Apple Watch SE 2: How to Set Up Custom Workout Routines

Apple Watch SE 2 goes beyond step counts and calories it gives you full control over your fitness with custom workout routines designed around your specific goals.

If you haven’t already explored all features of your Watch, check our full Apple Watch SE 2 Ultimate Review & Guide (2025) to unlock its complete potential.

What Are Custom Workouts on Apple Watch?

Custom workouts allow you to:

• Tailor goals like time, calories, or distance.
• Add structured segments (e.g., warm-up, sprint, cooldown).
• Create HIIT, yoga, strength, or interval routines.
• Use haptics and voice cues to guide your progress.

It’s perfect for users with advanced fitness routines or those looking to structure their workouts better.

Step-by-Step: Create a Custom Workout

1. Open the Workout app on your Watch.
2. Scroll to bottom and tap Add Workout.
3. Select an activity like Outdoor Run, Strength Training, or HIIT.
4. Scroll down > Tap Create Workout or Custom.
5. Choose your Goal Type – Calories, Time, Distance, or Open.
6. Tap Add Segment to define intervals, rest periods, or supersets.
7. Name your workout and tap Done.

You can also customize directly from your iPhone using the Fitness app > Workout > Custom Workouts section.

Real-World Use Cases

• HIIT Enthusiasts: Alternate 30 sec sprint with 60 sec rest, repeated 8x.
• Strength Training: Set 3 sets of 12 reps with 60s rest in between.
• Cyclists or Runners: Build endurance by targeting distance or heart rate zones.

Expert Tips for Better Results

• Use Haptic Feedback to stay on rhythm without looking at screen.
• Combine Custom Workouts with Activity Rings to boost motivation.
• Try Voice Cues for segment transitions while using Bluetooth headphones.
• Track workout trends in the Fitness app weekly for performance insights.

Statistics You Can Track

• Avg Heart Rate per segment
• Pace, Distance, and Elevation (for outdoor workouts)
• Time in Heart Rate Zones (for HIIT or cardio)
• Workout streaks and achievements

Testimonial: “Custom workouts have changed the game for me. I set a 6-week progressive plan for strength training, and the Watch kept me accountable like a coach on my wrist.”
— Ravi M., Fitness Trainer, Hyderabad

FAQs

Can I delete a custom workout?
Yes. Swipe left on the custom routine in your Workout app and tap Delete.

Can I set heart rate zone goals?
Not directly, but you can view time spent in zones post-workout in the Fitness app.

Do custom workouts sync with iPhone?
Yes. All changes and performance data sync instantly via iCloud.

Can I create multiple variations for the same activity?
Yes! For example, make “HIIT – Short” and “HIIT – Long” separately.

Do custom workouts support 3rd-party apps like Nike Run Club?
Some apps have their own custom features but do not sync with Apple’s native Custom Workout structure.

Final Thought

The Custom Workout feature on Apple Watch SE 2 transforms your daily movement into intentional training. Whether you’re preparing for a marathon or committing to daily HIIT, this feature ensures your wearable supports your exact journey one set, rep, and step at a time.

More Apple Watch SE 2 Guides:

• Apple Watch SE 2 for Seniors: Accessibility and Health Features Explained
• Apple Watch SE 2 vs Apple Watch Ultra: Which Suits Your Needs Better?
• Apple Watch SE 2: Understanding VO2 Max and Fitness Levels
• Apple Watch SE 2: Advanced Tips for Calendar and Reminders
• Apple Watch SE 2 Navigation: Best GPS and Map Apps to Use