Can You Swim with a Fitbit?
Absolutely! Fitbit offers several waterproof models designed specifically for swimming. Whether you’re doing laps in the pool or taking a dip in open water, certain Fitbit devices can track your strokes, laps, distance, and even calories burned. But not all Fitbits are swim-proof choosing the right model is essential.
Most modern Fitbits, including the Fitbit Versa 4, Charge 5, Sense 2, and Inspire 3, are water-resistant up to 50 meters, making them perfect for tracking swim workouts. These devices can automatically recognize swimming and provide detailed analytics when synced with the Fitbit app. However, models without advanced swim tracking may not differentiate between different strokes or provide real-time metrics.
It’s important to note that while Fitbits are water-resistant, they’re not designed for deep-sea diving or high-pressure water activities. Saltwater and chlorine exposure can impact long-term durability, so rinsing your Fitbit with freshwater after each swim is recommended.
If you’re a swimmer looking for a fitness tracker that accurately monitors your swim performance, Fitbit is a strong contender. From heart rate monitoring to stroke recognition, it provides valuable insights to help you improve in the water. Ready to find the best Fitbit for swimming? Let’s explore your options!
What to Look for in a Swimming Fitbit
Choosing the right Fitbit for swimming goes beyond just water resistance. Whether you’re a casual swimmer or a competitive athlete, your fitness tracker should offer accurate swim tracking, durability, and additional features that support your training. Below are the most important factors to consider when picking the best Fitbit for swimming.
1. Water Resistance Rating: Can It Handle Prolonged Submersion?
Not all Fitbits are created equal when it comes to water resistance. Some models are only splash-proof, while others are designed for full immersion.
- Look for a Fitbit with at least 50m (5 ATM) water resistance. This ensures the device can handle pool swims, showers, and even light open-water swimming.
- Avoid older models that are only splash-resistant, as they won’t survive extended exposure to water.
- Fitbit devices are not designed for deep diving, so avoid high-pressure underwater activities.
2. Swim Tracking Capabilities: How Well Does It Monitor Performance?
A high-quality swim-friendly Fitbit should offer a variety of swim tracking features to help monitor and improve your performance. Look for models that provide:
- Lap counting: Tracks the number of laps completed in a pool.
- Stroke recognition: Identifies different swimming styles such as freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly.
- Distance tracking: Measures how far you’ve swum, whether in a pool or open water.
- Pace tracking: Helps swimmers assess their speed and efficiency in the water.
- Swim duration and calorie burn: Monitors overall time spent swimming and energy expenditure.
While Fitbit models like the Versa 4 and Sense 2 offer advanced swim tracking, simpler models may only provide basic duration and calorie tracking.
3. Heart Rate Monitoring in Water: Is It Accurate?
Heart rate tracking in water can be challenging due to interference, but some Fitbit models have improved sensors that attempt to measure heart rate underwater.
- Some Fitbits, like the Charge 5 and Sense 2, offer limited heart rate tracking while swimming.
- Wrist-based heart rate tracking in water is less accurate than on land due to water resistance affecting the optical sensors.
- If heart rate tracking is essential, consider alternative devices like chest straps, which provide more precise readings underwater.
For most swimmers, tracking pace, laps, and calories is often more important than real-time heart rate monitoring.
4. Built-in GPS vs. Connected GPS: Does It Matter for Swimming?
If you swim in open water, having a built-in GPS is crucial for accurately tracking your distance and swim route.
- Fitbit models like the Versa 4 and Sense 2 include built-in GPS, making them ideal for tracking open-water swims in lakes, rivers, or oceans.
- Other models rely on Connected GPS, which means they need to be paired with your smartphone for location tracking. This isn’t practical for swimming.
If you primarily swim in a pool, GPS tracking is less important, as lap counting and pool length settings are more relevant.
5. Battery Life: Will It Last Through Long Swim Sessions?
Swimmers who train multiple times a week need a long battery life to avoid frequent charging.
- Fitbit Charge 5 and Inspire 3 last up to 7 days on a single charge.
- Fitbit Versa 4 and Sense 2 last around 6 days but may drain faster with GPS or heart rate monitoring enabled.
