Explanation on why 1 watch counts almost double the steps than another watch but same distance

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mel2128 Author

Level 1

8 points

Explanation on why 1 watch counts almost double the steps than another watch but same distance

Hi,

I'm hoping to get an explanation for the below:

My boyfriend and I went for a walk and before starting we both checked how much steps we had at that point in time.

We then walked the same steps but when we got back he had 2100 steps added and I had around 1100.

I understand someones height makes a difference and probably speed but we kept walking next to each other.

I also understand that counting steps is not exact, but i did not expect almost double in difference.

Some differences i should perhaps mention:

He has an Apple watch 6 and I have an Apple watch 5.

He is 184cm tall and I am 170 cm.

Anyone an idea?

thanks in advance

Apple Watch

Posted on Feb 17, 2021 12:37 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Randy-12

Level 7

20,169 points

Feb 17, 2021 5:51 AM in response to mel2128

Make sure all your information is up to date in the health app

Height, weight, age, sex etc

Also try resetting the fitness calibration data

From your iPhone>Watch>Privacy>Reset Fitness Calibration Data>Tap this

You will just get a confirmation box that tells you that your metrics will not be as good if you do this.

Tap confirm and do it. You will get nothing else, no confirmation but it is done.

Then go for a 20 minute outdoor run or walk using the workout app at your normal speed on a flat road/path etc

This will re-calibrate the watch.

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Answer 2

mel2128 Author

Level 1

8 points

Feb 18, 2021 12:57 AM in response to Randy-12

Thank you @Randy-12.

I did what you said although I did split the workout. I read that you could do that.

So today I had a segment of 12 min, then a segment of 4 min and a segment of 7 min. It is a bit longer than 20 minutes of course, so I'm hoping it is not a problem.

The activity app now states 4240 steps and 3,1 km which is about right I think.

This afternoon we will take a walk again and see if there is a difference in the steps still.

I will update the discussion then.

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Answer 3

mel2128 Author

Level 1

8 points

Feb 25, 2021 12:39 AM in response to mel2128

As an update:

The calibration worked very well. I monitored over the last couple of days and compared the number of steps to what my boyfriend had. It was about the same so I believe my issue is resolved.

Thanks again

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Explanation on why 1 watch counts almost double the steps than another watch but same distance

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