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Peloton to Transition Apple Watch Users to Peloton One-Tap Tracking
In an email sent to users, Peloton has announced that it will start transitioning Apple Watch users from GymKit to Peloton One-Tap tracking starting February 27th. This move comes after GymKit integration, once marketed as an exclusive perk, has lost its appeal over recent years.[1][2]
The Shift from GymKit Integration
Peloton initially introduced GymKit integration as a premium feature exclusive to its more expensive Bike Plus model. However, the company launched an Apple Watch integration in 2022, bringing Apple Watch calorie and heart-rate tracking to any Peloton machine, similar to other fitness apps.[2]
As a result, users who connected their Peloton to an Apple Watch more recently may not even notice the transition from GymKit to Peloton One-Tap tracking. Peloton has been directing users to utilize GymKit only if they haven’t installed the latest software updates on their machines.[3]
The Continued Integration
While GymKit integration is being phased out, Peloton’s app still integrates workout data, and Apple Watch users can track distance, pace, and heart rate metrics on screen. Peloton is not using Apple’s proprietary fitness equipment API, though, so users should not expect significant changes if they have the latest updates installed. Nevertheless, users who purchased the more expensive Bike Plus for GymKit integration may feel disappointed with this change.[4]
Calorie Burn and Apple Watch
Metrics like calorie burn can vary widely based on the user and type of exercise, so changes to the accuracy of the data provided may not be significant. Apple Watch and other wearables provide educated guesses at best, even when users input weight, gender, activity level, and other variables affecting calorie burn.[5]
Despite this transition, users who enjoy tracking their workouts and accessing aggregated health data on Apple’s Health app will now have to rely on Peloton’s app as the only way to do so.[6]
Stay tuned for more updates on Peloton’s latest features and developments!