If you’re using your Fitbit daily for swimming, workouts, sleep tracking, and notifications, choose a model with at least 5+ days of battery life to avoid constant recharging.
6. Comfort and Design: Is It Secure on Your Wrist?
A good swim tracker should feel lightweight and secure on your wrist.
- Choose a Fitbit with an adjustable, snug-fitting band to prevent drag and discomfort in the water.
- Avoid large, bulky models, as they may feel heavy or create resistance when swimming.
- Silicone bands are the best choice for swimming, as they dry quickly and don’t retain moisture.
Fitbit devices are designed for everyday wear, making them comfortable for all-day use, not just in the pool.
7. Smart Features: Does It Enhance Your Fitness Experience?
Some Fitbits offer extra features beyond swim tracking that can help swimmers stay on top of their health and fitness goals.
- Smart notifications: Get call, text, and app alerts even while swimming (on certain models).
- Workout reminders: Set reminders to stay consistent with your swim training.
- Stress management tools: Use Fitbit’s stress tracking to balance high-intensity workouts with recovery.
- Sleep tracking: Helps swimmers monitor sleep quality, which plays a role in athletic performance.
If you want a Fitbit that doubles as an all-day fitness tracker and smartwatch, opt for models like Versa 4 or Sense 2, which have comprehensive smart features.
8. App Integration: Does It Provide Useful Data?
The Fitbit app plays a significant role in how well you can track your swimming progress.
- Syncing your Fitbit with the app allows you to review detailed swim analytics, including lap times, total distance, and calorie burn.
- The app can help set swim goals and track performance over time.
- Some Fitbits offer Fitbit Premium, which provides personalized insights and advanced performance analytics.
A strong app integration ensures you maximize your swim tracking experience and make data-driven improvements.
When picking the best Fitbit for swimming, consider your personal needs.
- If you swim casually and need basic tracking, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is a budget-friendly choice.
- For pool swimmers, the Fitbit Versa 4 offers excellent lap counting and stroke tracking.
- If you swim in open water, the Fitbit Sense 2 or Versa 4 with built-in GPS is the best option.
- For full fitness tracking beyond swimming, the Fitbit Charge 5 provides a balance of multi-sport tracking, heart rate monitoring, and a lightweight design.
A Fitbit for swimming is an excellent tool for tracking progress, improving performance, and staying motivated. By selecting a model with the right features for your needs, you’ll get the most out of your swim workouts and overall fitness journey.
Best Fitbit Models for Swimming
Not all Fitbits are designed for swimming, but several models offer excellent water resistance, swim tracking, and fitness insights. Whether you’re a recreational swimmer or an athlete training for endurance, choosing the right Fitbit for swimming can enhance your workout and track progress efficiently. Below are the best Fitbit models that are swim-proof and provide accurate tracking in the water.
1. Fitbit Versa 4 – Best Overall for Swimming
✔ Water Resistance: 50 meters
✔ Swim Tracking: Yes (laps, duration, and calories burned)
✔ Battery Life: Up to 6 days
✔ Built-in GPS: Yes
The Fitbit Versa 4 is one of the best choices for swimmers who want an all-in-one fitness tracker and smartwatch. It features automatic swim tracking, meaning it detects when you start swimming and records your laps, duration, and calories burned. The built-in GPS is ideal for open-water swimmers, allowing accurate distance tracking without needing a phone.
✔ Why Choose It?
- Comprehensive swim tracking for pool workouts
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Advanced fitness tracking beyond swimming
❌ Downside:
- Lacks stroke recognition
2. Fitbit Sense 2 – Best for Open Water Swimmers
✔ Water Resistance: 50 meters
✔ Swim Tracking: Yes (laps, duration, and calories burned)
✔ Battery Life: Up to 6 days
✔ Built-in GPS: Yes
If you’re looking for the most advanced Fitbit for swimming, the Fitbit Sense 2 is a premium choice. With built-in GPS, it accurately tracks your swim distance in open water, making it great for triathletes or open-water enthusiasts. It provides heart rate monitoring, though accuracy in water may vary.
✔ Why Choose It?
