Apple Watch Series 4: Performance and Safety in the Swimming Pool

The Apple Watch Series 4 has been widely recognized for its advanced features, including fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, and GPS capabilities. One of the most notable features of this smartwatch is its ability to function in water, making it a popular choice for swimmers. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of how the Apple Watch Series 4 performs in the swimming pool, its water resistance capabilities, the benefits it offers to swimmers, and some precautions users should take to ensure the longevity of their device.

Water Resistance of the Apple Watch Series 4

The Apple Watch Series 4 is water-resistant up to 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This means that the watch can be used for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or the ocean. However, it is not recommended for scuba diving, water skiing, or other activities involving high-velocity water or submersion below shallow depth.

The water resistance is made possible by several design elements, including a sealed enclosure and an internal pressure sensor that detects changes in water pressure. The watch also features a unique mechanism known as the Water Lock, which, when activated, locks the screen to prevent accidental taps and ejects water from the speaker when turned off.

Swimming Features and Tracking

For swimmers, the Apple Watch Series 4 offers robust tracking capabilities. The device is capable of recording a variety of swim metrics, including:

• Total Swim Distance: The watch uses GPS and accelerometers to accurately measure the distance swum.
• Swim Strokes: It can detect and differentiate between different types of strokes such as freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, and butterfly.
• Lap Count: By analyzing wrist movements and accelerometer data, the watch can keep a count of laps in a pool.
• Average Pace: It calculates the swimmer's average pace per 100 meters or yards.
• Calories Burned: Based on the swimmer's weight, the duration of the swim, and the intensity, the watch provides an estimate of calories burned.

These features are accessible through the Workout app, which allows users to set swim-specific goals and view their progress in real-time. Post-swim, the data can be reviewed on the Apple Watch or synced to an iPhone for more detailed analysis.

Benefits for Swimmers

The Apple Watch Series 4 offers several benefits for both recreational and competitive swimmers:

1. Improved Training: By providing accurate data on swim metrics, swimmers can analyze their performance, identify areas for improvement, and tailor their training programs accordingly.

2. Motivation: The ability to set goals and track progress provides motivation to improve performance over time.

3. Health Monitoring: The heart rate monitor, though not as effective underwater as on land, still provides some data on exertion levels. Additionally, the Apple Watch alerts users if their heart rate is abnormally high or low during rest, which can be a valuable feature for those with heart conditions.

4. Convenience: Unlike traditional waterproof watches, the Apple Watch Series 4 offers a wide range of functions beyond timekeeping, such as music playback, notifications, and GPS, which can all be used while swimming.

Precautions When Using the Apple Watch Series 4 in the Pool

While the Apple Watch Series 4 is designed to be water-resistant, users should take certain precautions to maintain its functionality:

• Avoid High-Velocity Water: Activities such as water skiing, wakeboarding, or diving from significant heights can expose the watch to pressures that exceed its water resistance rating.

• Rinse After Use: After swimming in a pool, especially a chlorinated one, it’s advisable to rinse the watch with fresh water. This helps remove any chlorine or salt that could corrode or damage the watch over time.

• Check for Damage: Before swimming, inspect the watch for any signs of damage to the case or screen, which could compromise its water resistance.

• Avoid Chemical Exposure: Do not expose the Apple Watch to substances like soap, detergent, acids, or acidic foods. This includes not wearing the watch in the shower or sauna.

• Regular Maintenance: Over time, the water resistance of any watch can degrade. Apple recommends having the water resistance checked periodically, especially if the watch is frequently used in water.

Comparative Analysis with Other Models

While the Apple Watch Series 4 provides significant capabilities for swimming, it is not the only option on the market. Other smartwatches and fitness trackers also offer water resistance and swimming metrics, but they vary in features, accuracy, and price.

For instance, the Garmin Swim 2 is specifically designed for swimmers, with features like open-water swim mode and more detailed stroke analysis. The Fitbit Versa 3, on the other hand, offers water resistance and basic swim tracking but does not provide as detailed metrics as the Apple Watch.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 4 is a versatile smartwatch that caters well to swimmers with its water resistance, comprehensive swim tracking features, and additional functionalities. However, users must take care of their device and follow guidelines to ensure it remains in good working condition. By doing so, they can enjoy the full range of features the watch offers, both in and out of the pool. Whether you are a casual swimmer or a competitive athlete, the Apple Watch Series 4 can be a valuable companion for monitoring performance and staying motivated.