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Fitbit Zip Review (and Giveaway!!!!!)

Fitbit Zip Review

The New Year is just around the corner and with that comes a slew of New Year’s Resolutions.

This is year I’m taking a different approach t0 resolutions rather than change a “bad habit” I’ve decided to improve upon an already good habit, walking. I’m setting a goal to walk at least 3, 000,000 steps in 2013! Three million steps may sound like a lot until you break it down and see it’s 10,000 steps on 3oo hundred days of 2013.  Totally doable!

Reaching that goal is going to be simpler with my new Fitbit Zip.

The Zip is a newish gadget from Fitbit. Zip tracks your number of steps, calories burned, distance, and it is a clock. It automatically (after intial set up) and wirelessly syncs to your computer and select smartphones.

Here is what I think after wearing the Fitbit Zip for a over month now.

Fitbit Zip Review

“Yeah yeah!!!”

Secure: My Fitbit Zip stays in place all day long whether clipped to the my waistband, inside my pocket, or on my bra.

Fitbit Zip Review

Easy to Read: A few taps on the screen scrolls through your stats. If you have a compatible smartphone you can check your stats without even looking at the device.

Motivating: The Fitbit Zip is great for those who want to move more and need a little extra push to get up. (Ahem!)

Screenshot of Fitbit Dashboard

Screenshot of Mobile Fitbit App

No Monthly Subscription Fee:  When you purchase the Zip you gain access to their free (and easy to use) online dashboard and free mobile app which shows your daily and cumulative progress.

Syncs with Other Health Apps: I just recently opened up a MyFitnessPal to account to stay accountable to a friend. (Do I really want that extra glass of wine?) I was excited to find out that MyFitnessPal syncs my meals and activities to my Fitbit account and adjusts my daily net calorie goal based on my activity. Check out the list of Fitbit compatible apps.

The Initial Set Up: The initial set up was easy. You just insert the battery using the battery door tool and set up your free Fitbit account and sync using the USB dongle.

Excellent Customer Service: I had a few questions about synching to my computer (I didn’t realize I needed to keep the dongle in my USB port.) and Fitbit emailed me back quickly with a friendly and helpful response.

Fun!!!: It’s fun to go on a hike and see how much you walked. It’s fun to look at your progress on your Fitbit dashboard. It’s fun to set and reach goals. It’s fun to get an email congratulating you on reaching your goals.

“Hmmm???”

Remember to Add Your Activity:  You have to enter any extra activity other than walking separately to get a more accurate calorie burn. This is especially important if you are tracking your calories. You want to make sure you are eating enough to support your caloric output so your metabolism stays firing so don’t forget to add that extra activity.

Not always lightening fast: Most of the time it syncs quickly but sometimes it takes a minute or two to sync to my computer or phone. Not a big deal but wanted to let you know.

Not rechargeable: Unlike it’s cousin the Fitbit, the Zip is not rechargeable and uses a watch battery. The battery will last 4-6 months. On one hand I would prefer it to be rechargeable. On the other hand, it’s really great to not have an extra cord to deal with or have to remember to charge it.

Questions you may have about my Fitbit Zip Review.

What is the difference between the Fitbit One and the Fitbit Zip?

The Zip is less expensive than the One. The Zip doesn’t track sleep, floors climbed, or have an alarm. You can compare the Fitbit Zip to the Fitbit One side by side here.

Fitbit Zip Review

How big is the Fitbit Zip?

It’s small but not so small that you worry about losing it. I also don’t have any trouble hiding it when I want to wear it but not see it.

Do you think the calorie burn is accurate?

I have never had my metabolism professionally tested so I can’t comment with certainty on its accuracy. I will say I  think it is a very good estimate. My calories burned on the Zip (as long as I add my extra activities) are comparable to other activity trackers I have used.  As always it’s most important to listen to your body over a device. If you are hungry then eat. If you are exhausted then rest no matter what a device says. I use the Fitbit Zip as it is intended as a motivational tool and it’s AWESOME! Most of my favorite activities are sedentary and the Zip gives me the motivation I need to get up and move more. 

Fitbit Zip Giveaway

Here is the best part of my Fitbit Zip review!! You can win a Fitbit Zip to help you reach your New Year’s goals!!! Fitbit has generously offered to give one Zip away to a Girl Heroes reader.  

You have up to 6 chances to win! To enter fill out the form below. (If you are on your phone it may take a few moments for the form to load.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway open to US residents 18 and older only!