- Best for open-water swimming with GPS tracking
- Includes stress management tools
- Waterproof and stylish design
❌ Downside:
- More expensive than other Fitbit models
- No stroke recognition
3. Fitbit Charge 5 – Best for Advanced Fitness Tracking
✔ Water Resistance: 50 meters
✔ Swim Tracking: Yes (duration, calories, distance)
✔ Battery Life: Up to 7 days
✔ Built-in GPS: No (requires phone for GPS)
The Fitbit Charge 5 is perfect for swimmers who want more than just swim tracking. While it doesn’t have advanced swim metrics, it still records time, distance, and calories burned. Its long battery life and comprehensive fitness tracking make it an excellent choice for athletes who train both in and out of the pool.
✔ Why Choose It?
- Slim and lightweight for comfort
- Best for overall health tracking (sleep, stress, heart rate, etc.)
- Longest battery life among Fitbit swim trackers
❌ Downside:
- No built-in GPS
- No lap counting
4. Fitbit Inspire 3 – Best Budget-Friendly Option
✔ Water Resistance: 50 meters
✔ Swim Tracking: Yes (duration, calories)
✔ Battery Life: Up to 10 days
✔ Built-in GPS: No
For those on a budget, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is an affordable swim-proof fitness tracker that offers basic swim tracking. While it doesn’t track laps or stroke types, it still records time spent swimming and calories burned. Its small and lightweight design makes it comfortable for long-term wear, even outside of swimming.
✔ Why Choose It?
- Most affordable swim-proof Fitbit
- Longest battery life (up to 10 days!)
- Tracks essential fitness metrics beyond swimming
❌ Downside:
- No lap counting
- No GPS or stroke recognition
Which Fitbit is Best for You?
Choosing the best Fitbit for swimming depends on your needs:
- For the best all-around swim tracker: ✔ Fitbit Versa 4
- For open-water swimming with GPS: ✔ Fitbit Sense 2
- For long battery life and fitness tracking: ✔ Fitbit Charge 5
- For a budget-friendly swim-proof Fitbit: ✔ Fitbit Inspire 3
Regardless of which model you choose, a Fitbit for swimming can help you track progress, improve performance, and stay motivated in the water!
How Accurate is Fitbit for Swimming?
Fitbit devices offer swim tracking features, but their accuracy depends on various factors, including the model, swim environment, and individual swimming style. While Fitbit is great for monitoring swim duration, calories burned, and heart rate, some limitations exist in tracking laps, strokes, and distance.
1. Accuracy of Swim Tracking Features
✔ Lap Counting Accuracy
Fitbit models like the Versa 4, Sense 2, and Charge 5 can track laps in the pool. However, accuracy depends on consistent strokes and turns. Fitbit may miscount laps if:
- You change stroke styles frequently
- You take long pauses between laps
- You don’t push off the wall forcefully
Accuracy Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) – Good but can miscount if movements aren’t consistent
✔ Distance Tracking
For open-water swimmers, Fitbit models with built-in GPS (such as Sense 2 and Versa 4) can provide distance tracking. However, water can interfere with GPS signals, leading to small inaccuracies.
Accuracy Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5) – More reliable in pools than open water
✔ Stroke Detection
Unlike Garmin and Apple Watch, most Fitbits do not automatically recognize stroke types (freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, etc.). The lack of stroke differentiation affects training for competitive swimmers.
Accuracy Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5) – Tracks movement but doesn’t detect stroke types
✔ Calorie Burn Estimation
Fitbit uses your heart rate, swim intensity, and personal metrics (weight, age, height) to estimate calorie burn. However, water affects heart rate sensor accuracy, making calorie estimates slightly less precise.
