What is happening here is that your health watch is monitoring  repetitive movements. Some movements can be recognized as a specific activity like cycling, walking, or running.  Movement of your arms is used to determine your activity level, so activities that require a higher degree of consistent arm movement, even something like knitting, can result in increased step numbers. As well, if you are carrying heavy bags your arms may not have as much motion as your regular walking stride, and because of this step numbers might be lower.

Active minutes will be counted when the heart rate is above 50% of your maximal heart rate for at least 10 minutes and are not impacted by wrong activity recognition. Active minutes can help you to maintain your physical condition.