The new watchOS 5 comes with a lot of new features and one of them is the new workout detection feature. This feature helps your Apple Watch to predict when you start working and then it helps you record it. Although this feature can begin automatically, there is a manual step you need to take first. Unlike Fitbit, your Apple Watch will not begin to record a workout automatically. Instead, it will display a notification on the screen of your Apple Watch asking if you would like to begin the workout it just detected.
This feature can be very helpful especially if you are the kind who forgets to track his workout. Now, do not worry as you will not lose points for your Move goal. Even if you start tracking your workout late, Apple will give you credit for the minutes you missed to track (but only as far back as your watch has recorded.
How Workout Detection Works in watchOS 5
This feature will be added to your Apple Watch as soon as you upgrade to watchOS 5. However, if the feature is not enabled, you can enable it by following the steps below.
- Launch the Settings app.
- Tap on General and then tap on Workout.
- Toggle on the switch next to the Start Workout Reminder and End Workout Reminder features.
Below are the types of workouts the automatic feature detection works for.
- Running
- Walking
- Swimming
- Elliptical
- Rower
Your Apple Watch will begin to track as soon as it detects movements and it will pair it with one of the workouts above. After a few minutes when Apple has recognized which workout it is, it will display a notification on the screen asking if you would like to start a workout.
Certain workouts have multiple versions. For example, if you are running, you can select whether it’s an outdoor run or an indoor run from the notification displayed on the screen. As soon as you tap on the notification, the Workouts view will appear on the screen.
How to End Workouts Automatically in watchOS 5
Your Apple Watch can also track when you have ender a workout but forgot to disable the tracking. When it notices this, it will display a notification with a text saying “Finished your workout?”. If you have finished working out, simply tap on the End Workout option to end the workout. You can also change your workout from the notification.
That’s all! So what do you think about the new feature? Do you find it helpful? Share your thoughts and feedback in the comments below.
