon entering, I was around the perimeter of the store once before grabbing my cart to shop. My husband got me in the habit of doing this.

  • I had a hip replacement in Feb of 2017. I am now walking 30 or more miles per week and tracking it with fit bit. It really helped me to motivate myself!

  • Yay! 144k steps this week. I have found that it seems easier to hit my goal when I’m washing dishes, doing laundry, or other stuff around the house, as opposed to running or walking. Anybody else notice this?

  • If you are sick how does the Fitbit give you an accurate account of your day’s activity along with your sleep.

  • since i have a charge II i had changed my life in many items. i am drinking much more so that i reach often 2 liters. i am much more aktive and i try to make 10000 steps each day. also i try to make 250 steps each houre and i don’t take the lift since i have it. it’s motivating so much. my wife has also one and we fight eachother. its funny.

  • I walk 10000 steps per day while walking during my job I had a heart attack 2 years ago. Hope this helps me in my efforts to stay healthy

  • I love my Fitbit! It encourages me and gives me that nudge to get up and move! I have found that my Fitbit is the incentive needed each day for my general well being! Thank you!

  • Usually log anywhere from 13,000 to 18,000 steps/day by walking the dog. While in Europe on vacation, maxed at 25,000 steps in one day. Walked from hotel to Effiel Tower then on to Champs D’Elyse and back to hotel. In Australia maxed at 29,0000!

  • I noticed my fit bit is a great motivator, on a really good day, I may hit my 10,000.00 by noon. I have a sit down job, but always walking around!!!

  • I got Fitbit because I have Parkinson’s disease! I was in a coma from CO2 build up in my brain and was never to walk again! I walk, with severe Scoliosis too 10,000 steps and more! It is not easy but I want to prove we can walk if we really want it to happen! I learned to write, spell and type without help! I CAN dance because it is so important to my life! I walked because my Grandkids are the inspiration for my life!!!

  • I love the Fitbit I challenge myself to see how many steps I can achieve also do challenges with others to stay on my toes!

  • I am doing my target of 10000 steps per day and my health is very good now.

  • Hello their how are we all I’m up for this 10,000 steps Challenge look forward to a hopefully making new friends

  • I always try to start by 6:30 Am and walk for just over an hour. My milage rate is 2065 steps per mile so I try and push that up a little. For a nearly 76 year old this works well and have lost about one pound per week. Having doable goals seems reasonable and something most older folks should strive for.

  • My Fitbit just quit working while we were on vacation and it says Fitbit.com/setup on the screen and I do not how to fix it or what needs to be done. Please help!!’

  • I finally reached 10,000 steps for the first time today. I thought it impossible when I first started counting steps. Now I want to do it again tomorrow

  • Having a hard time getting motivated I am 83 and 84 in October. There is nothing to do in this town to get me walking more and don’t want to join a senior group I fractured my hip and have screws and a plate to hold the hip together. Pain from it dulls my desire to walk plus I use a walker. I enjoy reading all the success stories and maybe someday that will be me. Good luck everyone. Jean

  • After feeling the need to exercise to lie down til the feeling passes I have found that 10000 steps a day is not as hard as I thought

  • I counted my steps to compare with Fitbit count. When I walk outside my count is at least 20% greater than that shown on Fitbit but when I walk inside the house, the Fitbit count is abou 10% lower. Any explanation?

  • Can anyone tell me a little more about how steps work? When I sleep and awake in the a.m. my tracker already has steps added on…. do these devices track steps eveytime you shift around while sleeping?

  • If I sit down and move my hands about, this gets registered as steps. If I move my feet up and down but keep my hands still, there is no change in the number of steps. So this to a certain extent explains the discrepancy is step counting when I walk inside the house (I do move my hands about) and when I walk outside (I tend to keep my hands cross in the front or the back). Has anyone else noticed this effect? Also in my case 10000 steps equates to 6.4 km not 8km.

  • How do you update or change your daily step goal? This feature is no longer available in settings? I would like to change my goal from 5,000 to 10,000 steps.

  • There is more to exercise than taking steps. A day on the allotment doesn’t create many steps but is a lot of exercise.

