How to Use Apple Watch for Swimming

Complete guide to swimming with Apple Watch. Set up Water Lock, track workouts, and protect your device while swimming in pools or open water.

1. Enable Water Lock before entering water. Swipe up from the watch face to open Control Center. Tap the Water Lock icon (water droplet symbol). The screen will show a blue water droplet and become unresponsive to touch. Your Apple Watch will also play a sound to clear any water from the speaker.
2. Start a swimming workout. Press the Digital Crown to access your apps, then open the Workout app. Scroll to find either 'Pool Swim' for lap swimming or 'Open Water Swim' for swimming in lakes, oceans, or rivers. Tap your preferred workout type to begin tracking.
3. Set your pool length for accurate tracking. If using Pool Swim mode, tap the pool length display to adjust the distance. Common options include 25 yards, 25 meters, or 50 meters. Use the Digital Crown to scroll through options or tap 'Custom' to enter a specific length. Tap 'Start' to begin your workout.
4. Monitor your workout metrics while swimming. During your swim, Apple Watch tracks distance, pace, stroke count, and calories burned. The display shows key metrics automatically, rotating through different screens. Press the Digital Crown and side button simultaneously to pause or end your workout.
5. Exit Water Lock when finished swimming. Turn the Digital Crown continuously in either direction until the screen shows 'Unlocked.' The watch will play a series of tones and vibrations to eject water from the speaker. Wipe the watch dry with a clean, lint-free cloth.
6. Clean your Apple Watch after swimming. Rinse your Apple Watch with fresh water, especially after swimming in chlorinated or salt water. Remove any soap, lotion, or debris from the device and band. Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth and allow to air dry completely before charging.