Apple Watch - Apple Fitness Vs WorkOutdoors App - Initial Impressions
- Leo
- Jul 10, 2024
- 3 min read
So, a few days in to my fitness revival and i am mixing up my Football, Running, and HIIT activities, i even dropped a couple of short swims in just to get some stats back into my Fitness App.
In short, this reminded me of what i initially found frustrating with the Apple Watch (excluding the battery life) which is the limited amount of data and screens within the default Fitness App. OK, for the average user, which i probably am, the Fitness App should provide more than enough data for your general exercise activities, but i'm on a mission, so i feel like i need more, more customisability, more data, more insight, i just feel like i need it, so i need it. In any case, this lead me to look at what else was available, and whilst researching and reading article upon article and reddit post upon reddit post, i was being face with the same answer: WorkOutdoors. So here is my initial impressions of Apple Fitness Vs WorkOutdoors App.
So, i installed the app, spent a couple of hours messing around to get familiar (not that this is a requirement to use it, but..) and have been using it for a few days to see how usable and valuable this info i craved actually is in real life.
I will be looking at adding a full on review of the app after a few months of life with it, once i have added multiple activities and properly come to grips with all the app has to offer!
In short, this is the app that apple should be giving you out of the box. The End.
The longer version is below, enjoy :D
Easy Customisation
One of the best things about WorkoutDoors is how much you can customise it. You can set up your workout screens to show exactly the information you want, like pace, heart rate, distance, and more. Plus, you can have different screens for running, cycling, hiking, and other activities.Whilst the Apple Fitness app does a good job covering the basics, but it doesn't offer as many customisation options.

Awesome Mapping and Navigation
WorkoutDoors shines with its detailed, interactive maps that you can use offline. This is perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking or trail running, letting you see the terrain and navigate without needing your phone. Unfortunately, the Apple Fitness app doesn't include these mapping features, which can be a downside if you want to explore new routes without your phone.

Real-Time Data and Metrics
With WorkoutDoors, you get real-time data on a wide range of metrics. You can monitor your heart rate zones, elevation, cadence, and even power if you have compatible sensors, all while you exercise. The Apple Fitness app provides essential data like heart rate, calories, and distance, but it doesn't go as in-depth as WorkoutDoors. For those who love tracking every detail, WorkoutDoors is a winner.

Offline Use
WorkoutDoors allows you to download maps and access workout data without needing an internet connection. This is a game-changer for activities in remote areas where you might not have cell service. The Apple Fitness app doesn't support offline maps, limiting its use in no-signal zones.
Seamless Integration
WorkoutDoors syncs perfectly with Apple Health, so all your workout data is in one place. It also supports various external sensors, like heart rate monitors and cycling power meters, making it a great all-around fitness tool. You can also directly update your Strava post Exercise also with an additional touch of a button. While the Apple Fitness app also syncs with Apple Health, it doesn't connect with as many external devices, which might be a drawback if you use additional fitness gear.
Great User Experience
Users love WorkoutDoors for its reliability and performance. The app runs smoothly, providing quick access to detailed metrics and maps without draining your watch's battery too much. The Apple Fitness app is also smooth and easy to use, but it doesn't handle the extensive data fields and detailed maps as efficiently as WorkoutDoors.
Final Thoughts
WorkoutDoors is a fantastic app for anyone serious about their fitness tracking. Its detailed maps, customisation options, and comprehensive real-time data make it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes.
The Apple Watch is regularly looked over because of the lack of customisability, but this app pulls and utilises all of the data the apple watch accurately collects, and give syou exactly what YOU want to see.
Epic.
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