Buzz
Previously reserved for Fitbit’s premium subscribers, the daily readiness score is now available to all users with the latest app update. The calculation method has also been revised. This guide explains the score’s significance, its origins, and how to make the most of it.
Which Fitbit devices provide a readiness score?
Although other wearable brands offer comparable features, within the Fitbit ecosystem, the devices in question include:
Pixel Watch 1, 2, and 3
Sense and Sense 2
Versa 2, 3, and 4
Charge 5 and 6
Inspire 2 and 3
Luxe
What is the significance of the readiness score?
The term “readiness” reflects how rested and energetic you theoretically should feel. Intense training may result in a lower score, suggesting the need for recovery, while a higher score indicates you’re well-rested. According to Fitbit, “The Daily Readiness Score evaluates your Fitbit data to determine if you’re prepared for exercise or should focus on recovery.”
However, approach this with caution. Your Fitbit or Pixel Watch cannot account for every factor influencing your recovery and energy levels. Exercising while fatigued or with a low readiness score isn’t inherently harmful, as long as it’s not a constant habit.
How does Fitbit determine the readiness score?
Fitbit explains that the updated readiness score—now calculated differently than before—incorporates your sleep patterns, resting heart rate (RHR), and heart rate variability (HRV).
Typically, a lower RHR suggests you’re well-rested and recovering effectively. Conversely, a higher RHR may signal stress from exercise, illness, or even a bad night’s sleep. Alcohol consumption can also temporarily elevate your RHR.
HRV works inversely—higher values are preferable and signify better recovery.
As outlined in the Fitbit app, your sleep quality is assessed based on the past 14 days of sleep data.
How do I access my readiness score?
To begin, you’ll require one of the supported devices mentioned earlier, the most recent Fitbit app update, and a week’s worth of data. This entails wearing your watch to bed every night for seven consecutive days.
The readiness score will be displayed as one of the key metrics on the Fitbit app’s home screen. You can also check it directly on your watch or device. For instance, it’s accessible through the Fitbit Today app on Pixel Watches, and you can add a Readiness complication to your preferred watch face.
How reliable is the readiness score?
There’s no definitive way to gauge the accuracy of this feature. While metrics like heart rate can be cross-checked with other devices for precision, a calculated “score” remains subjective. If Fitbit rates my readiness at 65, that’s simply its interpretation.
In my Pixel Watch 3 review, I compared Fitbit’s readiness score with those from Oura and Garmin devices. Fitbit consistently provided lower scores, and the trends didn’t align well across the platforms. For example, on a day when Fitbit gave me a 65, Oura showed 85, and Garmin indicated 79. Determining which is correct is impossible.
