Xiaomi's technological advancement and the integration of the PAI metric have revolutionized physical activity tracking and health management on smart devices.From fitness bands to cutting-edge watches, this innovative metric has been implemented in numerous wearables from Xiaomi, Amazfit, and other brands in the ecosystem, positioning itself as a benchmark tool for those who want to monitor their well-being in a simple, personalized, and scientifically backed way.
What is the PAI metric and why is it so important?
PAI stands for Personal Activity Intelligence (Personal Activity Intelligence). This is a Advanced algorithm developed by Huami and scientifically validated, designed to individually calculate the real impact of your physical activity on your cardiovascular health. Unlike other traditional metrics such as steps or calories burned, PAI combines key personal data (age, sex, weight, fitness level, resting and maximum heart rate, body response to exercise, etc.) and processes it into a single score which reflects the effort made and, above all, its impact on health.
The result is a numerical value that usually ranges between 1 and 150, where reaching 100 points is considered the recommended threshold to obtain the maximum cardioprotective benefit, as supported by the HUNT clinical study, one of the largest conducted worldwide.
The key to this system is its adaptation: The same PAI value does not imply the same effort for all peopleThe algorithm adjusts the challenge to your personal characteristics and physical condition, ensuring that the goals are challenging yet achievable for any user of any age or fitness level.
Origin, scientific evidence and evolution of PAI
The PAI algorithm is based on the HUNT Fitness study, led by Professor Ulrik Wisloff at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. This landmark research spanned more than 25 years, involved more than 45.000 people, and was validated in various international populations, including more than 230.000 participants in its extension. The results showed that maintaining a PAI score of 100 or higher It is associated with a significant reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease (around 25%) and can increase life expectancy by 5 to 10 years.
La PAI was not born solely as a self-motivation system: its objective is to offer a prevention tool and guidance for the general user, helping to combat sedentary lifestyle with personalized, evidence-based parameters.
Technology It has gone from being applied to devices from the subsidiary Amazfit and Huami It has spread rapidly across most smartbands and smartwatches from Xiaomi and Zepp, and is also present in brands such as Fitbit and Polar through the PAI Health app, reaching millions of users worldwide.
How the PAI metric works: calculation, parameters, and adaptation
PAI calculates a score based on the last 7 consecutive days of activityThe goal is to keep the weekly average above 100 points, although the mechanics allow the user to earn up to 75 points per day. The ideal limit is usually set at 150, although most devices set it at 100-125 points to obtain the greatest benefits.
The factors that influence the calculation are mainly:
- Age and sex, to customize the heart rate threshold and adjust the recommended effort.
- Current weight and physical condition, which determine how your body responds to exercise.
- Maximum and resting heart rate, values measured by the sensor built into the wearable.
- Duration, intensity and type of physical activity performed in the weekly period.
- Variation and regularity of your workouts: The algorithm requires consistency to avoid losing points and encourages you to remain active over the long term.
In this way, the system is able to Convert any type of exercise that raises your heart rate into PAI points: running, brisk walking, cycling, gym workouts, swimming, dancing, stair climbing, or even vigorous everyday tasks. What matters is the physiological impact on the heart and regularity, rather than the specific type of activity.
The algorithm adapts progressively: At the beginning of using PAI it is easier to add points, but as your fitness improves, you'll need to increase the level of demand or intensity to maintain the same level, which keeps you motivated and challenged at all times.
Advantages of PAI over other classic metrics
While most devices focus on the number of daily steps, calories or exercise time, PAI offers much more valuable insight to health:
- Full customization: The goal is different for each person; not everyone needs the same effort to be healthy.
- Cardiovascular health monitoring: directly measures the impact of exercise on the heart.
- Gamification and motivation: Earning daily and weekly points motivates you to maintain your activity over time, even helping you compete with friends or family through official apps.
- Inclusivity: Any type of exercise that raises the heart rate counts, ideal for those who cannot follow conventional routines or have physical restrictions.
- Scientific validation: No other single parameter is based on so much proven clinical evidence of cardiovascular benefits and longevity.
- Simplicity and clarity: The user only needs to worry about maintaining the PAI points, without having to go through the hassle of analyzing dozens of metrics or statistics that are difficult to interpret.
