How to Add a Workout on Apple Watch

How to Start a Workout on Apple Watch

To start a workout on Apple Watch, pick it in the Workout app:

1. Open the Workout app on your Apple Watch.
2. Turn the Digital Crown to the workout you want to do.
3. To see every workout type, scroll down and tap the Add button at the bottom of the list.
4. When you're ready, tap the Play button.

Tapping the center of the screen also starts the workout quickly, and on Apple Watch Ultra models the Action button can start one. With Siri, say something like "Start a 30-minute outdoor run."

Add a Workout Type That Isn't Listed

For an activity that isn't in your list, tap Add Workout and choose the type that best matches what you're doing. If nothing matches, choose Other, which Apple offers for exactly that case. The list reorders itself over time: as you use the app, the order of workouts reflects your preferences.

How to Pause, Add Another or End a Workout

During a workout, swipe right to reach the controls:

1. Pause: tap Pause. You can also press the side button and the Digital Crown at the same time, at any point.
2. Add another: tap New, tap a workout type, then tap Quick Start or pick a custom workout.
3. End: tap End, turn the Digital Crown to rate your effort and view the summary, then tap the End button at the top.

To get a confirmation before a workout ends, turn on End Workout Confirmation in Settings, then Workout.

Why Your Apple Watch Keeps Pausing Workouts

Check these three causes, starting with the setting that pauses workouts on purpose:

1. Auto-Pause is on. Apple Watch "automatically pauses and resumes your outdoor running and cycling workouts", for example when you stop to cross the street or get a drink of water. To turn it off, open Settings, tap Workout, then tap Auto-Pause.
2. The pause shortcut was pressed. Pressing the side button and the Digital Crown together pauses a workout, so check that a sleeve cuff or glove isn't pushing on both buttons.
3. Accidental taps. If your exercise or gear causes accidental taps, press the side button to open Control Center and tap the Water Lock button so the workout isn't interrupted.

If a workout is paused, the Resume Workout reminder prompts you to resume; workout reminders are on by default.

Where to See Your Workouts

Finished workouts show up on both devices. On the watch, open the Activity app, scroll to the bottom of the screen and tap a workout to review it. On iPhone, open the Fitness app, tap Summary, then tap the Sessions area to see your workout history and each session's details.

Wear It the Way Apple Recommends

Apple's fit test: shake your wrist, then turn your palm face up. If the back of the watch loses contact with your skin, tighten the band. Apple says the sensors work only when the watch sits on the top of your wrist, and it describes the right fit as snug but comfortable.

Which Workouts Apple Watch Tracks

Apple's list of workout types runs to 76 entries, from Archery to Yoga (our count of its page on September 27, 2026). It includes Swimming (Pool/Open Water) and Wheelchair (Outdoor Walking Pace/Outdoor Running Pace). If you told the watch you use a wheelchair, Apple's Workout guide adds that outdoor push workouts track pushes instead of steps. The full list is on Apple's Workout types on Apple Watch page.