  • Hey 🙂

    I have a thyroid disorder (made me gain 70 lbs) and I’ve found my Fitbit HR to be amazing… I used to get really bad chest flutters and the doctors would always put me on 32hr chest monitors – but nothing would come up. Doctors started questioning me and thinking maybe I was only stressing myself. Well the Fitbit did exactly what I needed – it not only recorded each episode I had but also the intensity and time. I went back to the doctors and they were able to properly treat me.

    I’ve struggles with weight because of my thyroid – but buying a Fitbit helps big time and I started using the 21 day fix food containers…. needless to say – the pounds are coming off 🙂 they are a phenomenal combination and I would recommend it to everyone wanting to lose weight and feel better overall!

    Happy steps everyone ❤️

  • New to fitbit altra. How do I change miles to steps on my fitbit? I have looked at all settings….? I can see it online.

  • I have to walk over 8 miles at a 14min a mile pace to get 10,000 steps. I have tried every step length & still no change.. feeling lost!

  • I have been walking a lot specially on my job, the first time that I reach the 10.000 steps it was just after two hours of work. I was so happy and excited to know how much steps a day I make. Thanks for Fitbit

  • At the end of the day 25-38 thousand steps are taken from me does anyone know why ? I am averaging 31.000 to 37.000 daily but my total steps go from 250.00 to 217.000 ???

  • I too noticed that my Fitbit adds steps when I move my arms, while my feet are not in motion. How can this be accurately counting my steps then?

  • Have had both knees replaced and was ill with newly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis in March . Have had Fitbit to 18 mths and love it . Keeps me active !!

  • I seem to wake up in the morning with 300 steps. I don't understand that? Can anyone help? Mindy says:

    I seem to wake up in the morning with 300 steps. I don’t understand that? Can anyone help?

  • I’ve had my Fitbit just over a week & it’s certainly motivating me. I’ve started to walk, not drive to work on most days

  • My fit bit will not track when I bike 10 miles? This is frustrating that I have to walk 5 miles then bike in a day

  • I started with 10k and bumped it up to 12k four days ago. It’s funny how much I look forward to the stars and rockets going off each night. What a great little motivator for me.

  • I love it on the days I Zumba
    When I got more than 5000 in 1 hr
    So I kind of an over achiever everyday
    Lol. Now I got addicted to be OA!!!
    Oh and I love to see that I drink plenty of water everyday too

    • To adjust your steps. Go to the activity tab in your app in the settings areas and it should let you adjust your steps there

  • Since I rejoined the fit bit family, I’ve made it my daily personal goal to hit these steps. It makes me feel better mentally, even if I’m having a stressful day.

  • I would love to wallet
    10,000steps a day, bit I am 76 trarsi old with Osreoarthritis in dif parts of muy body
    I try my best

  • I walked 22,782 steps today ,about 8.3 miles , my Fitbit kept me motivated when I saw the numbers going up and up
    Love my new toy!

  • Fitbit motivates me & I over did it: with my bone disease, I have to limit my walking! Dont neglect your feet, fellow fitbit-ers !

  • I’m at the Fitbit routine a week and have achieved my 8,000 target but will I find the time to make 10,000 a day?
    Any tips,you Fitbit fans?
    Joel.

    • Think it’s just about making small changes where you can. For me, I stopped taking the car everywhere, or taking the stairs instead of the lift. Plus, if I haven’t got my steps in on a certain day, I go for a walk in the evening, so I can make it up. Depends how determined you are to hit the 10,000 steps.

  • Had my Fitbit for 7 months now, and it’s great. Motivates me to get active, and find myself less sitting in front of a tv all evening, and going walking instead. Have lost 1.5 stones since I started. Feel so much better in myself. The Fitbit has been a great buy.

  • Just upped my daily to 12,000. I’m a executive chef in busy kitchen I seem to reach my goal almost daily due to the nature of being on my feet 9-10hrs

  • Since I got the Fitbit I have changed my life style a lot. I am eating healthier and my wife are both exercising more. Plan to incorporate weight training into my daily regime

  • The Fitbit was a gift from my daughter. The results have been incredible. I was 6 2, weight was 208, waist 36. After a year, my weight is down to 185, and waist reduced to a 34. Strength comes from within. Keep your eyes on the prize!!! Sending positive inspiration to all.

