Very slow saving and syncing of custom running workouts since watchOS 26.1

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Level 1

15 points

Very slow saving and syncing of custom running workouts since watchOS 26.1

The saving and syncing behavior of running workouts has changed with watchOS 26.1. "Open runs" take noticeably longer to save, and after completion, the Workout app remains open longer than before, or rather, the green icon (top center) remains visible longer. The difference compared to previous versions is only around 20-30 seconds, so it's not a big deal.

However, custom workouts (interval training) take several minutes to save or don't save at all, forcing me to force quit the Workout app. As a result, the saved running workout is then lost.

I have an Apple Watch Ultra 3.

Posted on Dec 30, 2025 12:28 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Ingo2711

Level 10

80,241 points

Dec 30, 2025 3:11 AM in response to AWRunner

Did you already try to force restart your Apple Watch after the latest watchOS 26.2 update?

To force restart your watch, press and hold the Digital Crown and the Side button together for about 10sec, until the Apple logo comes back again.

And, just to be sure, force restart your iPhone as well:

Force restart iPhone - Apple Support

If this does not help, unpairing and pairing the Apple Watch again has helped other users to sync the workouts again normally.

Unpair and erase your Apple Watch - Apple Support

You can also add your workout data manually, in case syncing went wrong:

How to manually add a workout in the Health app - Apple Support

If you do that within 24hours after the initial workout, it will also effect your Fitness rings.

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Answer 2

Ingo2711

Level 10

80,241 points

Dec 30, 2025 1:02 PM in response to AWRunner

You should let Apple Techs know directly about this issue by using the Feedback link, especially if the new Ultra 3 is part of the problem.

Feedback - iPhone - Apple

Feedback - Watch - Apple

The more users do that, the more likely the issue will be noticed by Apple Techs and hopefully Apple will come up with a solution for those users effected.

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Answer 3

AWRunner Author

Level 1

15 points

Dec 30, 2025 3:34 AM in response to Ingo2711

Yes, restarted my watch multiple times. Also restored from backup and also set up as new watch. Did not change anything sadly.

I am not alone with this problem as this Reddit thread shows:

https://www.reddit.com/r/AppleWatch/comments/1ptqy65/apple_watch_ultra_failes_to_save_custom_workout/

This thread here (unsolved) seems to address the same problem too:

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/256195464?sortBy=rank

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