I love yoga. It’s great for stretching out tight hips and shoulders after a long day at the desk.

The breathing techniques are excellent for mental resets, the meditations help me focus on what’s important and the single-legged poses help me maintain my balance.

I also love upbeat playlists and fast-paced movement, which is why I enjoy yoga teacher Jonelle Lewis’s classes on Apple’s Fitness+ platform.

Lewis teaches traditional asanas but invites you to match her beat as she moves.

The classes still tap into moments of stillness when appropriate (and she also leads meditation classes on the platform) but there’s a buzziness to her sessions that I enjoy.

I was lucky enough to do a live class with Lewis recently and sat down with her afterward to pick her brains about yoga. I asked her for three poses that are her all-time favorites for beginners—here’s what she said.

Three yoga poses for beginners

1. Puppy pose

How to do it

• Come onto your hands and knees, with your arms straight, shoulders above your hands and hips above your knees.
• Keeping your hips directly above your knees, walk your hands forward as far as you can.
• Lower your forehead to the floor and relax.
• Hold for five breaths or longer.

Why Lewis recommends it

This stretch is very similar to child’s pose, but you keep your hips elevated.

"It's a spinal extension that helps to open up to your shoulders, open up your heart, and I think it's a good preparation for downward dog," says Lewis.

2. Downward dog

How to do it:

• Come onto your hands and knees, with your arms straight, shoulders above your hands and hips above your knees.
• Step your feet back one at a time so that you’re in a plank position, with your legs extended and your body in a straight line from head to heels.
• Push your hips up so your body forms an inverted V shape. You can keep a soft bend in your knees if you need to.
• Hold for five breaths or longer.

Why Lewis recommends it:

This is a staple in most yoga practices and it has full-body benefits.

"You're using shoulder strength and mobility, stretching out your back body, hamstrings and ankles—you’re getting this big full-body stretch," says Lewis.

3. Tree pose

How to do it:

• Stand with your hands held together at your chest.
• Transfer the weight of your body into your right foot.
• Bend your left knee and raise it to the side, resting your left foot on your shin or thigh—wherever it feels most comfortable.
• Hold for three breaths or longer, before switching sides.

Why Lewis recommends it:

This is a one-legged pose, so it will test your balance and strengthen the supportive muscles in your ankle.

"It seems deceptively simple but there's a lot going on," says Lewis. "You're balancing, you're opening up through your hips and you're engaging through your core."

You can practice these moves by themselves to reap their benefits or add them to some other yoga stretches for beginners for a longer flow. You can also access Jonelle's classes via the Apple Fitness plus platform, which currently has a 7-day free trial ($9.99 once trial has ended).

If you're looking for a top-rated pair of workout earbuds, then this Cyber Monday deal on Apple's AirPods Pro 2 is simply outstanding, and now at their cheapest ever price, they are bound to sell out.

Right now, at Amazon, there's an incredible discount of $95, which means you can grab the high-tech Apple AirPods Pro 2 for just $154, down 38% from its list price of $249. However, you'll have to be fast on this deal because Cyber Monday ends at midnight.

Resistant to sweat, water and dust, the AirPods Pro 2 earbuds are perfect for listening to music or your favorite podcast while exercising indoors or out. I'm an enthusiastic fan of the AirPods Pro 2 having purchased them earlier this year, and we've previously ranked them as best for Apple users in our guide to the best workout earbuds.

The AirPods deliver where it matters for any headphones—the sound quality. Apple's built-in H2 chip kills any distortion and I've been impressed by the listening experience. The Pro 2 delivers my music of choice with crisp, clear notes and a rich deep base.

The Noise Control features enhance this too and the Intelligent mode blocks out distracting outside sound and improves the sound of your music. Transparency mode enables you to stop noise cancellation and hear the world around you, and the Adaptive mode reduces music volume allowing you to converse easily without removing the AirPods from your ears.

You can switch listening modes, rewind or fast-forward and easily access Siri using the stem controls. There's also a handy find my earbuds option on your Apple device.

In my humble opinion, walking is one of the best forms of exercise. It’s low-impact, low-cost and always makes my mind and body feel better.

But my motivation to increase my step count wanes during fall when it’s dark and the temperatures drop. That’s where at-home walking workouts, like this 5,000-step 30-minute class from Eleni Fit, come in handy.

"Step walking workouts combine stepping to the beat with low-impact movements," says Carrie Baxter, coach at fitness app, WithU. "They’re super accessible, as you can do them from home and they’re suitable for beginners. Plus, it’s a really fun way to exercise—who doesn’t like working out to a beat?!".

Having racked up more than one million views, I wanted to see what all the fuss was about and to see if I could really do 5,000 steps in 30 minutes. So, here’s how to do Elen Fit's walking workout and everything I learned after completing it.

How to do Eleni Fit’s 5,000 step 30-minute walking workout

You might not hit 5,000 steps

Eager to see how many steps I could complete in 30 minutes, I wore my Apple watch during the workout. But after the class finished, I hadn’t hit the 5,000-step target. Instead, I’d clocked up 3,588 according to my watch.