  • I got my Fitbit for Mothers Day and I’m totally obsessed with making sure I hit that 10k mark everyday! It’s a great way to keep active and I love that it does motivate you and remind you how many steps you have left in the hour to stay on track! Can’t live without my Fitbit!! Thank you to my amazing children Maddox,Malachi,Logan,Olivia and Alissa

  • this article says 10,000 steps is equal to 30 min of exercise?! who the hell can run 5 miles in 30 minutes?! Bull

  • My charger doesn’t count my steps most of the time. I’ve reset it several times with the same result. On sleeping mode, I have to manually set it to count my sleeping time after I press ” I’m awake ” when I wake up

  • My new UltaHR Fitbit only registers miles walked, not steps. Does anyone know how this can be changed?

    Barb

  • I love my Fitbit. I can truly say 5000 steps was a struggle at one point and now 10,000 steps daily is a piece of cake! The key is to move when you think you shouldn’t! I move while folding clothes, washing dishes and I have a dish washer. I even jog in place while I’m waiting for my patients to exit out bathrooms so that I can assist them back to bed! When I’m ready to take it up a little notch I turn on some music and dance! It really works

  • Last week I did a lot of walked for 1 week….. about 130,000 steps. I think I did too much for 1 week. Is that healthy or bad!!!!!

  • Fit bit has made me challenge myself everyday. Within 2 weeks I am exceeding 10,000 steps per day!!!! I feel fantastic !!!

  • 10,000 steps daily is my goal, however I don’t always make it, but a lot of days I surpass that number by quite a bit. My Fitbit keeps me attuned to the magic number. I’m 78 now!

  • With the Fit Bit I try to hit the 10000 steps a day, which I usually don’t but the days I do it makes me so happy

  • To avoid my arm movements from altering the numbers, I actually wear a larger size band on my ankle. I don’t like the restrictive feeling on my wrists either. So it’s a win win. It feels more accurate too.

  • Can’t wait to see how much cleaning hotel rooms and hour long walks pile up. Want to see how long it takes to rack up two thousand miles.

  • Fitbit can help to reach that goal of 10k steps BUT BE AWARE that when you have the Fitbit in Esther of your wrist the Fitbit will count an step EVERY TIME YOU MOVE YOUR HAND!! It’s way far off so I don’t think there’s a matching that accurate count your steps. If you have a better idea please let me know !

    Thanks

  • I need to know, why my Fitbit flex 2 does not sync on my tablet according to my actual steps? My Fitbit vibrates when I reached 10,000 steps, but when I check my tablet on my Fitbit app I still have to do at least round 1,500 steps. I have done every thing I have to do, but it stays the same. I am really not happy with this product.
    Regards
    Petrus (Tokkie) Swarts

  • I have used the 10,000 step goal for several years and often exceed it. My question is about the age factor. Has the American Heart Association focused on whether the goal should be the same for all ages? Have they factored any other attributes that may be relevant?

  • 6 months it’s taken me to get to my goal of 10,000 steps a day , I’ve lost 4 stone in weight I now live a muc healthier lifestyle, my fit. It keeps me motivated .

  • I’ve been fit bitting for about 3 years. Started at 10,000 now 13,000 and most days over that. Very motivational.
    I’m 70 in January. Haven’t lost weight – don’t know why but bmi in normal range.
    Keep fitbitting!

  • Received my Fitbit a few days ago. I just love it!!! My friend was right, it sure motivates you. Can’t wait to reach my goal.

  • I have great for arthritis in both knees so there’s days that I just can’t get to 10,000 steps however I do push myself to do at least 8000 every day even when I am in a lot of pain. This amounts to more than 40 minutes of exercise and thanks to my fit bit I can push myself and knowI’m getting results

  • Great motivator…started on Aug’15th. averaging 13,000 steps /day and not below 10,000/ day Earlier I used to walk about 45 minutes every day. Now I know my daily goal..

