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Ka5 Author

Level 1

8 points

Active vs Total calories

I just got the Apple Watch and have been using the indoor pool swim feature. My last 1 hr swim recorded 338 active calories and 416 total calories. So- is the 416 total calories burned the number I want to look at (active plus resting = total) for calories burned during that exercise period? They both seem lower than I would have thought? Also, I noticed it does not record any kick or drill activity where my arm with the watch is not moving. Does this mean it is not recording (active) calories for this as Well?

Posted on Nov 12, 2016 8:02 AM

Top-ranking reply

Jonathan UK

Level 10

163,859 points

Posted on Nov 12, 2016 8:04 AM

Yes - active + resting = total calories.

During indoor swimming workouts, Apple Watch relies on your arm motion when estimating results. It also analyses your stroke efficiency over time to improve the accuracy of estimations.

Reported results will therefore be affected by using training aids (eg wearing fins) and when not using your arms (eg when using a kickboard).

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Active vs Total calories