"My guess is that you’re moving a little too slowly," Baxter suggests. "The instructor will be moving to a beat specifically calculated to achieve a set number of steps within each block of work, so if you’re finding two or three tracks within a workout a little too fast to keep up with, you may end up achieving a little under the official step count."

There's also—whisper it—the chance that my Apple Watch was wrong. Either way, I still enjoyed the session and it helped me get closer to my daily step count goal.

Step walking workouts will test your coordination

Step walking workouts require more coordination than just putting one foot in front of the other.

Instead of walking on the spot or stepping from side to side, the instructor challenges you to combine these movements with things like punches, standing crunches, squats, arm circles and shoulder rolls.

So not only did this aerobic session give me a full-body workout, but it also gave my brain a mental boost.

Walking can be fun

From improving joint health to boosting cardio, the benefits of walking are tenfold. But if the thought of venturing into the great outdoors doesn’t fill you with joy, at-home step-walking workouts are the next best thing.

The music was blasting, my heart rate was up and it felt like I was essentially dancing in my front room. Instead of focusing on the activity of working out, I was enjoying the feeling of moving my body.

If you have an Apple device and are looking for a high-performing pair of workout earbuds, Apple's Airpods Pro 2 are our top choice. We ranked them as best for Apple users in our guide to the best workout earbuds, and you can currently pick them up with a discount of $70 in this deal.

This deal price is not quite the lowest it's been this year when the Airpods Pro 2 dropped to $168.99 for Amazon Prime Day. However, this is still a worthy offer and the cheapest price we can find at the moment.

Our reviewer was highly impressed with the sound quality of the Airpods Pro 2 and their instant connection to Apple devices when removed from their charging case. He also praised them for their all-day comfort levels, while the noise canceling and awareness modes work really well too.

You don't have to worry about them fitting your ears, either. Should you find the Airpods come loose while running or during workouts, a pair of cheap third-party wing tips will solve that problem.

The Airpods Pro 2 have an IPX4 waterproof rating which means they are protected from splashes. While some models are rated to IP57, which means they can be submerged in 3ft of water for 30 minutes, this is overkill unless you are extremely unlucky.

You can switch listening modes, rewind or fast-forward, and access Siri easily by using the stem controls. There's also a handy find my earbuds option on your Apple device.

They are not recommended for Android owners though, the Jabra Elite 4 Active is our top choice if that's you.

I didn't think I'd start my year strutting through the country to a soundtrack of Justin Timberlake's SexyBack, but here we are. 

This came about after my editor asked me to try the Time To Walk feature on Apple Fitness+—a feature which, as of January 8, iPhone users can sample for free via the Podcasts app. 

The concept is simple: Famous folks go for a walk while recording a chat about their lives and playing a few of their favorite songs. You get to listen along at a later date while getting in some steps of your own.  

As someone who loves high-intensity exercise, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy this walking workout, but I actually got a lot out of my 39-minute stroll with Marvel star Simu Liu. Here's everything I noticed during my mini-hike. 

1. I covered a lot of ground

I'm a fast walker by nature, but I was still surprised at how high my step count was after the walk. I managed to rack up 4,500 steps in the short session. My phone also estimated that I'd climbed 10 floors and covered 3.5km.

My Whoop band let me know I'd raised my heart rate too, estimating my calorie burn at 297 (the Apple Fitness+ app went for a more conservative 160). 

I maintained this quick pace despite there being nothing to encourage me to move any faster, other than the sound of Liu's footsteps. 

2. It was genuinely interesting

When choosing a podcast, I like to find a topic I care about and listen to the experts. The Time to Walk feature doesn't offer you this luxury. Instead you have to scroll through a list of celebrities and hope you land on one who can hold your attention.

Luckily, Simu Liu has lived an incredibly interesting life. He was raised by his grandparents until he was four, when his parents returned to whisk him from China to Canada. He worked as an accountant before seeking out acting gigs on Craigslist, including a bizarre-sounding turn in Guillermo Del Toro's Pacific Rim, where he was asked to strip down to his boxers to be painted blue. 

Time flew by when I was listening to these anecdotes. I can't speak for the other Time To Walk episodes, but I would definitely give Liu's a listen if you get the chance.  

3. I checked my phone less

I don't usually do walking workouts, but I do have an energetic two-year old dog who needs regular exercise. I've noticed during our thrice-daily excursions that I often forget to look at my surroundings and start scrolling my phone.

Focusing on Simu Liu's talk meant that I didn't need a screen to entertain me. Instead, I took in my surroundings and listened to his story. By the end of the walk, my eyes and mind felt refreshed, and I felt re-energized.

I also enjoyed listening to the music selection that was thrown in at the end of the session; SexyBack by Justin Timberlake, Ghost by Justin Bieber and My Time by Fabolous. Simu provided a little background on why he selected them, before they were played in full, which was a nice way to round off the session. 

If you're in need of some suitable shoes to keep you comfortable on longer strolls, take a look at our editor-tested roundup of the best walking shoes. 

