The built-in Activity app is simple and motivates users to fill in their “move”, exercise, and stand rings. The Apple Health app can also pull in workout data from other brands and count it towards the daily exercise and stand goals.
One of the most important features is the GPS sensor, which allows users to leave their phones at home during runs. This is a significant improvement over earlier models and provides a more accurate readout of the distance travelled. In addition to tracking distance, the watch also calculates calorie burn, heart rate, average pace, and rolling pace. Rolling pace refers to the pace over the past mile at any given moment, and users can set pace alerts to notify them when they are going faster than intended.
For indoor runners, the Apple Watch integrates with some exercise equipment, such as treadmills, through a two-way pairing process. This process allows the device and the gym equipment to exchange information, resulting in a more accurate estimate of distance and effort. The watch also automatically detects workouts after a set period of time and includes the previous minutes if the workout was not initiated right away.
All of the workout statistics are displayed on a series of pages that can be swiped through from left to right. The watch also has an auto-pause option, which is faster than similar options on other brands, such as Garmin. Additionally, the Apple Watch can export workout data to MyFitnessPal, providing users with credit for their calorie burn. The watch includes several other health features, such as a built-in ECG test, fall detection, blood oxygen test, respiratory tracking, emergency calls, and menstrual tracking.
However, the limitations of the stats themselves should be noted. The watch does not have a mode for interval workouts and does not provide much customization for the data. For more detailed tracking, users may need to experiment with third-party running apps for the iPhone, such as Strava, RunKeeper, MapMyRun, Nike Run Club, and others.
In conclusion, while the Apple Watch is a versatile device for running and general fitness, it may not be the best option for more serious runners. For those who only want one smartwatch for both training and daily life, however, the Apple Watch is a strong contender.
Number 2. Garmin Forerunner 745
