With the latest iOS and watchOS updates, Apple finally unlocked this “killer feature” for fitness enthusiasts.
You can now create complex, custom workouts directly on your iPhone and push them to your Watch for free.
No more fiddling with the small screen on your wrist, here is a quick guide to programming your perfect run from your phone.
Step 1: Start in the Fitness App Most people try to build workouts on the Watch, but the iPhone is where the real power lives.
Open the Fitness App on your iPhone.
Head to the Workout section at the bottom of the screen.
Tap the Stopwatch icon next to your preferred activity (I’ll use Running as our example).
Step 2: Choose Your Goal Apple now gives you several ways to “program” your effort depending on your goals.
You’ll see options for Calories, Distance, Time, and Pacer.
Pacer: Perfect if you have a specific time goal for a specific distance.
Custom: This is the “pro” option for interval training.
Settings: Don’t forget to check the icons below for your music and “Workout Buddy” preferences.
Step 3: Build Your Custom Interval The Custom tool allows you to build a sophisticated training block in seconds.
Scroll down and tap the Green Plus Sign (+) to create a new workout.
Select Custom to unlock the interval builder.
Step 4: Sync and Go Once you’ve saved the workout on your phone, it’s automatically waiting for you on your wrist.
Head over to your Apple Watch and select your activity (e.g., Outdoor Run). Tap that same Stopwatch button in the upper right, select your new Custom workout, and you’re ready to hit the pavement!