It's hard to compare the Sony WF-1000M4 vs Apple AirPods Pro; both sets are some of the best-sounding earbuds around. But these are high-end, feature-rich sets that do more than deliver good sound. But which should you pick up for your next workout?

While you could choose from any of the best workout earbuds, the sound quality is the crucial selling point of the Sony and Apple sets. Although there are audiophile-friendly alternatives, these find a difficult balance between price, features, and performance. 

Few are likely to find themselves disappointed by either. However, iPhone users should likely lean towards the AirPods Pro. The Sony WF-1000XM4 have the edge for Android users because of their longer battery life and tendency to be available at a lower price. 

But that broad generalization won't be right for everyone. So, to help you decide between these two high-quality sets of workout earbuds, we've compared the Sony WF-1000M4 vs Apple AirPods Pro across price, features, design, and sound quality. 

Sony WF-1000M4 vs Apple AirPods Pro: price and release date

Apple released the original AirPods Pro in September 2019, and an updated version in September 2022. This newer model significantly improved the sound quality and active noise cancellation (ANC). Although the second-generation set has plenty of improvements, you still pick up the original pair at a discounted price. 

Meanwhile, Sony released the WF-1000XM4 in June 2021. They are part of a range of some of the most celebrated true wireless earphones, which began in 2018. If you judge by the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP), the Sony pair is the most expensive.

The WF-1000XM4 retail for $279/£250, while the Apple AirPods Pro cost $249/£239. However, Apple rarely offers discounts on its products, so you're more likely to find a deal on the Sony set if you hunt around. Our on-page tech also automatically finds the best prices to save you time. 

Sony WF-1000M4 vs Apple AirPods Pro: design and fit

Both of these earbuds are known as in-ear monitors (IEMs). This means they use little silicone or foam tips that block your ear canal, unlike the classic "non-Pro" AirPods, which hang more loosely in your ear. It's also why we recommend the AirPods Pro over the AirPods for exercise. 

IEMs are the most practical earphones, as they block outside noise and don't leak sound. You won't annoy nearby folks on public transit with your music and are less likely to damage your hearing by putting up the volume to compete with the noise. 

However, the visual difference between the Sony WF-1000XM4 and AirPods Pro is immediately apparent. Apple earphones have a stalk that dips below your tragus (the harder part of your ear closest to your cheek), while the Sony pair adopts a more 'classic' earphones look. 

Apple uses classic silicone tips, and Sony uses more unusual polyurethane foam ones. The fit of these pairs largely depends on how well the three sizes of tips match the size of your ear canals. Foam tips typically offer a more secure fit, but they can get a little nasty after a while, whereas silicone tips will often last the lifespan of the earphones. 

Disappointingly, neither set has excellent water resistance, as both are only IPX4-rated for water splashes. So, you won't be able to run with these in the rain or accidentally drop them in your drink. There's a practical reason for this, though. 

It's a side effect of their advanced noise cancellation. There are multiple microphones on these earpieces, and each is a point where water can enter and ruin the show. 

Sony WF-1000M4 vs Apple AirPods Pro: sound quality

Technically, the Sony WF-1000XM4 have superior audio tech inside, but there's more to sound quality than the internal speaker; Apple made considerable improvements to sound quality in the 2nd Generation AirPod Pros. 

Where the older pair was a clear step below the Sony WF-1000XM4, the latest set has a different character and is of comparable quality. The Apple AirPod Pro earphones have well-balanced, mature-sounding tuning. And the bass is more restrained and tasteful than other headphones. 

But let's consider that the Sony WF-1000XM4 have a warmer sound, with slightly deeper-sounding bass but less of a sense of energy in the higher registers. You may prefer the Sony style if a smoother character appeals, but in a technical sense, Apple's tuning may be better. 

As with most Apple products, you have less control over them, so the performance out-of-the-box is mostly what you're stuck with. However, Sony gives you more control over the sound, with EQ built into the companion app on your phone. More treble "zing" is on offer if you want it. 

Sony WF-1000M4 vs Apple AirPods Pro: features

Aside from sound quality, noise cancellation is one of the most essential features. Both sets have high-quality active noise cancellation (ANC), helping you focus on your workouts. However, we found that the Sony set performed slightly better during our tests. 

This is because the Sony WF-1000XM4 are also designed for passive noise cancellation, with the physical design also blocking sounds from reaching your ear. Sony's polyurethane foam does the job better, letting the earphones eliminate more high-frequency noise. 

But we did find that the ANC on the second-generation AirPods Pro was more effective at blocking out some lower frequencies, which makes them a better choice for removing the sounds of traffic, planes, or gym machines. 

And when we took each set outside, Apple's wind noise reduction was slightly better than Sony's. Generally, there wasn't much difference, but the common whistling noise caused by the ANC afflicted neither set. We did also feel Apple has a slight edge for call quality too. 

You can use the Sony WF-1000M4 and Apple AirPods Pro with any Bluetooth-enabled device, but the AirPods Pro are designed to work best with other Apple devices. There are exclusive features, like Spatial Audio and Siri integration, which only work if connected to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. 

