Here for the Apple Watch tips? Want to know how to get Apple Watch to count steps on treadmill? I’ve got you!
If you’re anything like me, you’re constantly juggling work, kids, and your personal goals. Fitness doesn’t happen by accident, it’s something that you have to prioritize! One of my go-to strategies is using my walking pad while working from home. It’s a fantastic way to get my steps in and maintain my health at the same time that I’m slaying it at work. Efficient, multi-tasking health approaches are everything when time is your most limited resource.
The issue of tracking your walking pad mileage with your Apple Watch
I love to track my walking pad mileage and work towards a monthly goal to keep me motivated to maintain the habit. I have manual Google Sheets tracker and I lean on my Apple Watch for each of my sessions (download the mileage tracker for free if you want to use it!) But here’s the thing – sometimes, my Apple Watch doesn’t accurately track my steps on the walking pad, especially when my hands are on my desk or I’m typing. It’s similar to when you’re pushing a stroller and notice your steps aren’t being counted correctly — moms will know! Tracking your steps and working towards a daily goal can be incredibly motivating, and an Apple Watch is a great tool for this. So, it’s really frustrating when your steps aren’t captured accurately.
Let’s troubleshoot that and talk through the options to make sure your Apple Watch is accurately tracking your steps! We’ll cover:
- Troubleshooting and making adjustments to your Apple Watch
- Other apps to consider for accurate tracking
- Accessories to ensure accurate tracking
Troubleshooting and making adjustments to your Apple Watch
First, let’s dive into some troubleshooting tips and adjustments you can make to your Apple Watch to improve its step tracking accuracy.
1. Select the right workout
When you start your treadmill session, make sure you choose the right workout type on your Apple Watch.
- Open the Workout app on your Apple Watch
- Scroll down and select “Indoor Walk” for walking on the treadmill or “Indoor Run” if you’re running
This ensures that your watch understands you’re not walking or running outdoors, so it will adjust its tracking accordingly.
2. Calibrate your Apple Watch
Calibrating your Apple Watch helps improve its accuracy for tracking steps and distance. Here’s how you can do it:
- Go for a 20-minute walk or run outside with your iPhone
- Make sure you have a good GPS signal and keep your iPhone with you
Doing this will help your watch learn your stride length, which can improve step counting even when you’re on the treadmill.
3. Check your settings
Make sure your Apple Watch is set to track your movement accurately.
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone
- Tap on “Privacy” and ensure that “Fitness Tracking” is enabled
- Go to “Health” and update your personal details like height and weight, as these factors can affect how your steps and distance are calculated
4. Wear your watch snugly
A loose watch can cause inaccuracies in tracking. Make sure your Apple Watch is snug but comfortable on your wrist. The sensors on the back of the watch need to be in constant contact with your skin to accurately measure your activity.
5. Manual adjustments
If you notice that your Apple Watch isn’t counting steps accurately after trying these tips, you can manually add your workout.
- Open the Health app on your iPhone
- Tap on “Browse,” then “Activity”
- Select “Workouts” and tap the “+” button to add your treadmill workout manually
You can input the time, distance, and calories burned based on the treadmill’s display.
Other apps to consider for accurate tracking
Sometimes, the built-in features of the Apple Watch might not cut it, and that’s where third-party apps come in. Apps like Strava can offer more detailed tracking and often sync with your Apple Watch. Here’s a quick rundown:
Strava
- Pros: Provides detailed tracking, offers social features for motivation, and can sync with various devices
- Cons: Requires a subscription for premium features, and the interface can be a bit complex for beginners
I also maintain a manual Google Sheet tracker that you can download for free. It’s a simple way to keep a detailed log of your workouts and steps.
How to get Apple Watch to count steps on treadmill with additional accessories
Another solution I’ve found success with is using accessories like an ankle band. Here’s why it works:
Ankle band
- Pros: Ensures your watch accurately tracks your leg movements, ideal for when your hands are stationary
- Cons: It might feel a bit odd at first, and you need to ensure the band is snug but comfortable
This has been the solution that I’ve found the most success with, especially when I’m walking on my treadmill and working at my desk.
Master how to get Apple Watch to count steps on treadmill for ultimate steps motivation
Getting your steps in every day is a fantastic way to stay healthy and energized, especially as a busy mom. Finding a solution to accurately track your steps can motivate you to keep going, encourage friendly competition with others, and spark extra excitement about reaching your fitness goals.
Stay active, keep walking, and remember – every step counts toward a healthier you!
Do you have any tips or tricks for getting the most out of your Apple Watch or treadmill workouts? Share them in the comments below! Let’s help each other stay fit and fabulous.