When it comes to wearables, Fitbit is one of the most popular names in the market. Whether you own one of its fitness trackers or one of its high-end smartwatches, getting started is simple. Don’t worry about how to set up your Fitbit — we have all the steps you need to get the most from Fitbit’s most popular wearables.
For a feature-packed device meant to keep up with the top smartwatches of the industry, the Fitbit Sense offers sleep tracking, sensors, and great build quality. For the budget-conscious shopper, the Fitbit Versa 3 provides a similar experience at a lower price point. Meanwhile, trackers like the Charge 5, Luxe, and Inspire 2 are top-of-the-line devices, each with different users in mind. The point is, Fitbit has something for everyone. Whichever device you choose, Fitbit wants users to get out and get moving, so a streamlined, easy setup is vital.
The Fitbit experience starts with a clean, well-organized app and intuitive devices. From pairing your new device to getting it charged up, the process is simple; just follow the directions below, and you’ll be tracking steps and goals before you know it.
If you find yourself struggling to figure out how to turn off your Fitbit device, there’s a good chance it simply doesn’t. Not all Fitbit devices will turn off, as many power up when they are charged and don’t need to be messed with again. The devices that do turn off include the Fitbit Sense and Versa 3.
How to turn your Fitbit Sense or Versa 3 on and off
To turn on your device, press and hold the side button until it vibrates.
To turn off your device, open the Settings app, then scroll down and tap Shutdown. Tap Yes to confirm.
To get going and set up your Fitbit, you’ll need to pair your device to a smartphone. Start by downloading the Fitbit app. For iPhones and iPads, you can find the app in the Apple App Store. For Android phones, download the app from the Google Play Store.
Once you have the Fitbit app downloaded, open it on your smartphone. If you already have a Fitbit account, log in using your credentials. If you don’t already have a Fitbit account, tap Join Fitbit and follow the on-screen prompts to create your account.
Tap the Today tab once you are logged in.
Tap on the Account icon (your profile image in the top left corner), then tap Set up a Device.
Find and tap the device you would like to pair, then follow the on-screen instructions to pair your new device to your account.
Once you complete the pairing process, follow along with Fitbit’s on-screen prompts to learn more about your new device as well as the app itself.
Read more: A step-by-step guide on how to set up a Fitbit
Once you your device with your Fitbit account, the app will sync with your tracker periodically to update your latest stats. If you want to force a sync, pull down on your home screen in the Fitbit app.
How to update your Fitbit
Whether it’s been weeks or months since you initially set up your device, keep your Fitbit updated to optimize its res and keep bugs in check. Before getting started, make sure you have the latest version of the app installed on your paired phone or tablet. Then, follow the directions below to update your device.
With your charged Fitbit device nearby, open the Fitbit app on your paired device and tap on the Today tab. Tap on the Account icon, then tap the image of your device.
If an update is available, you will see a pink Update button. Tap it and follow the on-screen prompts to begin the update, keeping your Fitbit close to your phone, tablet, or computer during the update.
How to factory reset your Fitbit Sense, Versa 3, Charge 5, Luxe, and Inspire 2
If you want to gift or sell your Fitbit device to someone else, clear your personal data before handing it off. Resetting your Fitbit to factory settings is easy and essential.
How to reset your Fitbit Sense or Fitbit Versa 3
Open the Settings app on your device.
Tap About Sense or About Versa 3, then tap Factory Reset.
How to reset your Fitbit Charge 5 or Luxe
Open the Settings app on your device.
Tap DeviceInfo, then Clear User Data.
Swipe up, then press Hold 3 Sec for three seconds and release.
You will know your data is erased when your device vibrates, and you see the Fitbit logo.
How to reset your Fitbit Inspire 2
Open the Settings app on your device.
Tap Clear User Data. When prompted, press and hold your screen for three seconds, then release.
You will know your data is erased when your device vibrates, and you see your clock face.
How to restart your Fitbit Sense, Versa 3, Charge 5, Luxe, and Inspire 2
If you can’t sync your device, or if you run into trouble tracking your stats, you can reboot some Fitbit devices right from your wrist. If the device is unresponsive, you may need to force a restart. Neither of these two operations will delete any data. Follow the directions below to see what action you can take for your specific device.
How to restart your Fitbit Sense or Versa 3
If your device is unresponsive, connect it to its charging cable, then press and hold its button for 10 seconds until the Fitbit logo appears. Then, release the button.
How to restart your Fitbit Charge 5 or Luxe
Open the Settings app on your device and tap Restart Device, then confirm by tapping Restart again.