Have you ever used a Fitbit Zip or other activity tracker?  What was your experience? Are you setting any fitness goals for 2013? 

Hugs and High Fives,
Jenn

Keep up with my kettlebell workouts, real food recipes, and more in one of three ways! 1. Sign up to have posts emailed to your inbox. 2. Subscribe to the RSS Feed or 3. “like” Girl Heroes on Facebook. Simple dimple!

Journey with our family on the road at Newschool Nomads as we travel full time in RV through the United States!

Disclosure: I was provided a Fitbit Zip  for the purpose of this review.  All opinions are my own.

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Tags: fitness gagets, giveaways, reviews

About jennincat

I'm so happy you stopped by my little corner of the web where I write about fitness, food, and amazing women I "meet". I live in California with my wonderful husband and two rambunctious boys. I'm a personal trainer and dreamer. I enjoy most things but some of my favorites are reading, acting, camping, cooking, music, writing, traveling, and being in the moment with my favorite people! You can read more about me here! I hope you stop by often!
View all posts by jennincat →

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110 Responses to “Fitbit Zip Review (and Giveaway!!!!!)”

  1. On December 27, 2012 at 1:19 pm Biku Toria responded with... #

    I am trying to walk at least 2 miles per day and play Kinect for 1 hour while reducing my weight and cholesterol.

    Reply
  2. On December 27, 2012 at 2:29 pm janetha responded with... #

    Cool! Thanks for the review. I had never heard of these and M got me one for Christmas. I have yet to open it up, but I am excited to check it out. Love you!

    Reply
  3. On December 27, 2012 at 3:03 pm Alicia responded with... #

    I’m trying to get back into regularly exercising. I do so well when it’s a habit and have a routine, but my routine went out the window this last six months. But now that it’s just me and I’m not letting someone else make me feel like I don’t have to exercise, I’m gradually getting back to it. Soooo tough, though. Your kettlebell routines are a lifesaver!

    Reply
  4. On December 27, 2012 at 4:29 pm Lisa responded with... #

    One of my goals this year is to move more with my kids & dogs. More walking, and hiking to build better bodies, minds and relationships!

    Reply
  5. On December 27, 2012 at 8:50 pm Julie responded with... #

    I have been considering a simple tracker like this and really enjoyed your review!

    Reply
  6. On December 27, 2012 at 9:10 pm Denise m responded with... #

    one of my goals is to finally run a 5K

    Reply
  7. On December 27, 2012 at 9:35 pm Katie responded with... #

    Jenn!!! I was just looking at these online last week and I really want one. The science nerd in me just loves any and all things numbers and you can make graphs!!!!

    I haven’t given too much thought to resolutions, but I don’t like to give things up, so I think I’m going to set a goal to do one random act of kindness every week for the year. The little things that others do for me make me feel so great, so why not spread the love, right?

    Reply
  8. On December 27, 2012 at 10:29 pm Michelle in N. Cal responded with... #

    Hello! Your blog post came up within the same session I was searching for reviews of a Fitbit! Can you imagine that? I think I might try it out mostly to make me more accountable – I really need that right now … Ahh resolutions? The same ole: seek some balance in my life 😉 xo

    Reply
  9. On December 28, 2012 at 6:31 am Missy responded with... #

    I love gadgets! I have used the Omron pedometer before and it is motivational! I am continuing to resolve to get my 10000 steps in most days. I also want to get weight/resistance training in as well. For some reason it’s harder to get motivated to do that.
    Great review and giveaway!
    Hugs!

    Reply
  10. On December 28, 2012 at 8:49 am Jenny responded with... #

    My main goal this year is to continue with the momentum that I’ve been able the tap into the last six months to rebuild/reinvent my life; I’m on an awesome path. :-) Fitness/health oriented goals involve exercising/moving every day. I joined up with the Morning Mile effort over at Nerd Fitness and I’ve continued that into December and don’t want to stop. It would be awesome to track my steps on top of that effort. Non-fitness related goals include taking up archery and learning to play the banjo. 2012 ended up awesome and I’m ready to rock 2013 HARD.

    Reply
  11. On December 28, 2012 at 10:02 am Heather Hayes Panjon responded with... #

    My Fitness Goal Is To Establish A Daily Fitness Routine For A Healthier 2013!

    Reply
  12. On December 28, 2012 at 10:51 am Dani responded with... #

    My goal for 2013 is to finish my first half marathon.

