fitbit vs heart rate monitor

[jjilly7]

what do you prefer and why? I have a HRM, but wanted to know how people felt about the fitbit, thanks.

[sporklemotion]

I have and use both, but they serve different purposes, so I think it depends what you want it for.  A fitbit is a fancy pedometer, so it measures how many steps you're taking in a day.  I use mine to measure my activity level when I'm not working out (at work, doing errands, etc.).  It's good for me because it's hard for me to work out during the week due to my work schedule, and my job is pretty active, so it's nice to be able to factor that in to my calories for the day (and not overeat on more sedentary days).
For me, the HRM is useful during work outs and it measures your calorie burn even when the activity isn't walking/running, and it gives a better sense of how hard your body is working.  If you walk/run, the fitbit can tell you how many steps you've taken in how long a time, but it doesn't really measure how much you're exerting yourself to do it, if you know what I mean.  Also, the fitbit doesn't tell you anything if your exercise isn't walking or running-- if you do spinning, or lift weights, the fitbit doesn't know it.

[pamela]

Ditto everything sporkle said. I use my HRM for runs/biking/cardio video/games, but wear my fitbit all the time.

[jjilly7]

Thanks!