Apple Watch calorie tracking differs between Elliptical and Indoor Run

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Level 1

58 points

Apple Watch calorie tracking differs between Elliptical and Indoor Run

Apple Watch 27.0.1 Testing with Elliptical and Indoor Run.

My aim is to burn Calories. I’ve experimented with doing two short Indoor runs one measured with Elliptical, and the other with Indoor run. What I have found is that using Elliptical gives me kcal similar to what I used for Indoor run pre 27.0.1. 5.2 kcal per minute. Using Indoor run produces 2.4 kcal per minute.

In my ignorance, I thought that the kcal would be the same for both.

Posted on Oct 21, 2026 10:47 AM

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Answer 1

WheelieNick

Level 9

71,676 points

Oct 21, 2026 11:10 AM in response to Snow Tiger

The Apple Watch uses entirely different mathematical algorithms and sensor weights for each workout type, which is why tracking the exact same physical effort under two different labels yields dramatically different calorie results.

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Answer 2

Snow Tiger Author

Level 1

58 points

Oct 21, 2026 11:42 AM in response to WheelieNick

thanks for this, it does make sense. I guess I’m searching for a reason why my Indoor runs, are so different since WatchOS 27.0.1 - demoralising. Outdoor runs are fine though. No sign of WatchOS 27.0.2 yet

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