  • I have built myself up to10000 steps over 8mths during the time I have lost 14.5 kilos in weight 7cm of waist feel good reduced my glucose to 5.5 from 6.9 I am 79.6 yrs old . I highly recommend the goal

  • My twin and I have been with Fitbit for almost 6 yrs now. We compete with each other on who can get the most steps in a day. It is a fun thing to do but it also keeps us both motivated and very active in the process. We both were in Curves for 5 yrs. until we moved and now it is to far to drive so that is why we joined Fitbit. We will be 70 yrs old in Oct. 2017 and I have to admit we fill better than some 30 yr olds. We love it.

  • I love my Fitbit. I look forward to walking each day. I even walked 20,000 steps in one day. I think I am addicted to my Fitbit.

  • I think I got started Sept 15th 2017. I am amazed at how exciting it was to jump in. My average per week of walking were about 15 miles a week. The week after I joined, 42 miles, this week after today I will probably end at 60 miles!!!! Don’t wait start today make friends and Rock those steps!!!

  • Ugh it’s really terrible because I exercise a lot with sports but I am not allowed to wear my Fitbit during the game. Sometimes on days I have a game I only get to about 6,000 steps!

  • At what number to set your goal is an exercise in futility until the Fitbit 2 begins counting steps correctly.
    I have tried every suggestion that I could find so far and my Fitbit 2 still considers me a marathon runner daily.

  • Got one for my wife over 2 years ago. She usually hits the 10,000 steps goal every day she works (5-6 days a week) and nothing has changed at all. Not her weight, size, BMI, energy levels, or anything. So 10,000 steps not really all that “magical” as advertised above.

  • Is this article saying you should do 10,000 steps in 30 minutes?
    It said 10,000 steps should equate to Surgeon General’s recommendation of 30 minutes daily activity.

  • I am having trouble tracking my steps on my phone. My fit bit shows that after my Zumba class I am 3/4 to my 10,000
    Steps but on my phone it says only about 390. ????

  • I seem to do a lot of walking just sitting in my chair. All I have to do is crochet an the Fitbit tacks on steps. It added an extremely 10,000 steps the other day. Boy did I sleep well that night.

  • I’ve been walking an average of 10,000 steps a day for the past 6 months and health, both physical and mental, have improved significantly. Bravo for the recommendation!

  • How do u update the Fitbit if the battery went dead the whole day and I didn’t realize it was not tracking my steps?

    • I live in MN and with the snow & ice, I can’t risk walking outside so I do it in my townhouse. I do use a treadmill a couple of times a day but mostly just walk in circles or up & down stairs. Today I walked a total of 9 miles which makes people laugh and it’s wearing out my carpet but I’m 74 and I’m healthier than I’ve been in a long time.

  • I am 82 years old. There needs to be a reasonable scale that takes age into consideration.

    My daily goal is 5,000 steps and while I often get up to 10,000 steps. I am happy when I can get my weekly numbers over 40,000.
    I have lost 50 lbs walking and getting off all sugars

  • The 2010 study you link to does not show “conclusive health benefits” to 10,000 steps a day—it does not even set out to determine whether this regime has health benefits or not. It is simply a study about the implementation of a corporate exercise program and its effects on participants’ sense of motivation and wellbeing.

  • The Fitbit demonstrated to me how little I was walking and the periods of time at work I never moved from my desk. It has completely changed my approach to how I manage my day. I rely on it a lot

  • Have been getting my 10k everyday for almost a year. I am now trying for 12,000 most days of the week. Trying to improve my health numbers.

  • I guess it’s ok if you just run in place? You of course can spread it out through out the day. I hope. I just had 20 mins to get to 10,000. I was at 7200. I ran in place for 15 mins. Just missed my goal. I got up to 9817.