Sony WF-1000M4 vs Apple AirPods Pro: battery life

The Sony WF-1000XM4 have a massive lead in battery life, though. You can expect the pair to last 7.5 to 8 hours between charges with ANC, compared to 5.5 to 6 hours in the AirPods Pro.

Those two hours make a big difference to how these earphones are to live with, month after month. And while we rarely switch off ANC, the WF-1000XM4 can last up to 12 hours a charge with no noise cancellation. 

Then again, the Sony case only holds power for two total charges, far lower than Apple's four full charges for the AirPods Pro. Plus, if you get the second-generation AirPods Pro, a small speaker on the case emits a tone if you're trying to locate them using Apple's Find My app. 

Sony WF-1000M4 vs Apple AirPods Pro: verdict

If you've been debating the Sony WF-1000M4 vs Apple AirPods Pro, both sets are strong contenders for your workouts. These wireless earbuds have great battery life, excellent sound quality, and noise cancellation. 

On the surface, it's easy to think there's not much difference between them. However, the Apple charging case holds more power, and the AirPods are the ideal choice if you're already invested in the Apple ecosystem. 

But the Sony set are designed to block sounds too passively, so if you're trying to drown out a noisy gym, they're the better option. Plus, if you use an Android smartphone, they're a high-performance alternative to the iPhone-focused AirPods. 

Neither are specifically designed for exercise, so it's worth keeping your options open. Jabra also produces a range of noise-canceling, long-lasting workout earbuds, so take a look at our comparison of the Jabra Elite 75t vs 85t if you want more choice. 

Although the Apple Watch Series 8 and Fitbit Sense 2 have now launched, the Apple Watch Series 7 and first-generation Fitbit Sense are still a great option. With newer models available, the two older devices are often heavily discounted, but are still packed with health and fitness-tracking features. 

As retailers work to clear 'old' stock, it’s worth noting that both of these models are still among some of the best fitness trackers you can buy. In fact, the newer models offer relatively little new features for their higher price.

The Apple Watch Series 8 adds a temperature sensor that can track ovulation and car crash detection, while the Sense 2 adds a variety of new workout modes and makes the EDA scan a more passive tool that you don’t need to trigger.

We’d argue neither is worth the upgrade, and with discounts expected on the Apple Watch Series 7 and the first Fitbit Sense, the two seem to be once again competing for your attention. Here are our impressions of both, as well as which you should choose.

Fitbit Sense vs Apple Watch 7: price

The Fitbit Sense debuted at the high price of $299.95/£299.95 in September 2020 alongside the Versa 3, but we’ve now seen it as low as $179.99 fairly regularly at the likes of Amazon. 

The Apple Watch Series 7, seen below, is a little more complicated because Apple has removed it from sale so the race is on to secure older stock. The device launched with 41mm and 45mm variants back in 2021, but the former is very tough to find without opting for a used version. 

On the other hand, the 45mm option can be found for as low as $295 to $310, depending on color and whether you want a cellular connection. That’s a steep drop from the $429 it cost new in that size. 

Fitbit Sense vs Apple Watch 7: design

Much of the Fitbit Sense’s design language appears to have been borrowed from the Apple Watch, with a rounded square design, bright display, and silicon straps. 

Look a little closer, though, and the differences become apparent. For one, the Apple Watch has two physical controls on one side – a side button, and the Digital Crown. The Fitbit Sense, on the other hand, has a single capacitive (touch-sensitive) button.

There’s also a larger screen on the Apple Watch 7 thanks to the way its display cascades over the edges of the chassis, whereas the Fitbit Sense display is flatter. Apple’s 1.9-inch screen also has more pixels (484x396) than Fitbit’s 1.58-inch one (336x336).

Fitbit Sense vs Apple Watch 7: features

While they may look somewhat similar, the Fitbit Sense and Apple Watch 7 are very different devices, and that’s primarily down to how they’re categorized.

The Fitbit Sense is, in the most basic sense, a fitness tracker, while the Apple Watch is a smartwatch. That may seem like splitting hairs, but there are sizeable differences and different pros and cons that go with both of those designations.

The Fitbit Sense, for example, is made for tracking your steps, heart rate, blood oxygen level, and more, but essentially ties into an app on your phone to present much of the data and do a fair amount of the heavy lifting.

The Apple Watch, on the other hand, is intrinsically linked to your iPhone (Android users need not apply), and that means it can do things the Fitbit can only dream of. It can store music to play directly to your earphones, it can type and send messages, you can install apps on it, and it can link directly to other third-party workout apps like Strava or Fitbod.

You can also get an Apple Watch with a cellular connection (although you’ll need a plan from your carrier to take advantage of it), which means you can make calls, send and receive messages, and more without having your phone with you.

Fitbit Sense vs Apple Watch 7: performance

Whether you need all of those features or just want a nudge to get off the couch every so often is up to you, but in our testing, we’ve found both devices to be more than capable of tracking workouts consistently with each other thanks to built-in GPS on both. 

It’s worth noting, though, that you’ll have to charge the Apple Watch more often. It’ll be gasping for a charge after a day and a half (on a good day), and the more you use it, the more you’ll see diminishing returns.

