Hi
That is normal. Distance is not tracked for "Other" workouts, regardless of any naming label that may be selected when ending the workout.
Third-party apps
If you would prefer to track your route, then you may find that this app, for example, meets your needs:
Trails · Outdoor GPS Logbook on the App Store
- "Apple Watch models with GPS also support standalone recordings without a connected phone."
- "Record all your outdoor activities be it hiking, jogging, cycling, canoeing or skiing down the Alps."
- "The watch-recorded tracks will sync to your phone once both devices are connected again."
To browse and search for this and other third-party apps with the results pre-filtered to include only those iPhone apps that also include an app for Apple Watch, use the Watch app on your iPhone. Apps can be searched by keyword or app name via the Search tab:
Use apps on your Apple Watch - Apple Support
Built-in Workout app
The built-in Workout app on Apple Watch does not include "skiing" as a main activity type, but workouts for activities that are not included within the main activity types can still be named using a wide choice of labelling options.
For workouts that are neither included within nor sufficiently similar to the main activity types, record your workout by selecting "Other" as the activity type.
Upon ending the workout, tap on the option to Name Workout. Available labels include Cross-country skiiing.
"Other" workouts that have previously been named will become available to repeat within the Workout app, complete with their previously selected naming label.
However, neither distance nor a route map are recorded for outdoor workouts under this workout activity type.
If you would like to submit a feature request to Apple, then you can do so here:
Feedback - Apple Watch - Apple
More information:
When recording a workout via the Workout app, choosing the activity type that most closely matches your workout enables Apple Watch to use the most appropriate sensors and data sources when estimating the results, including using tailored calorie calculations for preset activity types.
For activities that are not included within the list or that are not sufficiently similar - including, for example, skiing - record your workout under "Other".
This credits one minute of Exercise for each full minute of the workout. Active calories for Other workouts are estimated at a rate equivalent to a brisk walk or based on data recorded by the heart rate sensor, whichever is higher.
Note that tracking can be affected during a workout if your watch loses contact with your skin. Better contact with your skin may also improve heart rate sensor performance during your workout. Apple suggests that you consider tightening your band before workouts and loosening it again afterwards.
For any activities that involve flexing your wrists, it may also help to move your watch a little higher up your arm, away from the flexing joint. Also keep in mind that the heart rate sensor is likely to give better results for workouts that involve rhythmic (eg running) rather than irregular movements.
More information:
Work out with your Apple Watch - Apple Support
About workout types