  • Hey! I got my new Fitbit just before New Years and I’m so happy, because not only is it a new year, but now I can set so many new goals with this amazing technology! I love everything about it.
    It’s already changed my lifestyle so much and I’m already living a much happier, healthier life. Thank you Fitbit!!!❤️❤️

  • My hubby gave me the FitBit Charge 2 as a Christmas present. I made 10K + steps today. Yeah me. I feel good. I am more conscious of moving my body by walking. My first week I barely made 2K steps a day. I am also more conscious of getting proper sleep. I was only sleeping 4 hours a night. My goal is 8 hours and I am steadily improving. I love my new Fit Bit.

  • I loved my Fitbit Zip but it was rather basic. Upgraded recently to an Alta HR and find it really good. I like the fact it reminds me to get up and move (because otherwise I wouldn’t) and my best so far is over 25,000 in one day

  • Are you saying that 10000 steps should be the goal of a 70 year old as well as a 20 year old? Does not make sense to me. What is realistic for a 70 year old?

  • 10,000 steps a day is not as hard as one might think. That being said, it does take some effort. I find that I can walk around the mall ( I have a route there I always do) it takes me about an hour and a half give or take a few minutes. But it’s a five mile walk (10,000 steps approx). I also feel better after

  • Yesterday I hit 10,000 steps! Have been doing 8,000 most days but instead of sitting watching TV last night whenever a commercial came on I got up and walked the length of the condo, back and forth during the commercial…oh and by the way I’m 81….❤️Love my Fitbit

  • I can’t help it I don’t even try and I always get over 20,000 steps and I’m not even doing anything except my daily routine

  • Just got my charge 2 and noticed when at my desk my steps go up from arm movement can it be changed so only maps my actual steps?

  • Just got my charge 2 and noticed when at my desk my steps go up from arm movement can it be changed so only maps my actual steps? This is my first posting

  • My Fitbit seems to think I’m walking when I’m knitting so I don’t feel I can trust it’s measuring steps correctly

  • So, I’m sometimes compulsive about things, which is really the case about my Blaze and the 10k steps thing! Yesterday was day 330 of consecutive 10k+ steps (actually 16k yesterday) and headed for a year as my second goal (90 days was first to establish the habit!). I sleep way better, eat whatever I want and am calmer! I also noticed that I spend 1+ hrs in deep sleep per night, which I think is why I feel awesome when I awaken! My FitBit has really helped me change my life!

  • I’m having trouble with my iPad not counting my steps what should I do any help will be appreciated! Thanks

  • I rarely go anywhere without my Fitbit. I have seen considerable improvement personally but I do find that the screen is a little too fragile. I broke mine with a gentle tap.

  • I have been so slow in my recovery efforts. Finally now after 24 months of bilateral foot drop l am able to embrace the 10000 steps for the last 4 days straight my ankles are working again and without any AFO or walking aid. Each step hurts very much, but there is no pill or pain medication in the world for it. So l breathe with pleasure once again. Thanks Fit Bit Ionic

  • 10,000 steps a day is really hard but I suppose it’s a challenging goal, I walk an average of 5,855 steps a day in 2 miles so for me to walk 10,000 miles I would literally have to walk around my town at least once! Maybe twice!

  • I’m 85 in two weeks and this is my fourth Fitbit so that tell u I can’t do with out. I average 5, to 8, a day. Sometimes 10, I’m working on 10, a day after my broken foot is better. However I average these numbers on my broken foot

  • Help! My Fitbit one tracker is tracking my steps, but my iPhone is not. Anyone have any ideas how to fix this?

  • Since having my Fitbit I have lost 4 stone in weight, I aim for 10,000 a day but seem to be hitting 12,000 most days, can’t do fast paced exercise due to health issues so using my Fitbit to encourage activity I can do is good for my body and mind as I can do it.

  • I need to change the email. The one you have is incorrect and I therefore do not receive notifications from you. Help!

  • Can say that the best way to save on your medical & health bills is just simply walk, walk & walk, and it doesn’t hurt.

  • Since the time i purchased fitbit, i kept my goal of 6000 steps, then when i could achieve this within a week, i increased it to 8000 and then after a week a new goal of 10000 was set, and i have been crossing 10000 every day since last 2 weeks, except the one rest day a week. Fitbit has been a motivating factor indeed, thanks fitbit.

