Apple Watch is among the most popular smartwatches available globally. The latest device models come with an elegant display, capable chipset, and a durable design. Additionally, the smartwatch provides relatively accurate readings of health-related metrics like heart rate, calories burnt, blood-oxygen level, and more. Hence, most users like to wear their Apple Watch to workouts, including water-based activities such as swimming. But there are a couple of things that users should keep in mind to get the best results from their Apple Watch while swimming.
Before taking their Apple Watch to a pool, users should be aware of the water-resistance degree of their device. For instance, the Apple Watch Series 2 and models launched afterward have a water-resistance rating of 50 meters. So, users can take these Apple Watch models for a swim. However, it is essential to know that even the latest models are not meant for extensive water sports. Additionally, while the water-resistance of an Apple Watch is at its peak when the device is new, it gets weaker over time.
On their Apple Watch Series 2 or later, users should open the Workout application and scroll to locate 'Pool Swim' or 'Open Water Swim,' depending upon the activity they want to do. After that, users can tap on the three-dot icon to set a time/distance/calorie goal or start the workout, which begins after a countdown of three seconds. For best results, users who swim in a pool should enter the length of the pool, which helps the Apple Watch to measure the laps and other metrics accurately. To further optimize their session, users should select the metric they want to be displayed on the watch face, as the Apple Watch locks itself to prevent accidental taps from water droplets. Additionally, users should ensure that the watch sits firmly on their wrist.
Eject Water From The Apple Watch When Done With Simming
If users take a break while swimming, they should simultaneously hold the Digital Crown and side button to pause their workout. Then, to resume, users should press the same buttons again. Once users are done with the swim, they should wipe the smartwatch screen and turn the Digital Crown all the way to unlock the screen and eject any water that might have entered the speaker vent (the device makes a sound when it ejects water). This is a crucial step as any residual water in the watch might damage the internal components, resulting in inaccurate readings or severe damage to the smartwatch. Then, they should swipe right and tap the 'End' button.
Once users are done with the workout, the Apple Watch shows them a summary of their session, including the total time, distance covered, actively burned calories, average heart rate and laps. Users can even check the strokes they used while swimming and their average pace via the Apple Fitness app. In addition, Apple mentions on the official support page that Pool Swim automatically tracks users' splits and auto sets, whereas the Open Water Swim workout only tracks splits. These metrics help a user get the best results as they can focus on their weak spots and strengthen them by monitoring via the Apple Watch.
Source: Apple