Scientists at Stanford University found that fitness trackers incorrectly determine the number of calories spent during exercise time. To assess the accuracy of the devices, specialists conducted research.

Scientists have chosen 7 popular models of fitness trackers, among which were Apple Watch, Samsung Gear S2, Microsoft Band, Fitbit Surge, PulseOn, MIP Alpha 2 and Basis Peak. The study involved 60 volunteers.

To determine the accuracy of bracelet indicators, professional medical equipment was used, the indications of which were taken as a standard. Volunteers wore gadgets on their hands during training sessions on treadmills and exercise bikes, after which the researchers compared the readings of fitness trackers and medical equipment.

It turned out that the bracelets quite accurately determine the heart rate - the error in the indications of 6 of 7 devices was not more than 5%. But with the measurement of consumed calories, the situation turned out to be catastrophic. The average error in the testimony of Apple Watch and Fitbit Surge reached a whopping 27%, and the PulseOn bracelet was even more mistaken - 97%. Other gadgets also showed inaccurate data that were in the middle of this range.

The reason for this inaccuracy is the difficulty in determining the calories burned. To do this, it is not enough to know only the growth of the user, his body weight and information about physical activity.

aspekty. net.