  • Had my Fitbit 2weeks now and love it! I’ve normally done my 10,000 steps by 12oclock! I have a physical job and have been doing 19,000 steps a day which I would have never have guessed I was covering so many miles

  • Hey since I bought my Fitbit I have made a lifestyle change. I am more aware of things and it keeps me moving! ‍♀️ Thanks Fitbit

  • When I began this journey I had no idea how much I walked at my job. I found out that I average the 10,000 steps a day just by being attentive to taking the long way to get from place to place. I am a behavior coach st an elementary school. All these steps have sure helped me to be positive and joyful.

  • I try to average 17200 steps a day. It gives me about 120,000 steps a week. Went from 178 lbs. to 170 lbs. but can’t seem to lose any more weight. Getting my exercise but still eating too much junk food. Healthy eating is my next project.

  • Got my Fitbit for Christmas & can’t think of a better way to exercise. Joined up with a couple of work friends & we have our own league to see who does the most each week. Use of the gym helps with the fat burn. Use to running half marathons but find this exercise easier on the legs but still lose weight.

  • Im 57 and have arthritis in my joints. 10000 is to hard for me i do 5000 and its sore but works for me

  • My Fitbit has motivated me to move more and I love it! I don’t think I would even try to move if I was without it.

  • My fit bit isn’t counting my steps right! Ever. I’ve counted myself never the same amount and how do I turn this off. It charges and doesn’t last long so what is an option?? I’m very disappointed in. $100 product.

    • No it’s just minimum , if you walk 10k is better but being active or 30
      Mins of activity is must to stay fit. Usually if you walk with bit pace you need 1 hour and 15 mins to complete 10k.

  • I haven’t worn my fitbit for several months due to illness. I don’t know how to reset the time or date. My grandchild set it when I got it. I am 77 years old and need help with very simple directions. I hope someone can guide me with this.

  • I haven’t worn my fitbit for several months due to illness. I don’t know how to reset the time or date. My grandchild set it when I got it. I am 77 years old and need help with very simple directions. I hope someone can guide me with this.

  • Anyone having trouble with Fitbit steps dunking with phone. I downloaded update and uninstalled and reinstalled ionic and it is still not syncing???

  • I started out with 8,000 steps a day work up to 10,000 now I have more energy and stamina to go forward to reach 15,000 steps is my goal.

  • The Fitbit has pushed me to do more than I ever have! Once I reach 10,000 steps, I push to see if I can get to 15,000 and beyond! The most I have done so far is 17,698 steps! Love the Fitbit!

  • Thanks to the Fitbit I have been keeping up with my workouts. I dance, sing, run and bike with my family. Having the 10,000 steps challenge has helped me out a ton! Thanks!!

  • I used to not get 10,000 steps, but then I started getting more active and I can see myself getting thinner and thinner…. It’s 7 am and I’ve already run 2.5 miles and gotten 5,000 steps! Doing the Yosemite Vernal Falls solo adventure :))

  • I broke my hip 8 weeks ago and would appreciate not being told to step it up to 10,000. I did that before I broke my hip.

  • I love my Fitbit , I suffer from a chronic condition and it’s help me get fit I just do the best I can , everyday is a bonus

  • I am doing 10k everyday , my mind won’t letting me sleep if I don’t do.
    It’s very effective I found with my body. I become more active through out the day.

    I found my weight constant or reducing with 10k steps atleast a day without any diet. Now since a couple of days targeting 15k a day and let’s see I I can reduce some weight and stay fit.

  • I am 65yrs old I have heart disease and copd and arthritis. I am averaging about 6000 steps a day at moment. Any opinions on what I should be doing

  • Fitbit has become a motivation tool in accomplishing my health and helped me in challanging others to be active in setting health goals. Our group has inspired others to join. Fitbit innovation has made it easy to view our daily exercise with each other and I like the rewards sponsored by Fitbit to inhanse our workout activities. Thank you for helping us achieve our daily goals.