On the other hand, the Fitbit Sense will hit six days of battery life, including overnight sleep tracking. That means if you’re always on the go, it could be the option for you.

Finally, it’s worth noting that while the Fitbit Sense 2 now has 40 workout types, the Sense 1 only has half of that number. That may mean you struggle to find something that fits the activity you’re doing, whereas Apple Watch is consistently getting new, sometimes obscure workout types added.

Fitbit Sense vs Apple Watch 7: verdict

The Apple Watch Series 7 and the Fitbit Sense are very different devices, and the price gap certainly reflects that.

If you’re looking for a wearable that packs a remarkable amount of tech into a device that fits on your wrist, the Apple Watch is a great purchase if you can find it at a discount.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something solely focused on fitness (or you have an Android phone), the Fitbit Sense is a good option.

Thinking about getting an Apple Watch? There are three key models you need to consider: the Apple Watch SE, the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch Ultra. You can think of them as the cheaper one, the “normal” one and the hardcore one with a bunch of feature you probably don't need. They are among some of the best fitness trackers that we've ever tested, but they're not exactly cheap. The basic Apple Watch SE will cost you $249, while the Ultra comes in at $799. For context, something basic like a Fitbit Luxe would cost you less than $80. 

You can also find the older Apple Watch Series 7 models on third-party retailer sites for around $300. Apple doesn't manufacture these models anymore, so you won't be able to get them through the company's online shop, but places like Target and Best Buy sell them for discounted rates. 

Before you buy, it's worth considering whether or not you really need to upgrade to the latest model. We’re going to take a look at what separates these watches, how much money you might be able to get off their original prices during the holiday sales, and outline a couple of reasons you might want to hold off from buying them just yet.

Best Apple Watch deals right now

Prices and discounts

Apple’s Watch SE model starts at a relatively low $249, while the basic Apple Watch Series 8 costs $399. If you opt for a Series 8 model that uses either an aluminum casing or a stainless steel one, you'll have to pay a little more (around $699).

This higher cost shows the Apple Watch Ultra is perhaps a better deal than you might think. It starts at $799 and has a Titanium case, which is typically a more expensive material than stainless steel in wearables. 

During sales periods, we expect to see reductions of around $50 - $60 on current gen models, like the Apple Watch 8. Anything bigger than this represents a pretty good discount.

We might see bigger price crashes on the Apple Watch 7. As outlined above, this has been discontinued by Apple, but is available from third-party retailers. As it shares many similar features with the Apple Watch 8, it might be a better option if you're trying to spend a little less.

For context, we've previously seen the Apple Watch 7 retail for as low as $283. Anything below this would be a standout deal (and offer a significant saving over the $399 Apple Watch Series 8!)

Health and wellness features

What separates the three current generation Apple Watch models on the health and fitness side? Let’s start with the top one and work our way down.

The Apple Watch Ultra is an adventure-style watch, the first in the series to deserve that title. Highlights include multi-band GPS, which offers better tracking accuracy in areas with weaker GPS signal, and a depth gauge for divers. Apple says you can go diving at a depth of up to 40m, thanks to the watch’s 10ATM water resistance. 

You lose these fringe case benefits in the Apple Watch Series 8. But it still has excellent 5ATM water resistance, location tracking via GPS, blood oxygenation readings, a temperature sensor, 24/7 heart rate readings and ECG. That last feature stands for echocardiogram, a way to check for signs of heart arrhythmia. 

The Apple Watch Series 7 doesn't have the temperature sensor and it lacks the crash detector of the newer Series 8 model, but it packs in all the other features.

Stepping down to the Apple Watch SE, we lose the ECG and the blood oxygenation stats. And the temperature sensor introduced in the Watch Series 8, which can estimate ovulation times each month to aid cycle tracking.

However, not everyone needs to care about these features, particularly if you want an Apple Watch primarily to track exercise and for everyday smartwatch fun. If that's the case, you might be better served by a really basic, budget fitness tracker.

Smartwatch features

All three current-gen Apple Watch models run the same core software. They have the same processor too, an Apple S8, so should be equally responsive. The Series 7 runs on the older S7 processor, although most reports indicate that it's still fairly fast.

There are some important differences to note between the more expensive models and the Watch SE, though. The Watch SE has no always-on display mode. Where the Series 8, Series 7 and Ultra can display the time all day if you like, the Watch SE only lights up when you flick your wrist around or actually interact with the thing. In our opinion, “always-on” makes wearables far more enjoyable to use as actual watches. 

If you splash out on an Ultra, screen brightness doubles too, from an impressive 1000 nits in the Watch SE and Watch Series 8 to a borderline ridiculous 2000 nits. Considering how bright 1000 nits is, you may only appreciate the Ultra extra if you find yourself walking across a snowy wilderness in blazing sunshine. But, hey, it is an adventure-ready watch.

Finishing up on features, the Apple Watch Ultra has a much better speaker than the other two, in order to facilitate the 86-decibel emergency siren (we told you – it really is an adventure companion).