Accuracy Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) – Good but slightly over/underestimates due to heart rate tracking challenges
2. Factors That Affect Fitbit’s Swim Accuracy
Swimming Environment
- Pool Swimming: More accurate since laps and turns are easier to detect
- Open Water: Less accurate due to GPS limitations in water
Stroke Consistency
- Consistent movements = better accuracy
- Erratic stroke changes or long pauses can confuse tracking
Device Placement
- Wearing the Fitbit snugly on the wrist improves detection
- Loose straps or excessive movement may cause tracking errors
Swim Mode Activation
- Ensure Swim Mode is enabled before starting
- Fitbit may not recognize swims if started incorrectly
3. How Does Fitbit Compare to Other Swim Trackers?
| Feature | Fitbit Versa 4 / Sense 2 | Apple Watch Series 9 | Garmin Swim 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lap Counting | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Good) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very Accurate) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Best for swimmers) |
| Stroke Recognition | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Limited) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Advanced) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Detects all strokes) |
| Heart Rate in Water | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Limited) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Accurate) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Good) |
| Open-Water Accuracy | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Better) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Best) |
| GPS Tracking | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Limited) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Accurate) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Best) |
✔ Verdict: If you’re a casual swimmer, Fitbit is good enough for tracking laps, calories, and duration. However, for competitive or open-water swimmers, Garmin and Apple Watch provide more accurate data.
Is Fitbit Accurate for Swimming?
Fitbit provides reliable swim tracking for recreational swimmers
Lap counting and calorie tracking are generally accurate
Open-water GPS tracking is less reliable than pool tracking
Lacks stroke recognition and advanced swim analytics
Ideal for: Casual swimmers looking for basic swim metrics
Not ideal for: Professional swimmers needing detailed stroke analysis
If you want highly accurate swim tracking, consider Garmin Swim 2 or Apple Watch Series 9. However, for general fitness tracking and swimming combined, Fitbit remains a solid and affordable option!
Benefits of Using Fitbit for Swimming
Using a Fitbit for swimming offers several advantages, from tracking workout performance to monitoring overall fitness levels. Whether you’re a casual swimmer or a dedicated athlete, a Fitbit can provide useful insights to improve your technique and endurance.
1. Tracks Swim Duration and Laps
One of the biggest benefits of using a Fitbit for swimming is its ability to track swim duration, laps, and distance. This allows swimmers to:
✔ Measure total time spent in the pool
✔ Track the number of laps completed
✔ Stay consistent with training goals
Ideal for swimmers who want to see progress over time and improve endurance.
2. Helps Monitor Calorie Burn
Swimming is a full-body workout, but it can be hard to measure how many calories you’re actually burning. Fitbit provides calorie estimates based on:
✔ Duration and intensity of your swim
✔ Personal details (weight, height, age, gender)
✔ Heart rate data (varies by model)
This is especially helpful for weight loss goals or tracking overall fitness progress.
3. Water-Resistant and Durable
Most modern Fitbits, such as the Versa 4, Sense 2, and Charge 5, are water-resistant up to 50 meters. This means:
✔ You can swim without worrying about water damage
✔ The device can withstand pool and open-water conditions
✔ No need to remove it every time you shower or sweat
Perfect for athletes who want an all-day fitness tracker.
4. Measures Heart Rate (Limited in Water)
Some Fitbit models track heart rate continuously, but water can interfere with sensor accuracy. However, Fitbits like the Sense 2 and Charge 5 still provide:
✔ Resting heart rate data before and after a swim
✔ Overall fitness and recovery insights
Great for monitoring cardiovascular fitness over time.
5. Built-in GPS for Open-Water Swimming
For swimmers who train in lakes or oceans, Fitbit models with built-in GPS (like the Sense 2 and Versa 4) help track:
✔ Total distance covered in open water
✔ Route mapping for outdoor swimming
✔ Pace and speed over time
Essential for triathletes or long-distance swimmers.
6. Syncs with Fitbit App for Swim Analytics
Every swim session gets recorded in the Fitbit app, where you can:
✔ Review lap counts, calories, and swim duration
✔ Analyze weekly or monthly swim trends
✔ Set personalized swimming goals
This helps keep track of progress and improve performance.
7. All-in-One Fitness Tracker
Besides swimming, Fitbit tracks:
✔ Steps and daily movement
✔ Sleep patterns
✔ Stress levels and recovery
A perfect device for those who want a well-rounded fitness tracker beyond swimming.