  • Fitbit steps do not record on treadmill if you hold onto anything (such as heartbeat bar). Nor does it work on inside bike at gym where your arms either hang or hold on to something. Also NOT WATERPROOF. My $28 Casio watch is good for 50m!! Finally, sleep function almost always shows “simplified” readings, not detailed graphs. Received as gift and VERY DISAPPOINTED. Pacer app on iphone much better.

  • Just got my Fitbit and am 65 years old…
    Is 10,000 steps/day recommended for all ages or lower amounts for older folks? I normally speed walk 3 miles/day and moved up to 5 per day last week and got so sore I had to not exercise over the weekend

  • The Fitbit helps me stay on track. I find myself doing more because I have the Fitbit Judy to see how many steps I can get and I feel great when I reach my goal. Also I love the fact Fitbit reminds me to get moving. Love my Fitbit

  • I love my Fitbit. I love little messages it has in the screen in the morning . They really make me laugh some days . I am overweight and this helps keep me moving !!!

  • I am 65. Have been trying to loss 23 lbs gained during last job. In 3 months, half way there. Walk 1 1/2 mi morn & night after meals. No snacks. Fitbit goal of minimum 5 mi / day works. Love to see screen turn green when make all the goals!

  • I wonder who taught the author of this blog maths? 10,000 steps, or five miles takes 100 minutes per day at a brisk walk! If you did it in 30 minutes you would be running at 10 miles per hour or 16 Km per hour, which is a fast jog.
    I do 10,000 steps every day and it takes me 1 hr 45 mins, at a brisk walk.
    Fitbit, please get your info right!

  • I got my Fit Bit my first week walked 26 miles in 5 days lost 4 pounds . I’m type 2 diabetic the only problem I have is my feet hurt so bad after my walk. I’m up to 15,000 steps per day. If I can do it any one can.

  • I have Cerebral Palsy my Fitbit helps me get the daily exercise I need to keep my legs strong

  • How come that Fitbit is measuring my foot step although I am not walking (for example when I cook or when I wash the dishes)??? Does this mean that the measures are not trustworthy?

  • It’s not always possible with work and personal schedules to get a consistent 10K steps per day. Why not advertise or advise a 10K goal for average steps in a week. I’m around 14K average per day when measured over a week. Some days I’m over 20K. Some days it’s only 7K. Please stop your ads that make me feel like a failure when I don’t get 10K every day. Get real!

  • Yes it is a great reference point. Move to Lyon France… we are averaging 14,000 per day. Burns off the wonderful wines we are drinking! ☺️Just visiting though…

  • I wish that the total steps taken goal could be changed. I am a senior citizen and I have a desk job that keeps me at my desk all day. I strive to get 3000 in a day and always feel discouraged because I didn’t meet the goal of 10000 steps and I never will. If I could set various goals it would make me feel better and give me something to strive for. Knowing it is an unreachable goal every day can be discouraging. Any thoughts?

  • So, how do steps work?
    I noticed I was at 9,800. And went to bed.. while spending quality time with my husband, my Fitbit begin celebrating 10,000 steps. I no for a fact, that I had not taken any steps during this time. It has left me wondering how steps are recorded and how accurate the Fitbit really is.

    Can anyone help answer this?

  • I just discovered that Fitbit is documenting the movement of my arms as steps… this was discouraging. I really thought all that running in place til 17,000 or great was my leg movement only

  • It takes me 11,800 steps to reach five miles. Of course my ‘stride’ was calculated by Fitbit based on my height, weight and age. Who knows how accurate it is! Still, having the Fitbit does encourage me to get out. Now, if only the scale showed a change!!

  • I am consistently walking 11,000 steps a day. I would love to reach 20,000. I have accomplished that twice and I felt spectacular. I love walking!

  • Fitbit has really changed my life…. i was a very lazy bum after getting my Fitbit i can track each and everything…. today i take around 15000 steps per day….. and i have started feeling awesome… thank you Fitbit for helping to change my lifestyle…

  • Life Hack:
    Not reaching 10,000 steps?
    here’s a plan:
    Clean the car-
    With a sponge, wipe side to side and bam! Almost 20,000 steps!