Reliability and performance

Battery life is the clearest way the Apple Watch Ultra outperforms the other watches. It is rated for 36 hours of use, double that of the SE and Series 8. That said, we’ve always found Apple’s battery predications to be a little conservative, as we can easily make the Apple Series 8 last a day and a few hours. 

The Apple Watch Ultra will also have an edge for GPS accuracy, as it has Multi-Band GPS. This allows for more accurate location tracking, and better maps of your runs and walks. 

However, we have never had any significant issues with the last few generations of Apple Watch. The benefits of Multi-Band GPS are going to be most obvious when you head out to areas where signal is poor. Your local park is unlikely to confuse the Apple Watch SE’s regular GPS. 

All Apple watches also have excellent heart rate sensors, able to produce results very similar to those of a dedicated heart rate chest strap. Runners looking do a couch-to-5K program, or train for a marathon, are likely to be happy with any of these watches — if they can stomach the relatively short battery life. 

Verdict

The Apple Watch SE might be our number one recommendation here, were it not for one missing feature: an always-on display. Not everyone needs ECG or blood oxygen readings, but all can appreciate how much better an Apple Watch Series 8 works as a plain old watch than the affordable SE model. 

Apple’s Watch Ultra mostly brings benefits for adventuring types: those who snorkel a lot or dive, and folks who want to be able to go away for weekends and actually see their watch last. 

Finally, if you want most of the Apple Watch 8 features but don't fancy the price, have a look around at prices on the older Apple Watch 7 model. There might be some large discounts during this year's sales. 

We'd only really recommend splashing out on the latest Series 8 model if there are some wild deals around – or if you're desperate for the temperature tracking and crash detection features. 

We've got you covered if you've been looking for a fitness-focused Apple Watch Series 7 review. We put Apple's latest flagship smartwatch to the test to see if there's a capable fitness tracker hidden under the Watch's stylish exterior. 

We found that the Apple Watch Series 7 makes a pitch for the best running watch, but ultimately, it is better if you're a more casual runner or don't require it for any particularly long routes or races. It does make for a good general-purpose tracker, though, capable of recording yoga classes, gym workouts, or HIIT sessions. 

It's really easy to start recording a run on the watch, and you can customize the on-screen metrics by adjusting this in your settings. Plus, the Watch Series 7 is compatible with popular running apps such as Strava and RunKeeper, and you can leave your iPhone at home while out for a run, thanks to the built-in GPS. 

In keeping with Apple's closed ecosystem, the Apple Watch Series 7 only works with the iPhone, so, sadly, this watch is of little use to any Android-owning runners out there. Compared to running-focused watches from Garmin or Polar, the Apple Watch Series 7 doesn't have great battery life—you'll need to charge it almost daily. 

This is why it just doesn't seem like a suitable watch for keen marathon runners or more adventurous runners. In fairness to Apple, it hasn't designed the Watch Series 7 for this purpose. The wearable is more suited to various everyday activities, like receiving notifications and taking phone calls. But it is definitely not one to rule out; read on to find out everything we did and didn't like about the Apple Watch Series 7. 

Apple Watch Series 7 review: price and features

If you're thinking of buying the Apple Watch Series 7, you will be spending $399/£369 on one. The Series 7 comes in two sizes, the smaller being 41mm and the larger being 45mm. Plus, the smartwatch is available in five different colors: midnight, starlight, green, blue, and red.

For reference, we tested out the 45mm Series 7 in the color Starlight. We often comment on how the more rugged-looking running watches we test, like the Garmin Instinct 2S, can look clunky off the running track and paired with everyday clothing. The Apple Watch Series 7 is one of the few watches where this hasn't been the case.

Apple's ring-based system for tracking your physical activity is available on the watch face and is a great way to check in on your progress throughout the day, showing your movement (calories), exercise (time), and standing time. You can customize the on-screen running and workout metrics using the Watch app on your iPhone. 

The following metrics are available to choose from: distance, duration, average pace, current pace, active calories, total calories, heart rate, and elevation gain. Compared to the competition, it's relatively basic, but the GPS tracking proved pretty accurate for us during testing. 

In theory, you could use this watch for more serious training and replace one of the more comprehensive running watches with the third-party apps available to download to the Apple Watch Series 7. But the real bug-bear with this watch is its battery life; we had to charge this watch every morning. 

Incredibly, despite first launching back in 2015, the Apple Watch only recently gained full sleep tracking with the release of the watchOS 7 software update. But since the Apple Watch doesn't have a considerable reputation for sleep tracking, we weren't fussed about not wearing this watch to bed and instead charged it overnight.

With this watch, you can use Apple's Fitness+ app, meaning you have access to heaps of guided workouts, and the first three months are on Apple. We enjoyed using the Mindfulness app while testing out this Apple watch.

A session begins with a question for you to reflect on, followed by a display of moving and colliding shapes. This might sound a bit airy-fairy to some, but it is a nice way to either get into the zone for a run or race or to help you relax before bed.

