Fitness Trackers Miscalculate Caloric Burn, Study Reveals

WHO:

Lifehacker - Fitness trackers such as Fitbits and Apple Watches are mentioned as being inaccurate.

NY Post - Smartwatches are referred to as "tiny wrist computers."

WHAT:

Lifehacker - Fitness trackers are reported to miscalculate caloric burn.

NY Post - Smartwatches show a "substantial error" in tracking calories burned, particularly for certain demographics.

WHY:

NY Post - The inaccuracies in calorie tracking may be more pronounced for specific kinds of people, although the article does not specify which demographics are affected.

HOW:

Lifehacker - The article suggests that the technology used in fitness trackers is not reliable for accurate caloric burn measurement.

(UPDATED September 22, 2026 23:00 UTC)

Recent reports highlight that fitness trackers, including popular devices like Fitbits and Apple Watches, may not be as accurate as users expect, particularly when it comes to calculating caloric burn. The NY Post notes that these smartwatches, described as "tiny wrist computers," can exhibit a "substantial error" in tracking calories burned, especially among certain demographics, although specific groups were not identified. Lifehacker adds that the technology behind these fitness trackers is generally unreliable for precise caloric measurement, raising concerns for those relying on these devices for fitness goals.