FitBit: Flex, Charge, Zip; Oh my!

NekoneMeowMixx

So I currently have a Polar FT4, which I love; but unfortunately being a slightly bustier woman, I find the chest strap to be rather inconvenient-- especially since in order to get the most accurate (and consistent) reading, I need to have it under the bottom strap of my sports bra. Ladies, you can imagine my woes...

Normally I'm not one for fancy gadgets, and the more hype a product like this gets, the more suspect I tend to become. But the idea of having something that can both track my progress 24/7, and track my progress specifically throughout a workout, is amazing... Apparently there are a zillion point seven different FitBits to choose from, and before diving too hard into the research, I figured I'd ask around for suggestions from people who actually *own* them...

The biggest thing I like about the FT4, is that I can watch my calories burned count go up as I'm working out. This is really important for me, as it helps motivate me, and lets me know if I need to go "just a little longer/harder". So something with an easy read-out and/or app that syncs in real time so I can watch my progress would be perfect.

Aside from that, I'm mostly just looking for the most cost-effective option that will sync (with MFP, preferably) and doesn't require me going out and buying a load of accessories (like the FitBit scale-- that seems a bit over the top to me) in order to utilize it properly.

Also open to suggestions outside of FitBit! Thanks in advance!

eponine1976

I currently have the Charge but I've owned other Fitbit models in the past. I killed 2 of the models that are worn on your waistband because I forgot to unclip before throwing clothes in the washer. So if your memory is as bad as mine that might be something to consider. However, the Fitbit zip is the least expensive option and will do the job.

If you want a wristband then it depends on whether you want a display or not. I didn't want to wear a watch and Fitbit and I like having the display to see where I'm at in my steps so that is why I didn't want a Flex. If you would rather have waterproof though the Flex is the only choice in the Fitbit family.

I don't care about wearing it swimming so for me the Charge fit my requirements, I have the display and it is on my wrist where I won't put it in the laundry.

In the past I've owned 2 Ultras (very similar to the Fitbit One) and a Fitbit Force (very similar to the Charge)

NekoneMeowMixx

Thanks for the response, eponine1976!

The Charge seems pretty nice for all its features, and I do like the interface, for sure! I guess my biggest thing is being able to see my calorie burn *as* I'm working out. Does this one (or any of them) have that capability?

editorgrrl

NekoneMeowMixx wrote: »

The biggest thing I like about the FT4, is that I can watch my calories burned count go up as I'm working out. This is really important for me, as it helps motivate me, and lets me know if I need to go "just a little longer/harder". So something with an easy read-out and/or app that syncs in real time so I can watch my progress would be perfect.

You can learn more in MFP's Fitbit Users group: http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/group/1290-fitbit-users

What Fitbits do best is show you your TDEE (total daily energy expenditure) and motivate you to be more active throughout the day. Only the priciest models have displays.

OceansForever

I've got the Fitbit Charge HR since January. I've owned two different HR monitors but had bad luck with both of them, the second one not really registering my heartbeat well unless I put the strap on in a rather odd way.

Anyway, when I saw that Fitbit came out with the Charge HR, I was excited. So far I really like it. My favorite features beside the obvious HR and step count, are the stair cases climbed (it also counts hiking up a hill as staircases BTW) and the sleep tracking function.

I can only recommend it!

suzeequu

i am on my 4th fit bit...broke two, lost one, got the zip this time due to the amount of money I have invested over the years. so far..its good...except the display is a little hard to read compared to others