How Does FitBit Flex Work?
The FitBit Flex is an electronic device worn around the wrist that uses accelerometers and altimeters with sensors to monitor the wearer’s steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned and sleep patterns. This device falls into a category of electronic devices called “wearable tech.”
The FitBit Flex is worn like a wristwatch and features a waterproof, interchangeable strap. Instead of displaying data on an LCD screen, the device flashes a series of lights to indicate the number of steps taken when users double tap the sensor. The data can be sent to smartphones or computers via Bluetooth or USB. The software has settings that can set the user’s dominant hand to improve accuracy, or change the lights to display the number of calories burned or the distance traveled. The device uses a lithium-ion battery that lasts a full week between charges.
Users can log meals using the website or app to track calorie intake. The site allows users to select from foods in the Fitbit database or create their own custom foods. Users can also enter their weights or sync them wirelessly from the Fitbit Aria body scale to track calorie-intake, weight-loss and exercise goals through the device and app.
The Flex also tracks the wearer’s motion to determine how long it takes to fall asleep and how often the user wakes at night. This information is also synced to the app or website, and users can view the data by day, week, month or year.
