A fitness tracker typically measures your steps using an accelerometer, which is a sensor that detects motion. When you walk or run, the accelerometer in the fitness tracker senses the movements and converts them into step counts.
The accelerometer works by detecting changes in acceleration. When you take a step, there is a brief acceleration followed by a deceleration as your foot hits the ground. The accelerometer senses these changes and interprets them as steps.
The fitness tracker combines the information from the accelerometer with algorithms to filter out other types of motion, such as arm movements or shaking, to ensure it accurately counts steps. Some trackers may also use additional sensors, such as a gyroscope, to further enhance the accuracy of step counting.
Overall, the fitness tracker calculates the number of steps you take based on the data collected by the accelerometer and other sensors, providing you with an estimate of your physical activity throughout the day.