  • I have a sedentary job but thought all was fine. With my Fitbit I feel 100percent better. 10 k a day and now after 1.5 years, 15k. I’ve crossed India and now the Sahara. Outstanding.

  • I had a FitBit One for 4 years and lost it a few weeks ago 🙁
    Since the One is no longer available, I replaced it with a FitBit Flex 2 and am happy with it thus far.

    Cons of the Flex 2 in comparison to the One: does not record ‘floors’ walked, no display on the device (only lights), shorter charge life (3-4 days, when the One would last over a week), is NOT accurate in counting steps when worn on the wrist (and it only comes with a wristband – I carry it in my pocket where it is practically 100% accurate, and I have an off-market silicone magnetic clip coming on a slow boat from China – FitBit does not even have a clip option for the Flex 2)

    Pros of the Flex 2 in comparison to the One: I love the vibrate to let me know if I have not walked 250+ steps per hour in the span of hours I have selected, the sleep feature is surprisingly accurate and it is great to NOT have to let the FitBit know when I’m going to sleep and when I wake up (I never used this feature with my One because I had to let it know when I went to sleep and when I woke up and I knew there was no way I’d remember to do that in any consistent manner)

    So again, I am quite pleased with this second FitBit I have, and this Flex 2 with its vibrations has really gotten me walking more now than I was walking with my previous FitBit One 🙂

  • In February this year I got weighed thinking I was very over weight around about 18st I was actually 19st 10 lb I was shocked and a little embarrassed so I started to walk at first 1/2 a mile was a struggle I made changes to my diet and persisted with walking I have now lost almost 3st and walk 5 or 6 miles with out a problem my blood pressure as dropped considerably and I feel great please try it.

  • There has no mention of further benefit to going more than 10,000 steps a day. Is it assumed more is better, or is that such a variable that it’s up to the individuals doctor as to what number of steps per day might be too much??

  • Your article says that 10,000 steps is roughly equivalent to 30 min
    I walk 1 hour every day on a track and that hour is 6-7000 steps

  • My fit bit doesn’t register when I’m pushing something since my arm isn’t swinging. So, I started putting it into my pant pocket. I hope that’s okay to do.

    • I have noticed the same issue. Should we be wearing it around the ankle?? I just walked around a big store shopping, but I try to purposely walk the whole distance around the store to get extra walking in, but it doesn’t recognize it at all. NO extra steps and I’m assuming because my hands are pushing a cart and not actually moving. Also, it will track arm movements as steps. So I take all of that into account when figuring my own steps. Wish this could be fixed tho.

  • Just got my fitbit2 and the steps are really off, meaning I know I’ve only have done about 40 steps and the steps on the Fitbit are showing I’ve 700 how do I resit or fix the problem. I mostly bought it to monitor my steps. Thanks Chris

  • I’ve been getting 10-12k steps per day now for 18 months and I’ve lost 30 lbs. some days I get about 20,000 steps. Basically I incorporated my dog into my daily routine so I have something to be accountable to and I use 15-30 min breaks in my work calendar to get at least 2000 steps in. I started really paying attention to the environment around me and all of a sudden became very interested in plants, flowers, shrubs, and trees. Now I also have a new hobby.

  • I use Alexa and dance to R&B Rock and Roll even fast Country rock. I am 63 and am doing a FITBIT cardio and my own dancing to burn at least 11,000 steps a day. Addicted. Adoring it. Was not heavy to begin with! Getting fit and now losing weight that I didn’t really need! Thanks FITBIT!

  • I like to get my 10,000 + steps in everyday. I also do weights, cardio and yoga throughout the week, feel a lot better and had helped keep my weight steady. Win win

  • I am 71 I always enjoyed walking.My Fitbit encourages me even more.I am also biking and that helps me reach my goal.i encourage anyone at any age to get up and move.Its not just about losing weight. Bonnie from Grand Bay

  • I love the fire bit alta hr! It tracks my sleep, counts my steps, and even keeps me updated on my social life! So nice that’s you can just turn your watch toward you and see the time. I almost forget to take it off!

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