Apple Watch inaccurately counts freestyle swim laps during swim workout

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Apple Watch inaccurately counts freestyle swim laps during swim workout

When using my Apple Watch during a swim workout in my pool, the watch counts breast strokes perfectly, but counts only about half of my freestyle laps. This has been the case for months and I always keep my watch up to date.

Yes I’ve followed the support page that explains how to calibrate your watch and set the distance of your pool accurately.

Super frustrating to not be able to trust my watch for accurate fitness counts.

Apple Watch Series 4, watchOS 8

Posted on May 18, 2022 7:30 PM

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Answer 1

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Blake Hodges Author

Level 1

33 points

May 18, 2022 7:32 PM in response to Blake Hodges

After doing an experimental workout, I’ve collected some potentially helpful information.

If I force my swim pace to slow down, and deliberately take more freestyle strokes during each lap, it seems to count laps MORE accurately (though not perfectly). Good to know it’s more accurate with more strokes, but frustrating that I have to adjust my pace and style to get an accurate reading.

FYI, I’m noticing that if I take a left hand stroke for roughly every 2 yards of distance, it measures accurately. So with my 30ft pool, if i stroke with my Watch-Arm 5 times a lap PLUS a reach for the wall, it counts accurately.

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Apple Watch inaccurately counts freestyle swim laps during swim workout

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