Apple has enhanced its Fitness app with three significant updates as part of the iOS 26 rollout, aimed at helping users achieve their health and fitness goals in 2024. Originally designed to complement the Apple Watch’s Activity rings, the Fitness app has expanded its functionalities, making it accessible even to those without the smartwatch. These updates are expected to support a broader range of users as they embark on new fitness journeys this year.
Expanded Access with New Features
One of the standout additions is the introduction of **Apple Fitness+** workout plans, which have been described as a “hidden gem” within the Apple One service bundle. The platform offers a variety of high-quality video workouts led by experienced trainers, catering to all fitness levels. With the recent update, users can now create Custom Plans to help establish new habits, a feature particularly useful for those setting new year’s resolutions. The inclusion of additional languages also broadens the app’s global appeal, allowing more users worldwide to engage with Fitness+. Access to Apple Fitness+ costs $9.99/month or is included in the Apple One subscription.
Manual Workout Logging Enhances User Experience
In another significant improvement, the Fitness app now supports manual workout logging, a feature that debuted with iOS 26.1. Previously, only workouts tracked via the Apple Watch could be saved to the app. This change addresses the needs of users who may not own an Apple Watch, as well as those who occasionally forget to log workouts on their devices. Users can now simply open the app’s Workout tab, select the pencil icon, and input details such as workout type, duration, effort, and active calories. This functionality ensures that all users can accurately update their Activity rings based on their physical activity.
The introduction of manual logging represents a shift towards inclusivity, allowing all iPhone users to benefit from the Fitness app’s capabilities.
Live Activities Feature Enhances Tracking
Additionally, the Fitness app has integrated Live Activities, enabling users to view real-time workout metrics directly from the Lock Screen and Dynamic Island on their devices. This feature, which debuted alongside the AirPods Pro 3, allows users to monitor details such as duration and workout type while exercising. Live Activities exemplify Apple’s commitment to making fitness tracking more accessible and user-friendly, moving away from a model that solely depended on the Apple Watch.
For those who use the Fitness app, this expansion not only enhances the tracking experience but also promotes a more engaged and informed approach to personal fitness.
As users set their health objectives for the new year, these updates to the Apple Fitness app provide valuable tools to support their journeys. Whether users are seasoned fitness enthusiasts or just starting, the enhancements position the app as a comprehensive resource for achieving fitness goals in 2024 and beyond.
