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If you’ve recently noticed a decline in the accuracy of how your Apple Watch tracks your steps and workouts, a calibration might be necessary. You should routinely configure your Apple Watch’s sensors according to your body’s vital metrics—here’s how.
1. Perform Test Runs With Your Apple Watch
First, it’s wise to do some trials on your sensors. Open the Workout app on your Apple Watch, selectOutdoor Run, and then jog at a steady pace for 20-30 minutes.
Afterward, compare the results with those you recorded months ago. Launch theFitnessapp on your iPhone, open theActivitysection, tap theCalendaricon in the top-right corner, and select a reference date. This will give you an idea of how much the tracking has changed over time.
2. Enable Location Services
Ensure that your GPS location services are always running. Otherwise, your Apple Watch will have trouble monitoring middle- to long-distance sports like running, hiking, or swimming. OpenSettingson your Apple Watch, head toPrivacy & Security > Location Services, and make sure it’s toggled on.
Additionally, on your iPhone, go toSettings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. Scroll down toSystem Servicesand in this menu, make sureMotion Calibration & Distanceis enabled.
3. Adjust Your Fitness Profile
Your size and basal metabolic rate directly impact the calories you burn while working out. Let’s say you’re a marathoner who recently lost 50 lbs. If you still use your old weight on your fitness profile, you’ll get inaccurate results whentracking runs using your Apple Watch. It’ll think you’re burning more calories than you really are.
To adjust your profile, open theWatchapp on your iPhone, select theMy Watchtab, and head toHealth>Health Details. Then, tapEditin the top-right corner and input your correct weight and height. If you’re training for body composition, ensure you adjust these metrics at least every two to four weeks.
4. Keep the Sensors Clear of Dirt and Excess Water
The Apple Watch iswater-resistant, not waterproof. It isn’t easily damaged by sweat or rainwater—you may even perform exercises in shallow water with some models. However, it can’t withstand submersion—unless you have an Apple Watch Ultra. If you try diving with your standard Apple Watch, its sensors will likely get damaged and stop working altogether.
That said, you also shouldn’t let dirt and sweat accumulate on your Apple Watch. Regularly remove buildup on the backing with a clean cotton ball and a few drops of rubbing alcohol; otherwise, this debris might affect your accelerometer, gyroscope, and heart rate sensors.
5. Use the Right Activity Tracker
you may add different activities in the Workout app, including cycling, mixed martial arts, tennis, and surfing, among other options. Open theWorkoutapp on your Apple Watch, scroll down toAdd Workout, and tap your preferred activity. Your sensors should adjust accordingly.
However, the app works best on default exercises, like jogging, walking, and swimming. You might notice some inaccuracies when monitoring activities that consist of explosive, inconsistent movements.
The best workaround is to use third-party trackers designed for your specific sport. Let’s say you’re into bodybuilding. Instead of the default Workout app, you could usestrength training apps for your Apple Watch, likeStrongandGymaholic.
6. Reset Your Fitness Calibration Data
If you still aren’t happy with your wearable’s accuracy, try resetting the fitness calibration data on your Apple Watch. It’s a great option if other people have used your device to track their steps, run duration, and workout intensity. You’ll get more accurate results if your device exclusively contains your metrics.
Open theWatchapp on your iPhone and tapPrivacy > Reset Fitness Calibration Data. Afterward, go on a 30-minute, steady-paced jog on flat terrain—this gives your Apple Watch a more precise measurement of your fitness level.
As long as you use your Apple Watch daily and keep your body measurements updated, its sensors should stay calibrated. They won’t quickly degrade like other components losing functionality or wearing out—at worst, they’ll produce inaccurate readings.