Mental well-being is equally important to physical well-being, so it's nice to see a fitness watch make this more accessible for users. Apple Fitness+ is currently an exclusive feature tied to the Apple Watch, but be sure to check out our Apple Fitness+ review before signing up. 

Apple Watch Series 7 review: design

If you're not into wearing big bright wrist straps or clunky black fitness trackers, then you will probably enjoy how the Apple Watch Series 7 looks on your wrist; we certainly did while testing the Starlight model.

The colors on offer with the Series 7 are more muted than some older models and make for a more subtle look on the wrist. The crown button is a helpful way to navigate around the watch, especially mid-workout when your hands are too sweaty to operate the touch screen with ease.

This latest edition of the Apple Watch is more durable, with an IP6X rating for dust resistance. We enjoyed the OLED display on this watch and noticed no scratches or marks on the screen during testing.

The Series 7 is waterproof for shallow water activities (up to 50 meters), but this is the same for all Apple Watch models from the Series 2 onwards. If you're a keen runner and dabble in triathlon or are considering it, you might be better with an alternative. 

For regular water-based exercise, something like the Garmin Forerunner 735 XT is a better option as it's been designed especially for tracking swimming, running, and cycling together, and it's beginner friendly, too. 

Apple Watch Series 7 review: display

The Apple Watch Series 7 is theoretically easier to use than earlier models, thanks to its sizable display. It's 20% larger than previous editions, so there's more room on the display and an extended touch-compatible area. 

The edition of the Apple Watch comes with an always-on display, which is brighter than older Apple watch models. This dials up the brightness during specific activities. The default Apple apps have this enabled, but other developers have to build it into their software, so your favorite apps might not have this just yet. 

The larger display on the Apple Watch Series 7 means you can use the expanded on-screen keyboard from your wrist. This can come in handy when out for a walk or run and if you need to send a quick 'Yes' or 'Be back soon' message, but we think it's still too much faff for anything longer.

Apple Watch Series 7 review: data tracking

Many people compare Apple Watch vs Fitbit to track their daily steps, but this doesn't mean the Apple Watch is limited to everyday activities like walking. As well as pretty regular activities like running and cycling, you can track more diverse forms of exercise like Pilates, hiking, and Tai chi.

Plus, if you regularly work out at the gym or own any of the best exercise machines to lose weight, you can sync your Watch with GymKit-compatible equipment. As a result, you can track equipment-based workouts just as you would a run or weights session and add them to your Apple Health profile. 

Your Apple Watch comes with a three-month free trial of the Apple Fitness+ virtual workout platform. We hate to miss out on a free trial, so we gave the classes a go. It's worthwhile purchasing if you work out from home and need that element of motivation that you typically get in an in-person fitness class with others.

The workouts aren't live, but there are several instructors for different classes (such as HIIT, yoga, treadmill workouts, and mindful cooldowns) that provide clear and positive instruction, and the exercises are challenging. 

We already mentioned sleep tracking. As we had to charge our Watch Series 7 overnight to survive the next day, it was impractical to test it out overnight on our wrist. When we did wear it to track our sleep, we didn't gain much helpful information in the morning other than our overall sleep time.

There is no detail on your sleep modes, how restless you were, and how this ties in with your overall body battery between exercise and rest. It's surprising, mainly because there have been so many iterations of the Apple Watch for them to add these relatively basic metrics. 

Likewise, we would have liked to have seen the addition of interval sessions to this watch, and as a result, we view this as a pretty basic watch for tracking your running training. Nonetheless, the Series 7 has a selection of helpful GPS sensors, including GPS, QZSS, GLONASS, and Beidou. 

These all allow the watch to see big satellites in the sky and help to track you as you move around. During testing, we compared the heart rate monitor to a more technical running watch (the Garmin Forerunner 735XT) and got nearly identical readings.

As with the Apple Watch Series 5 and 6, the Series 7 includes a SpO2 sensor for monitoring your blood oxygen levels. If you're into learning more about how you're overall health affects your fitness, readings like this are a good place to start. Although these tracking features aren't medical-grade, they are still useful to see and could detect potential health issues.

Apple Watch Series 7 review: performance

We didn't have many qualms about the overall performance of the Apple Watch Series 7 during testing. The large screen was crisp to read, and the watch's touch response was very effective.

The device charges reasonably quickly and is fast to respond to touch and voice commands around the interface. It was straightforward to set up, and despite not having as excellent battery life as other fitness watches out there, it never died on us nor crashed during any activities.

It was a pretty seamless experience using this watch, and any faults we have identified have little to do with the actual performance of this watch and more to do with its limitations in terms of functions and features.

Apple Watch Series 7 review: battery life

The battery life of the Apple Watch Series 7 doesn't fare well against other running or fitness watches, averaging about a day of use. Some alternatives, like the Garmin Instinct Solar, even come with solar charging, so you don't even need to plug it in. 

However, we found that the Apple Watch Series 7 lasts up to 20 hours on a single charge, or you can push this to a day and a half if you aren't fussed about having the always-on display toggled on.