    Reply
  13. On December 28, 2012 at 11:28 am Margaret B responded with... #

    My big goal is to get faster with my running.

    I maintained a consistent fitness routine through the holidays so now it is time to kick it up a notch!

    Reply
  14. On December 28, 2012 at 12:47 pm Anne W. responded with... #

    One of my goals is to run at an 8 minute mile pace :) Thank you for the giveaway!

    Reply
  15. On December 28, 2012 at 2:11 pm Carol Adams responded with... #

    I want to try to move more every day. I have A neuro disease called NMO ( sim to MS) so it makes it difficult..

    Reply
  16. On December 28, 2012 at 6:30 pm Taryn responded with... #

    I hope to get healthy for my future children!!

    Reply
  17. On December 28, 2012 at 6:31 pm Julia responded with... #

    Hi!

    So nice to stumble across your blog!

    My goal for 2013 is to eat clean and go to the gym for 30 min AT LEAST 5x a week!

    Thanks! Julia

    Reply
  18. On December 28, 2012 at 6:46 pm Stacie S-H responded with... #

    One of my goals for next year is to spend less and save more (money wise) . I have a gym membership but am going to cancel it..sad day. The new one that opened is farther away and we are usually out til 10pm at night and the gym location closes at 10 or 11 I forget, sad bc its only $10/month and I was religiously going 4 days a week for about 5 months but didnt see a change in my weight hardly at all and got discouraged and burned out. So..hopefully by saving more money we will eat healthy meals at home instead of eating out so much

    Reply
  19. On December 28, 2012 at 7:05 pm Mandy responded with... #

    Awesome! Looks like a cool product :) I would love to give it a go!

    Reply
  20. On December 28, 2012 at 7:20 pm Hannah responded with... #

    I’d love to explore new forms of exercise in 2013!

    Reply
  21. On December 28, 2012 at 7:21 pm Johnna responded with... #

    This looks like it’s easy to use and the fact that it syncs with other apps and I can use my phone to view my activity – BONUS!! Awesome giveaway – thanks!

    Reply
  22. On December 28, 2012 at 7:40 pm Emily responded with... #

    My number one goal: run my first half marathon!

    Reply
  23. On December 28, 2012 at 7:54 pm Danielle K responded with... #

    My goal is to lose the last 20lbs of baby weight!

    Reply
  24. On December 28, 2012 at 7:59 pm Kristen@FollowingFit responded with... #

    10 unassisted chin ups next year!

    Reply
  25. On December 28, 2012 at 8:03 pm Nicole G responded with... #

    I hope to run a half marathon!

    Reply
  26. On December 28, 2012 at 8:12 pm Amy responded with... #

    New year’s goal — Keep in touch with family by calling once a week!

    Reply
  27. On December 28, 2012 at 8:28 pm Rebecca @ Runner with an Appetite responded with... #

    My goal is to do my spring 100 miler in less than 24 hours!

    Reply
  28. On December 28, 2012 at 8:30 pm kristine responded with... #

    i have no intentions of working out :) but i watch 3-5 kids a day and i’ve started catering and i speedwalk my whole shift. i’m so curious to see how many steps i’m really getting in in a day! i hope it’s more than i think! but i would be bummed if it’s less!

    Reply
  29. On December 28, 2012 at 8:39 pm Lisa @ Lisa Living Well responded with... #

    I need to meal plan more in 2013.

    Reply
  30. On December 28, 2012 at 8:53 pm Jess P responded with... #

    I’m trying to cut out some of my convenience things….like eating out too frequently and buying single portioned things.

    Reply
  31. On December 28, 2012 at 9:54 pm ALF responded with... #

    Trying to lose weight and and I tried the UP before the new release. Didn’t work, so now I’m saving up for a fitbit! If I win, I can use the money elsewhere!

    Reply
  32. On December 28, 2012 at 11:36 pm Jenn responded with... #

    What a great tool to see how active you have been and I love the goal you set to walk 3million steps next year! I’d really like to join you and set my own goal!

    Reply
  33. On December 28, 2012 at 11:58 pm Rachel responded with... #

    I am starting crossfit!

    Reply
  34. On December 29, 2012 at 12:04 am hensley responded with... #

    I want to try crossfit as well!

    Reply
  35. On December 29, 2012 at 1:16 am Megan responded with... #

    My goal in 2013 is to get back to my pre-baby fitness levels by making time to be active daily and get back to cleaner eating!

