The Apple Watch is a very good running smartwatch. However, you can improve your experience, in particular, by avoiding unexpected events.
The Apple Watch is a good companion for runners, but there may be some limitations, especially when running long distances. Most runners have already received a low battery warning or realized there is no music on their ride because they forgot to sync their songs. You can avoid these worries and use a few tips to make sure everything goes well.
Download your music in advance
It takes some time to sync music to Apple Watch, so you should consider this aspect so that your favorite podcasts, audiobooks, and songs are well before you go for a run. Set yourself a reminder to remember to do this, for example, the day before a long walk. If you forget, you’ll be out on the street ready to go, you’ll have to wait for the sync to complete – or you’ll walk away with no music at all.
Update your measurements
The body changes over time. If you need accurate data, such as calories burned or other workout parameters, make sure your measurements are up to date. In the Health app, go to the Navigation tab and select Measurements. Click the Add Data button in the top right corner and enter your current weight. You should also consider customizing the statistics that Apple Watch displays while you run.
Calibrate your watch to improve GPS accuracy
Your Apple Watch’s GPS is pretty accurate when properly calibrated. As long as you go for a run or walk in areas with good GPS coverage, you’re fine. But if your watch’s distance measurement looks suspicious, you can try recalibrating the GPS for better results.
Hand swing while running
If you run with your hands tied, your Apple Watch may not measure your runs accurately. Instead of holding something in your hands while you run, consider using a small backpack or strap to free up your hands and allow the watch to accurately measure your pace, stride length and other information.
Take care of your battery
Not everyone has the luxury of buying an Apple Watch Ultra, but there are tricks to save battery life, no matter the model. These tips are especially helpful if you go for a run in the evening and haven’t been able to charge your watch during the day.
You can try power saving mode to extend your battery life. In addition, you can turn off cellular data and always-on screen to make sure you don’t go wrong while running. The Apple Watch also has an activity-tracking power-saving mode that turns off the heart rate monitor, but the watch continues to track what you’re doing.
Finally, you can also keep your iPhone with you while you run to conserve your Apple Watch battery. If there is an iPhone nearby, the watch delegates the most energy-intensive tasks to the phone. This way you will have less risk of being flat.