Related Article: Calibrate your Apple Watch for improved Workout and Activity accuracy

Pool swim not accurately identifying stroke

Since the last update, my watch has not accurately identified strokes during pool swims. Has anyone else noticed this, and have any thoughts on correcting it? Thanks!

Apple Watch Series 7, watchOS 9

Posted on Aug 28, 2023 11:23 AM

Reply
2 replies

Aug 29, 2023 9:53 AM in response to kathleanb

Hi kathleanb,


You started from an excellent resource: Calibrate your Apple Watch for improved Workout and Activity accuracy


If you've completed those steps check out the information below and steps from the article here: Swim with your Apple Watch - Apple Support


"Get better results


  • Your Apple Watch estimates your measurements during workouts based on the information that you entered during setup. Here's how each workout is measured: 


    • Pool Swim: When you start a workout, be sure to accurately set the pool length to help your Apple Watch measure laps and distance. GPS isn't used during a Pool Swim, and water might prevent a heart-rate measurement, but calories, laps, and distance will still be tracked using the built-in accelerometer.
    • Open Water Swim: GPS will only provide distance when you do a freestyle stroke. Water might prevent a heart-rate measurement, but calories will still be tracked using the built-in accelerometer."


Additionally, you'll want to be sure the fit of your Apple Watch during your workout is correct. The article here can help: Wearing your Apple Watch - Apple Support



If you continue to have an issue, reach out to Apple Support directly to further assist. Get Support



Cheers.

Aug 30, 2023 9:29 AM in response to OrigamiFan1

Hi OrigamiFan1,


Many thanks for the quick reply. My problem is more that the apple watch is mis-identifying strokes, specifically identifying freestyle as breaststroke. Prior to the last OS update, the watch was accurately tracking and identifying stroke. I'm curious as to why this has changed and, ideally, I'd like to correct it.


Any thoughts on that?

Pool swim not accurately identifying stroke

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.