    Reply
  36. On December 29, 2012 at 4:46 am Missy responded with... #

    My goal is more yoga and stretching.

    Reply
  37. On December 29, 2012 at 4:57 am marie responded with... #

    I will try to focus on being present and unplugging in 2013.

    Reply
  38. On December 29, 2012 at 5:49 am Joy responded with... #

    My goal is 700 classes at the gym
    That’s 2 a day with two weeks “vacation and sick time” I think I can

    Reply
  39. On December 29, 2012 at 6:44 am Chrissy responded with... #

    My goal is to lose this last ten pounds and to maintain… I want to also live in the moment more, not worry about the future and dwell on the past!

    Reply
  40. On December 29, 2012 at 7:05 am Deb responded with... #

    My fitness goals are to do something every single day -whether that is a class at the gym, some cardio, pilates or stretching! It all counts and it’s all good for making the body stronger at the end of the day.

    Reply
  41. On December 29, 2012 at 7:06 am Melody responded with... #

    My goal is to hit the gym at least 4 times a week.

    Reply
  42. On December 29, 2012 at 7:28 am Pat responded with... #

    Hello! I just found your website from “meals and moves” and saw the link for the fit bit giveaway. With 60 pounds to loose this would be a great piece of the pie in tracking my fitness goals. Thanks for the opportunity. Patricia Crilley

    Reply
  43. On December 29, 2012 at 7:28 am Jenn responded with... #

    I want to increase my daily activity and feel this will provide me with the accountability to do so!!

    Reply
  44. On December 29, 2012 at 7:48 am Becca responded with... #

    I want to try to floss every day, I downloaded an app called Lift that helps track how many days in a row you accomplish your goal!

    Reply
  45. On December 29, 2012 at 8:16 am Wendy responded with... #

    Hi Jenn! I just started using the zip myself. If you run and lift weights, should you log these activities? I was a bit confused as to if the zip captured these already or I need to enter them to capture a correct calorie burn! BTW- I just started following your blog- found you through Janetha at Meals and Moves!!

    Reply
    • On December 29, 2012 at 9:25 am jennincat responded with... #

      Hi Wendy! It is my understanding that you need to log weightlifting but not running unless you forget to wear your zip on your run. I’m logging everything separately except running and walking. Here is a link that might help. http://www.fitbit.com/manual#section-start Scroll down to “Track My Activites”. I hope this helps! Have a happy New Year! :-)

      Reply
      • On December 30, 2012 at 4:26 am Wendy responded with... #

        Thanks Jenn! That was very helpful!!! I also realized that even if i did add my running for tracking purposes- as long as I enter the exact time it will not double the activity! Happy New Year to you too!!

        Reply
  46. On December 29, 2012 at 10:39 am Marlene responded with... #

    My goal is to run everyday and eventually run a 1/2 marathon or marathon by the end of the year!

    Reply
  47. On December 29, 2012 at 10:45 am Amy responded with... #

    My goal for the new year is to get healthier and get in shape!

    Reply
  48. On December 29, 2012 at 10:55 am Shaunna responded with... #

    My goal in 2013 is learning and sticking to healthy habiys

    Reply
  49. On December 29, 2012 at 11:35 am Dacia responded with... #

    I don’t do new year’s resolutions, so my open-ended goal that started last July is to continue exercising 3-6 times per week and eating healthy. :)

    Reply
  50. On December 29, 2012 at 12:31 pm Elizabeth V responded with... #

    My 2013 goals are to finish my 1st marathon (Cleveland on May 19th) and to hopefully do another marathon in the fall!

    Reply
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Trackbacks/Pingbacks

  1. five things friday. - meals & moves | meals & moves - December 31, 2012

    […] oh, and coincidentally, jenn has an awesome review and giveaway about fitbit zip up on her blog now. check it out! […]

  2. Fitbit Zip | Big List of Giveaways - January 1, 2013

    […] Link to enter giveaway: http://www.girl-heroes.com/2012/12/27/fitbit-zip-review/ […]

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About this article

  • Posted on December 27, 2012
  • Archived in Reviews
  • There are 110 responses.
Disclosure: Occasionally, I receive free products. I'll let you know and pinky swear to write an honest review. This site also contains some affiliate links. I'm hoping to make a few pennies off of a product I have used, enjoy, and would recommend to a friend. These links helps cover the cost of running this site.

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