The Three Primary Methods for Logging Exercise
Cronometer offers flexible ways to track your physical activity, catering to different needs and levels of detail. These methods can be used individually or in combination to create a comprehensive picture of your daily energy expenditure.
1. Manual Entry: The Detailed Approach Manual entry is the most precise method if you prefer detailed tracking or don't use a wearable. You can log an exercise on the mobile app by tapping the orange '+' button, selecting 'Add Exercise,' searching the database for your activity, choosing an effort level, and entering the duration. Cronometer estimates calories burned based on your biometrics and MET values. Tap 'Add to Diary' to save.
2. Wearable Device Sync: The Seamless Solution Syncing a compatible fitness tracker or smartwatch provides automatic, real-time data, reducing the need for manual input. To use this method, connect your wearable (e.g., Apple Health, Fitbit, Garmin) via the app's settings. It's crucial to set your baseline activity level in Cronometer's Energy Settings to 'None' or ensure 'replace with imported activity' is checked to prevent double-counting. The app will then import your daily energy expenditure, including workouts and general activity.
3. Setting a Baseline Activity Level: The Simple Method If you have a consistent daily activity level and don't use a wearable, this option offers a good estimate. Access your Energy Settings via the 'More' menu. Select a baseline level (e.g., 'Sedentary,' 'Lightly Active') that reflects your typical day. Cronometer adds a fixed calorie amount based on this, which only changes if your biometrics or selected level are updated.
How to Create a Custom Exercise
If a specific activity isn't in Cronometer's database, you can create a custom entry. On the 'Add Exercise' screen, select 'Create Custom Exercise'. Enter the exercise name and the energy burned if you have data from another source. Save it for future use.
Comparison of Exercise Logging Methods
| Feature | Manual Entry | Wearable Sync | Baseline Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Very High (if user is diligent) | Very High (if device is accurate) | Low (estimate only) |
| Effort | High (requires user input) | Low (automatic) | Very Low (set once) |
| Best For | Varied workouts, no wearable | Consistent device use, precise data | Consistent daily routine, no device |
| Prevents Double-Counting | Requires setting baseline to 'Sedentary' | Requires setting baseline to 'None' | Naturally avoids double-counting |
| Real-time Data | No | Yes | No |
Avoiding Double-Counting Calories
Preventing double-counting is essential for accurate tracking. If you sync a wearable or manually log workouts, adjust your baseline activity level accordingly. For wearables, set it to 'None' or 'Sedentary' so device data is the primary source for non-BMR energy expenditure. If manually logging, choose a baseline that reflects movement excluding planned exercise to avoid overestimating total calories burned.
The Importance of Logging Exercise for Progress
Logging exercise provides vital insights for health and fitness goals. Tracking physical activity helps you understand total energy expenditure, which informs nutritional needs. Consistent logging monitors progress, correlates workout intensity with biometrics, and supports informed diet and fitness decisions.
Conclusion
Logging exercise in Cronometer is straightforward, offering options like manual entry, wearable sync, or a baseline activity level to fit your lifestyle. By understanding these methods and avoiding double-counting, you can maximize Cronometer's benefits for accurate and comprehensive health tracking towards your fitness goals.
For more detailed information on Cronometer's features, visit their official support page: Add an Exercise - Cronometer