If your device is unresponsive, connect it to its charging cable. Locate the button on the flat end of the charger and press it three times, pausing briefly between each press. Wait 10 seconds for the Fitbit logo to appear.
How to restart your Fitbit Inspire 2
If your device is unresponsive, connect it to its charging cable. Press and hold the buttons on your tracker for five seconds, then release. You will know your tracker has restarted when it vibrates and you see a smiley face on your screen.
See also: Common Fitbit problems and how to fix them
How to charge your Fitbit Sense, Versa 3, Charge 5, Luxe, and Inspire 2
Most Fitbits have noteworthy stats when it comes to battery life, but at some point, you’ll need to plug in. Some features, like updates or installing apps, may also require your Fitbit to have a certain amount of charge to set up. Follow the steps that apply to your device to keep tracking without running out of juice.
How to charge your Sense, Luxe, Versa 3, or Charge 5
Plug your charging cable into a UL-certified USB wall charger or the USB port on your computer.
Attach the opposite end of the charging cable to the back of your device. You will feel it connect magnetically. Make sure the charging cable pins align with the back of your device.
How to charge your Fitbit Inspire 2
Plug your charging cable into a UL-certified USB wall charger or the USB port on your computer.
Clip the opposite end of the charging cable to the port on the backside of your device. Make sure the pins on the charging clip lock securely with the contact points on the back of your device, pressing gently until the device snaps into place.
How to personalize your Fitbit Sense, Versa 3, Charge 5, Luxe, and Inspire 2
Get the most out of your smartwatch or tracker by personalizing it to your needs. Once you set up the basics on your device, give your Fitbit a personal touch. Whether it’s a new replacement band or a fresh face, customizable features let you make your Fitbit truly your own.
How to change the clock face on your Fitbit Sense, Versa 3, Charge 5, Luxe, and Inspire 2
One way to switch things up on your Fitbit is to change out the default watch face. Each device offers a varied level of customization. Explore the options available on your Fitbit model to set up a face that works for you.
How to change the clock face on your device
From the Today tab in the Fitbit app, tap the Account icon and then tap the image of your device.
Tap Clock Faces and scroll through the options available. When you find a face you would like to set on your device, tap it and then tap Select.
A note on changing the clock face on your Fitbit Sense and Fitbit Versa 3
On your Fitbit Sense or Fitbit Versa 3, you can have up to five faces saved and switch between them. To browse your saved clock faces, open the Clocks app and simply tap to select one. You can also access the available faces quickly by pressing and holding your current clock face.
Read also: How to change the time on your Fitbit device
To see your saved clock faces in the Fitbit app, open the Today tab and tap on the Account icon. Tap on the image of your device, then tap Clock Faces. On the device tab, you will find your saved clock faces under My Clocks. To switch to a saved clock face, tap the one you would like to use, then tap Select. Some faces offer further customization options on this screen, or scroll down and tap Settings to find more options. You can also remove a clock face by tapping the face you no longer want, then scrolling down and tapping Remove clock face.
How to change Fitbit Sense, Versa 3, Charge 5, Luxe, and Inspire 2 bands
Changing out your Fitbit’s band is another quick and easy way to give the device some personality. From classic silicone to trendy woven prints, there are plenty of styles and materials to choose from, each with its own advantages.
How to change bands on your Fitbit Sense, Versa 3, Charge 5, or Luxe
Turn the device over and locate the band latches.
One side at a time, press down on the flat button on the band to release the latch, then gently pull the band away from the device.
Repeat on the opposite side.
To attach a new band, press one end of the band into one side of the Fitbit until you feel it snap in place. Repeat with the opposite side and remaining band.
How to change bands on your Inspire 2
Turn the device over and locate the quick-release lever.
While pressing the lever inward toward the center of the band, gently pull the band away from the tracker.
Repeat on the opposite side.
To attach a new band, slide the pin on the opposite corner of the quick-release lever into the notch on the side of your tracker. While holding down the quick-release lever, slide the remaining corner into place and release the lever.
Don’t miss: The best replacement bands for every Fitbit model
Your Fitbit Sense and Versa 3 will come with a few apps preloaded, but there are plenty more available to turn your device into a harder working tool. While the selection is a bit behind competitors like the Apple Watch or Wear OS, it’s worth exploring to find apps that will amp up your user experience. Browse and install apps to your device from your Fitbit app. To see what apps are installed at any time, just swipe left from the clock face on your device.