How to achieve and maintain an optimal PAI level?
The basic recommendation, supported by the evidence, is exceed 100 PAI points on a sustained basis over timeAccording to studies, exceeding this value on a weekly basis means:
- Reduction of up to 25% in cardiovascular diseases.
- Increase of between 5 and 10 years in life expectancy.
- Significant improvement in physical and mental well-being.
To achieve this, simply:
- Complete at least one hour of moderate-high intensity exercise several times a week (e.g., running, brisk walking, spinning, swimming, or gym routines that get your heart pumping).
- Walk between 30 and 45 minutes daily It also helps to accumulate points, especially if combined with some more intense exercise.
- Avoid long periods of inactivity: If you go more than two weeks without any activity, your PAI will drop to zero..
- Be consistent and progressive: As you progress, you will have to work harder to maintain the same points., which keeps you motivated and evolving.
What devices are compatible with PAI?
PAI metric compatibility is growing and covers a very wide range of devices. from Xiaomi, Amazfit, Zepp and also some smartbands and smartwatches from other brands such as Fitbit and Polar through the PAI Health app, reaching millions of users around the world.
Some of the most popular compatible models are:
- Xiaomi:
- Mi Smart Band 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and their Pro variants
- Mi Watch, Mi Watch S1 Active, Mi Watch Lite
- Amazfit:
- Amazfit Band 5, Band 7
- Amazfit GTR, GTR 2, 3, 3 Pro, 4, 4 Pro, 2e, 2rd
- Amazfit GTS, GTS 2, 3, 4, GTS 2 mini, GTS 4 Mini, GTS e
- Amazfit Bip U, Bip U Pro, Bip S, Beep U
- Amazfit T-Rex, T-Rex Pro, T-Rex 2
- Amazfit Nexo, Amazfit X, Verge
- Zepp E, Zepp Z
- Others:
- Fitbit and Polar devices compatible with the PAI Health app
- Apple Watch (recent series, via PAI Health for iOS)
The number of devices is constantly increasing, and PAI integration is now standard on almost all Xiaomi, Amazfit, and Zepp wearables released in recent years.
How to activate, use, and deactivate PAI on your Xiaomi or Amazfit device
For Xiaomi bracelets and watches (Mi Band, Smart Band, Mi Watch…)
- Download and pair your device with the app Zepp Life (formerly Mi Fit) or My Fitness.
- Access your profile in the app, select your bracelet or watch.
- Activate the continuous or automatic heart rate monitoring option.
- On your device screen, you'll find the PAI menu or widget, where you can track your daily and weekly progress.
For Amazfit and Zepp watches
- Link the clock with the Zepp app (available on Android and iOS).
- Select your model in your profile and access your health options.
- Enable heart rate monitoring and customize PAI-related notifications or alerts.
- Track your points earned and your progress on the watch's main screen and in the app.
Can PAI be disabled? Does it affect the battery?
Yes, you can disable PAI tracking at any time by disabling continuous heart rate monitoring in your device's app. This will improve battery life, although you will lose advanced monitoring and reminders associated with the PAI metric.
Disabling PAI does not negatively affect other features of your watch or bracelet, and you can reactivate it whenever you want by repeating the above process.
Common mistakes and doubts about PAI
- I don't see the updated points: This could be due to a lack of sync between the wearable and the app. Try syncing again manually or restart both devices.
- I lose PAI points suddenly: Daily points only count for 7 days. If you stop exercising, your score will gradually decrease until it disappears completely.
- Is it the same as “sport modes”? No. Sport modes monitor specific activities. PAI is an aggregate metric that does not matter the type of exercise: Add up all efforts that raise your heart rate above your threshold, regardless of the sport.
- Can I get over 100-125 points? Yes, some devices allow you to accumulate up to 150 points per week, although the clinical goal is to stay at or above 100.
- Does PAI help you compare with friends? Yes. The Zepp and Zepp Life apps allow you to add friends and view their PAI metrics, which encourages motivation through “healthy competition.”
- What happens if I stop training? After two weeks of inactivity, you'll have to start over to recover points and the habit. The system is designed to reward continuity.
