How to start a workout on an Apple Watch

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

The Workout app records your exercise accurately and adds it to your Activity rings. Starting a workout matters: without it, the watch measures heart rate and movement much less often.

Step by step

1. Open the Workout app

   It has a green icon with a running figure.

   Done

2. Choose the activity

   Turn the Digital Crown to Outdoor Walk, Outdoor Run, Cycling, Pool Swim, Strength Training or another type. Tap Add Workout at the bottom for more.

   Done

3. Tap the workout to start

   A countdown runs. Tap the screen to skip it. To set a goal first, tap the three dots or the icon in the corner of the workout tile.

   Done

4. Check your numbers

   Raise your wrist to see time, heart rate and distance. Turn the Digital Crown for other views.

   Done

5. Pause or end

   Swipe right and tap Pause or End. Pressing the side button and the Digital Crown together also pauses.

   Done

6. Read the summary

   It appears on the watch, and in the Fitness app on the iPhone with a map for outdoor workouts.

   Done

Good to know

If you forget, the watch notices common activities such as walking, running and swimming after a few minutes and offers to record them, with credit for the time already done.

For outdoor distance without the iPhone, wait a few seconds after opening the app so the watch can find GPS.

For swimming, the screen locks automatically. Hold the Digital Crown to unlock and clear water: how to use Water Lock.

Calibrating improves accuracy: walk or run outdoors for about 20 minutes with the iPhone, using the Workout app.

In short: Workout app, choose the activity, tap to start. Swipe right, End.