How to add apps to your Fitbit Sense and Versa 3
From the Today tab in the Fitbit app, tap the Account icon, then tap the image of your device.
Tap Apps, and scroll through the selection of apps available.
Once you find the app you would like to add, tap it, then tap Install.
How to remove apps from your Fitbit Sense and Versa 3
From the Today tab in the Fitbit app, tap the Account icon, then tap the image of your device.
Tap Apps, then tap on the tab with your device name.
Find and tap the app you would like to like to remove, then tap Uninstall. When you are prompted to confirm, tap Uninstall again.
Few things compare to a solid workout playlist. A good beat or favorite jam can be vital in keeping up your energy when it comes to motivation. Luckily, some Fitbit devices like the Sense and Versa 3 offer music storage. These devices are compatible with Pandora, Deezer, and Spotify, as well as local music files. However, Spotify does not offer offline listening. Download your favorite music app following the directions above, or listen to your own music files in the Fitbit Music app.
How to add local music files to your Fitbit Sense or Versa 3
To add local music files to your device, visit fitbit.com/setup to download the Fitbit Connect app on your PC or Mac. Once you complete the installation process, follow the directions below.
Open the desktop app and click Manage My Music, then log in with your credentials when prompted.
On your watch, open the Music app, and tap Transfer Music to switch on Wi-Fi, and make your watch discoverable to the app.
On the desktop app, click the gear icon to select folders you would like to import into the app. You can import an existing playlist or create a new one to transfer to your device.
Tap the circle icon next to each playlist to begin transferring music to your Fitbit.
Don’t miss: The best workout earbuds
How to use health, fitness, and sleep tracking features on your Fitbit device
Used correctly, your Fitbit is a well of valuable data. From heart rate measurements to Active Zone Minutes to sleep analysis and much more, the measurables provided by your device can help you achieve a healthier lifestyle. What’s more, using Fitbit’s tracking features is easy with a user-friendly app and clear on-screen prompts. Read through the tips below and explore the Fitbit app to find out about all the tools your device has to offer.
Activity tracking: All Fitbit devices automatically track steps, Active Zone Minutes, and a variety of other activity stats. Manage your activity goals and settings in the Fitbit app.
Open the Fitbit app and tap the Today tab, then tap the Account icon.
Scroll down and tap Activity & Wellness, then tap Daily Activity.
From this screen, tap to enter a value next to Steps, Distance, Calories Burned, Active Zone Minutes, Floors Climbed, Hourly Activity Goal, and Weekly Zone Minutes to set a goal for each.
Exercise: Most Fitbit devices will auto-detect compatible exercises and add them to your stats. You can also start and stop an exercise manually from many Fitbit devices. On the Fitbit Charge 5, Sense, and Versa 3, the Exercise app will open automatically and track your activity using GPS. To see which exercises are auto-detected and to manage your settings, follow the steps below.
Open the Fitbit app and tap the Today tab, then tap your Account icon.
Scroll down and tap Activity & Wellness, then tap Exercise.
Set a goal for how many days per week you would like to exercise by tapping the arrow below Goals. From this screen, you can also manage auto-detection for specific exercises.
Heart rate: Continuous heart rate tracking is available on many Fitbit devices. To see your heart rate details swipe up on your device. Additionally, a Fitbit Charge 5, Fitbit Sense, or Fitbit Versa 3 will alert you if a heart rate outside of your high or low thresholds is detected while you appear to be inactive. If you want to manage your notifications or set custom heart rate zones, you can do so in the Fitbit app.
Open the Fitbit app and tap the Today tab, then tap your Account icon.
Scroll down and tap Activity & Wellness, then tap Heart Settings.
Tap High & low heart rate to manage your resting heart rate thresholds and notifications. Tap Heart rate zones to set a custom max heart rate and heart rate range while exercising.
Sleep: All Fitbit devices detect and track sleep automatically when worn to bed. Sync your Fitbit in the morning to check out your sleep stats in the Fitbit app, including your Fitbit sleep score. On the Fitbit Sense and Versa 3, users can also enable snore and noise detection. Set up a sleep schedule, sleep goal, and manage your bedtime reminder in the Fitbit app.
Open the Fitbit app and tap the Today tab, then tap your Account icon.
Scroll down and tap Activity & Wellness, then tap Sleep.
Tap Time Asleep Goal, Betime, and Wake up time to set each according to your preferences. You can also tap the Reminder toggle and choose what time you would like your device to remind you to get ready for bed.