How to Use Your Fitbit for Swimming
Using a Fitbit for swimming is a great way to track your workouts, improve endurance, and monitor progress. However, to get the most accurate data, you need to set up your device properly and use it correctly. Follow this guide to ensure you’re using your Fitbit’s swim tracking features effectively.
1. Check If Your Fitbit is Swim-Proof
Before diving into the pool, make sure your Fitbit is water-resistant and suitable for swimming.
✔ Swim-Friendly Fitbit Models:
- Fitbit Versa 4 (Water-resistant up to 50 meters)
- Fitbit Sense 2 (Tracks swim duration & calories)
- Fitbit Charge 5 (Great for pool swimming)
- Fitbit Inspire 3 (Basic swim tracking)
❌ Not Recommended for Swimming:
- Older models like Fitbit Luxe and Inspire 2 are only splash-proof and may get damaged in water.
Always check your model’s specifications before using it in water.
2. Enable Swim Mode on Your Fitbit
To track your swim workout, activate Swim Mode before jumping into the pool.
Steps to Start Swim Mode:
- Swipe on your Fitbit screen to find the Exercise app
- Select Swim from the list of workouts
- Adjust the pool length (important for accurate lap counting)
- Tap Start and begin swimming
Without setting the correct pool length, your Fitbit might miscount laps.
3. Adjust Fitbit for the Best Accuracy
To get the most precise data, follow these tips:
✔ Wear Your Fitbit Snugly
- A loose fit may reduce accuracy, especially for lap counting
- Secure the band tight enough to stay in place but not too tight to be uncomfortable
✔ Swim Consistently
- Fitbit tracks strokes and laps best when your stroke is consistent
- Sudden stops, switching strokes, or irregular movements may affect lap accuracy
✔ Minimize Excessive Hand Movements
- Some strokes (like treading water) may not register correctly
- Avoid frequent stopping and changing stroke types too often
Keeping a steady swim rhythm improves tracking accuracy.
4. Using Fitbit for Open-Water Swimming
If you swim in lakes, rivers, or the ocean, a Fitbit with built-in GPS (like the Sense 2 or Versa 4) can track distance and pace.
How to Use GPS for Open Water Swims:
✔ Ensure GPS tracking is enabled in the Exercise settings
✔ Start Swim Mode before entering the water
✔ Keep your Fitbit above water occasionally (GPS signals don’t work well underwater)
GPS tracking is best suited for swimming where your hand comes out of the water regularly, such as freestyle swimming.
5. Viewing Your Swim Stats After Workout
Once you finish your swim:
- Tap the screen or press the side button to stop Swim Mode
- Sync your Fitbit with the Fitbit app
- View stats like:
- Total time spent swimming
- Number of laps completed
- Calories burned
- Heart rate data (if available)
The Fitbit app helps track progress over time and set fitness goals.
6. Post-Swim Care: Maintaining Your Fitbit
After swimming, proper Fitbit care ensures longevity and accuracy.
✔ Rinse with fresh water to remove chlorine or salt
✔ Dry thoroughly before charging
✔ Avoid hot tubs or saunas, as high heat may damage the device
Regular cleaning helps maintain sensor accuracy and prevents skin irritation.
Conclusion: Is Fitbit Worth It for Swimmers?
If you’re looking for a reliable swim tracker, a Fitbit for swimming can be a great choice especially if you’re a casual swimmer or fitness enthusiast. With its lap counting, calorie tracking, and swim duration monitoring, it provides valuable insights into your swimming workouts.
However, if you’re a competitive swimmer or someone who needs advanced stroke detection and detailed swim metrics, Fitbit may not be the most comprehensive option. Unlike dedicated swim watches (like Garmin or Apple Watch Ultra), Fitbit lacks stroke recognition and underwater heart rate tracking.
Great for: Recreational swimmers, fitness tracking, weight loss, and improving endurance
Not ideal for: Competitive swimmers who need precise stroke analysis and technique tracking
Final Verdict: If you want an affordable, easy-to-use, and all-in-one fitness tracker that can handle swimming along with other activities like running, cycling, and sleep tracking, a Fitbit for swimming is definitely worth it. However, if swimming is your primary focus, you might want to explore dedicated swim watches for more in-depth tracking.
