Swimming with Apple Watch Series 3: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction
Swimming has always been a popular exercise for improving cardiovascular health and building strength. With advancements in technology, it's now possible to enhance the swimming experience using smartwatches. Among these, the Apple Watch Series 3 stands out as a capable companion for swimmers. This guide explores the features of the Apple Watch Series 3 that are particularly beneficial for swimming, how to use it effectively, and what to expect from this smartwatch in the pool.

1. Overview of the Apple Watch Series 3
The Apple Watch Series 3, released in September 2017, is a significant step forward from its predecessors, with notable improvements in performance and features. It is equipped with a dual-core processor, a barometric altimeter, and water resistance up to 50 meters. This makes it a viable option for swimming enthusiasts looking for a reliable smartwatch.

2. Water Resistance and Durability
The Apple Watch Series 3 boasts water resistance up to 50 meters, which means it can handle swimming, showering, and even diving. This water resistance is achieved through its carefully engineered design, including a tightly sealed case and a water-resistant speaker. However, it’s important to note that while the watch can withstand immersion in water, prolonged exposure to chlorine or saltwater can potentially damage the device over time.

3. Swimming Metrics and Tracking
One of the standout features of the Apple Watch Series 3 is its ability to track various swimming metrics. These include:

• Distance Swum: The watch accurately measures the distance you swim during your workout, whether in a pool or open water.
• Lap Count: It automatically counts the number of laps completed, which is particularly useful for structured training sessions.
• Stroke Count: The watch can differentiate between different swimming strokes and count each stroke accurately.
• Average Pace: It provides an average pace per lap or per distance, helping swimmers monitor their performance and improve their efficiency.
• Calories Burned: The watch estimates the number of calories burned during the swim, which can be useful for those tracking their fitness goals.

4. Swimming Workouts and Customization
The Apple Watch Series 3 offers several pre-set swimming workouts, including options for pool and open water swimming. Users can customize these workouts to fit their training needs. For instance, you can set goals for distance, time, or calorie burn. Additionally, the watch provides real-time feedback during your workout, allowing you to adjust your pace or technique as needed.

5. The Swimming Experience: How to Use the Apple Watch Series 3
To get the most out of your Apple Watch Series 3 while swimming, follow these tips:

• Preparation: Ensure the watch is properly secured on your wrist and that the water lock feature is activated. This prevents accidental screen touches while swimming.
• Starting a Swim Workout: Open the Workout app on the watch and select the appropriate swimming workout. If you’re swimming in a pool, choose the Pool Swim option; for open water, select Open Water Swim.
• Monitoring Metrics: During your swim, glance at your watch to check metrics such as lap count and distance. The watch will also provide haptic feedback when you complete a lap.
• Post-Swim Analysis: After your workout, sync your watch with the Health app on your iPhone to review detailed statistics, including heart rate, pace, and calories burned.

6. Battery Life and Performance
The battery life of the Apple Watch Series 3 can last up to 18 hours on a single charge, which is generally sufficient for multiple swim workouts. However, extensive use of GPS in open water swimming can drain the battery faster. It’s advisable to charge your watch regularly and be mindful of battery levels during long swim sessions.

7. Comparing with Other Swim-Friendly Smartwatches
While the Apple Watch Series 3 is a strong contender for swim tracking, there are other smartwatches designed specifically for swimming that offer additional features. For example, devices like the Garmin Swim 2 or the Fitbit Versa 3 provide enhanced swim metrics and longer battery life for dedicated swimmers. However, the Apple Watch Series 3 remains a versatile option due to its integration with the broader Apple ecosystem and its overall functionality.

8. Maintenance and Care
To ensure the longevity of your Apple Watch Series 3, follow these maintenance tips:

• Rinse After Swimming: After swimming in a pool or saltwater, rinse the watch with fresh water to remove any chlorine or salt residues.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean the watch and its band regularly to prevent buildup of sweat and grime.
• Avoid Extreme Conditions: Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperatures or prolonged submersion in water.

9. Conclusion
The Apple Watch Series 3 offers a range of features that make it a valuable tool for swimmers. Its ability to track various metrics, coupled with its water resistance, makes it a practical choice for both casual and serious swimmers. While it may not have all the advanced features of newer swim-focused devices, it provides a solid performance and integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem. By following proper usage and care guidelines, swimmers can enjoy accurate tracking and valuable insights into their workouts.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use the Apple Watch Series 3 for swimming in the ocean?
  Yes, the Apple Watch Series 3 is suitable for swimming in open water, including the ocean. Just be sure to rinse it with fresh water after exposure to saltwater.

• How accurate is the lap count feature?
  The lap count feature is generally accurate, but it’s a good idea to verify it against manual counts during initial workouts to ensure calibration.

• What should I do if my Apple Watch Series 3 stops working after swimming?
  If your watch shows any issues after swimming, try resetting it and checking for software updates. If problems persist, contact Apple Support for further assistance.

11. Additional Resources
For more information on using the Apple Watch Series 3 for swimming, visit the Apple Support website or consult online forums and communities dedicated to Apple Watch users.