Why doesn’t my exercise ring close when I walk?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

There could be a few reasons why your exercise ring doesn’t close when you walk. Here are some possible explanations:

1. Intensity of the walk: As mentioned in the Health app, only movement equal to or exceeding the intensity of a brisk walk counts towards your exercise minutes. If you’re walking at a slower pace, it may not be considered vigorous enough to contribute to your exercise ring. To close the ring, you may need to increase your walking speed or incorporate more intense activities into your routine.

2. Inaccurate tracking: Sometimes, the tracking feature on the Health app may not be completely accurate. It relies on the motion sensor and algorithms to detect movement, so there can be occasional discrepancies. If you believe that you are walking at a brisk pace but the ring is still not closing, it could be a tracking issue. Consider trying different walking routes or using a fitness tracker to cross-reference your steps.

3. Inconsistent movement: To close the exercise ring, you need to engage in continuous movement for at least a minute. If you frequently pause or stop during your walk, the app may not register it as exercise. Try to maintain a steady pace without interruptions to ensure that your movement is being properly tracked.

4. Other factors: The Health app considers various factors when calculating exercise minutes, such as heart rate and intensity of movement. If you have a low resting heart rate or if your walk doesn’t elevate your heart rate significantly, the app may not recognize it as exercise. Additionally, if you have any health conditions that affect your heart rate or movement, it could impact the app’s ability to accurately track your exercise.

If your exercise ring isn’t closing when you walk, it may be due to factors such as the intensity of your walk, inaccurate tracking, inconsistent movement, or other individual factors. It’s important to understand how the app calculates exercise minutes and make adjustments to your routine accordingly. If you have concerns about the accuracy of the tracking, consulting with a healthcare professional or using alternative fitness tracking devices may provide additional insights.