Menstrual health: Period tracking is another valuable tool available in the Fitbit app and on select Fitbit devices. To track your cycle, symptoms, and fertile window, enter your women’s health information in the Fitbit app.
Open the Fitbit app and tap the Today tab, then tap your Account icon.
Scroll down and tap Activity & Wellness, then tap Menstrual Health.
Follow the on-screen prompts to enter relevant information and get started.
Read also: Everything you need to know about Fitbit female health tracking
Food and calorie tracking: Manually log food intake each day to track calories and achieve weight-related goals. Set up a Daily Calorie Goal in the Fitbit app to stay on target. You can also choose a water goal, weight goal, and body fat % goal from this location as well.
Open the Fitbit app and tap the Today tab, then tap your Account icon.
Scroll down and tap Activity & Wellness, then tap Nutrition & Weight.
Tap Food, and follow the on-screen prompts to set up your personal plan. Alternatively, you can set a daily calorie goal without a food plan if using an iPhone or iPad.
How to set up and use calling features on your Fitbit device
For a taste of a spy-like lifestyle, tap into the calling features available on select Fitbit smartwatches.
How to take on-wrist calls from your Fitbit Sense or Fitbit Versa 3
Using your device’s built-in speaker and microphone, you can take phone calls right on your wrist with a Fitbit Sense or Fitbit Versa 3. To set up calling features, follow the steps below and keep your paired phone nearby with the Fitbit app running in the background. Once you complete the setup process, accept incoming phone calls by tapping the green phone icon.
Open the Today tab on your paired phone and tap your Account icon, then tap the image of your device.
Tap On-Wrist Calls, then tap Start Setup.
On your paired phone, tap Settings, then tap Bluetooth. Depending on your device, you will see Sense Controls or Versa 3 Controls as an available device. Tap the applicable option, and a number will appear on your phone screen. Tap Pair on your watch when the same number appears there as well.
On your phone, tap Done to complete the setup for on-wrist phone calls.
Accepting and rejecting incoming calls from your Fitbit Charge 5
You can accept or reject incoming phone calls from your Charge 5 if the device is paired to an iPhone or Android 8 or later phone. With older versions of Android, you can only reject incoming calls.
To accept an incoming call, tap the checkmark or green phone on your screen. Doing so will answer the call on your nearby phone.
To reject an incoming call, tap the X icon or red phone on your tracker’s screen.
Messaging on your Fitbit device
From select apps, devices paired with an Android phone can respond to text messages and notifications with preset quick replies. To use this feature, you will need to have your paired Android phone nearby with the Fitbit app running in the background. Unfortunately, this feature is not available for iPhone users. Additionally, if you don’t see an option to reply to a given message, the feature is not available for that specific app.
When you receive a message, tap the notification on your device. To access recent messages, swipe down from your clock face.
Tap Reply and choose a preset quick reply, or tap the emoji icon to send an emoji.
More: How to receive messages and send replies from your Fitbit
How to set up and use Fitbit Pay on the Fitbit Sense, Versa 3, and Charge 5
Make a mid-run pitstop without your wallet. With Fitbit Pay, you can load a credit or debit card right onto your device and make purchases on the go. Digital payments are a simple no-touch way to always have funds on hand, and they’re easy to set up on Fitbits following the steps below. Devices that support Fitbit Pay include the Fitbit Sense, Versa 3, and Charge 5. Many older Fitbit devices support the contactless payment system, too.
From the Today tab in the Fitbit app, tap the Account icon, then tap the image of your device.
Tap Wallet and follow the on-screen prompts to add a credit or debit card. You may be prompted to set a 4-digit PIN code on your device, and you will also need to have passcode protection enabled on your paired phone.
Once you add your card, follow the on-screen prompts to turn on notifications on your phone and finish setting up Fitbit pay.
Setting up your Fitbit is easy, but it’s just the beginning. Once you’ve learned the basics, the only step left is to get moving. Put your device to work and start tracking your exercise, activity, and wellness stats. Take it for a spin and bring music and Fitbit Pay on your next run. Between the features on your device and the additional res on the Fitbit app, you now have plenty of tools to help you on your health and fitness journey.
Above article first published by . We curated and re-published.
Tips Clear is a seasoned writer and digital marketing expert with over a decade of experience in creating high-quality, engaging content for a diverse audience. He specializes in blogging, SEO, and digital marketing strategies, and has a deep understanding of the latest trends and technologies. Tips Clear's work has been featured on various prominent platforms, and he is committed to providing valuable insights and practical tips to help readers navigate the digital landscape.
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