Comparison of PAI with other fitness tracking apps and alternatives
In addition to PAI, there are other options for monitoring your health and exercise through apps such as Strava, Google Fit, or Samsung Health. However, none of them offer a personalized clinical metrics based exclusively on cardiovascular health as PAI does.
However, you can make PAI compatible with the registration of other activities using these third-party applications, thus fully tracking both your cardiovascular activity and other parameters (distance, GPS routes, calories, etc.).
PAI's integration as a widget or additional metric on numerous devices and applications makes it a flexible and easily combinable option according to your preferences and needs.
Benefits of gamification and social motivation with PAI
One of PAI's great successes is turning exercise and health improvement into a fun and social challenge.Thanks to competition with friends, the ability to share your score, and immediate feedback from the wearable, adherence and consistency in physical activity are encouraged.
Xiaomi's Zepp Life app, for example, allows you to create groups, view the weekly PAI point ranking, and motivate each other to reach or exceed your clinical goal. Smart notifications and reminders also help you avoid long periods of inactivity and maintain regularity even on days with little time or motivation.
What impact does PAI have on actual long-term health?
The PAI metric is much more than just a “points game.” It is a preventive tool based on population medicineBy translating efforts into a figure that anyone can understand and personalizing goals, it allows you to:
- Reduce the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes.
- Encourage physical activity in sedentary people or those with irregular routines.
- Promote healthy habits in older people, those who are convalescing, or those who want to lose weight safely.
- Monitoring cardiovascular health in young people, adults, and athletes in a simple and motivating way.
The accessibility and simplicity of this metric make it ideal for all audiences, as it doesn't require advanced knowledge or specific medical follow-up. However, it can be a great ally for both inexperienced users and people who want to improve their performance.
How to make the most of PAI on your Xiaomi or Amazfit
- Set realistic and personalized goals: Don't obsess over the number, but rather over the trend and consistency. If you're starting from zero, first reach 50-60 points and work your way up.
- Vary your activities: Alternate different exercises so that your heart rate reacts effectively, avoiding monotony.
- Use the official app and update your device's firmware: This way you can be sure you have the latest features and improvements in your calculations.
- Follow the feedback from your watch or bracelet: You will often receive alerts to move, specific recommendations, or warnings if your score drops.
- Invite your friends and family to compete with you: Social support can be the key to maintaining the habit and having more fun at the same time.
FAQs about PAI on Xiaomi and Amazfit devices
- What if I have an old wearable? If it's newer than the Mi Band 5 or Amazfit Band 5, it's likely compatible, although some older models may not support the algorithm due to hardware limitations.
- How do I know if my model has PAI? Consult the manual, the official data sheet on the brand's website, or the Zepp Life/Zepp app. Current models almost always include the PAI function.
- Can I use PAI even if I don't do intense sports? Yes, the metric adapts to your level and type of activity. Even vigorous daily activities earn points if they raise your heart rate above the recommended threshold.
- What if I have any health restrictions? Before starting an intense routine or changing your habits, consult your doctor. PAI helps you adapt your efforts, but professional monitoring is always advisable if you have any pre-existing conditions.
The future of PAI: integration, advancements, and new trends
The PAI metric continues to evolve and integrate into new devices and platforms.Xiaomi and its partner companies continue to improve the algorithm to make it more accurate and versatile, incorporating machine learning and new sources of biometric data (stress monitoring, sleep quality, oxygen saturation, etc.).
It is expected that in the coming years the Gamification, collective challenges and integration with social platforms be further enhanced, making physical activity tracking something everyday, motivating, and fully integrated into users' digital lives.
Furthermore, the trend points to Other manufacturers will adopt the PAI metric or similar systems, extending the benefits of personalized monitoring to the entire fitness and digital health industry.
By adopting the PAI metric on your Xiaomi, Amazfit, or compatible wearable, you gain a valuable and scientifically validated tool to improve your well-being, motivate yourself daily, and take care of your cardiovascular health in a simple and personalized way. The convenience, goal-oriented nature of the PAI, and its adaptability make it an undisputed benchmark in the new era of smart fitness.
