Aerobic fitness notifications available on Apple Watch

With iOS 14.3 and watchOS 7.2, Apple Watch users can see their aerobic fitness level in the Health app on iPhone and get notified on Apple Watch if it drops too much. This innovative technology included in watchOS 7 allows Apple Watch to easily measure aerobic capacity level, and notifications allow users to be more active and achieve a noticeable improvement in their long-term health.

The level of aerobic capacity, measured as VO₂ max, is the maximum oxygen transport that our body can transport in one minute (source) and can be increased with physical activity. The Apple Watch already stimulates the average and increased levels of VO₂ max during the walks, runs or bike rides that so many athletes take to monitor their performance.

Now with watchOS 7, Apple Watch uses its multiple sensors, including the optical heart rate sensor, GPS, and accelerometer, to estimate even low levels. This is significant because direct measurement of VO₂ max normally requires rigorous clinical testing with specialized equipment that is not available to most people. watchOS 7 also allows the Apple Watch to take aerobic fitness measurements as users walk throughout the day, whether they are logging an activity or not. With this innovation, Apple Watch can better measure VO₂ max in low aerobic users who cannot complete high-intensity exercise.

The release of iOS 14.3 and watchOS 7.2 allows Apple Watch users to visit the Cardio Fitness category in the Health app on iPhone to check if their aerobic fitness level is rated High, Above Average, Below Average. the same age group and gender, according to data from the Fitness Registry and Importance of Exercise National Database (FRIEND). They can also see how aerobic capacity levels have changed over the past week, month, or year. If a user's level drops to low, they can get a notification on their Apple Watch, along with directions on how to improve it over time and recommend that they speak to their doctor.

Apple Watch users can use the Health app on iPhone to set aerobic fitness levels and enable notifications.