If you want to track your sleep on top of daily exercise and activity, then you will need to plug it in before bed. It's also worthwhile pointing out that the Series 7 charges using a USB-C cable with a magnetic plate for the watch, so you'll need to ensure you have a compatible charging port.

We worked around this by charging it via our laptop, but this may frustrate some people who are used to the more standard USB-A charging cables. However, the USB-C technology can charge your watch much faster than the older USB cables. 

Apple Watch Series 7 review: verdict

The Apple Watch Series 7 is a great all-around choice for anyone looking to track and improve their fitness on a more general level. It's user-friendly in our eyes and a lot easier to navigate than some models, especially for first-time fitness watch buyers, but it is only available to iPhone users. 

Alongside the Apple Watch's core functions, like calls, notifications, and messaging, you can track the basics of your running training and other activities like Pilates and hiking. And if you extend the three-month free trial of Apple Fitness+, you can definitely improve your fitness via the selection of guided workouts provided.

But if you're really into your fitness, want to train for a specific event, or like to keep tabs on your personal bests while navigating complex trails, there are better options out there. Overall, the Apple Watch Series 7 is an excellent choice if you want to monitor your everyday activity, but we still feel the single-day battery life is a bit of a letdown for a watch this expensive. 

Also consider

If you aren't sold on the Apple Watch Series 7 or use an Android smartphone, you do have other excellent options if you're looking for the perfect wearable for your workouts. Check out the different options below or read our in-depth guides to the best running watch or the best fitness tracker.

Fitbit Versa 3

If you're after a casual but stylish watch to track your runs without the Apple price tag, consider the Fitbit Versa 3. This Google-powered smartwatch tracks your workouts, monitors your sleep, and keeps an eye on your heart. Plus, it's water resistant up to 50m and has a large display, like the Apple Watch. 

Garmin Venu 2 Plus

If you’re looking to step up your running then the Garmin Venu 2 Plus smartwatch is a good stepping stone toward tracking more running-specific stats. It doesn’t look too clunky for a running watch, has a color touchscreen, built-in GPS for tracking your route, and offers more in-depth sleep analysis than the Apple Watch Series 7. 

Apple cider vinegar benefits have gotten a lot more attention in recent years. It was once an overlooked ingredient present in various food condiments like salad dressings, marinades, and chutneys. But now, the vinegar is being consumed as it is on its own by health aficionados who are using the vinegar as an ingredient with hopes of enhancing their overall health and wellbeing.

One of our writers even hopped on the trend to see what happened when we drank apple cider vinegar for 30 days after reading up on it. According to research published in the Journal of Functional Foods, vinegar made from fermented apple juice can aid weight loss, increase the acidity in your stomach, and manage blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, other research suggests that this vinegar can also lower cholesterol. However, this area of study on cider vinegar currently lacks testing on humans.

Since research is still being developed on the ingredient we took this health craze to expert nutritionists to help us pull apart fact from fiction on apple cider vinegar benefits. With their help, read on to find out how you can find out the safest way to ingest apple cider vinegar and any additional insight on the ingredient. 

What is apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar – which often gets referred to as ACV – has gained cult status within the health industry because of the handful of benefits it brings (more on this below).

Remember the ginger shot craze? Well, in more recent times ACV has claimed this ‘shot spot’, with health enthusiasts taking on 30-day shot challenges in a bid to reap the many rewards ACV promises. But despite its current fame, this now trending vinegar comes from very humble beginnings.

As Vic Coppin, nutrition expert at MuscleFood explains: “Apple cider vinegar is made up of mostly apple juice, however, the added sugar in the juice turns into alcohol (known as fermentation), and the bacteria then turns the alcohol into acetic acid which is how apple cider vinegar gets its famous strong smell and sour taste.”

Sometimes, along with being called ACV, this health product can also be referred to as ‘The Mother’, due to the bacteria which is added which ‘gives rise’ to the vinegar.

What are the benefits of apple cider vinegar?

1. It could help aid weight loss

According to research published in the Journal of Functional Foods, there's a connection between apple cider vinegar and weight loss.

The 2017 clinical trial made this discovery after placing participants on a diet eating 250 calories less a day over a 12-week period. Half the group also had to drink 0.5 fl oz/15 ml of apple cider vinegar, while the other half didn’t. The result? The group that drank the shot of apple cider vinegar lost around 3 lbs more than the group that didn’t.

But while this is all well and good, as Coppin warns: “Taking apple cider vinegar as a quick fix won't help with long-term weight loss. Weight loss will only occur if you’re in a calorie deficit whilst maintaining a balanced diet.”

2.  It increases stomach acidity

This might not sound like a good thing – but stomach acidity is key when it comes to good digestion.

That’s because the main substance in vinegar is acetic acid. According to science, this acid is what gives vinegar its strong, sour aroma and flavor. And it’s what gives it its high PH level too.

But why is increasing your stomach’s acidity a good thing? As Pauline Cox MSc, functional nutritionist for Wiley's Finest tells us: “ACV increases stomach acidity. The key to optimum health lies in absorption, and absorption starts in the stomach.”

The stomach is designed to be a highly acidic environment.

“At optimum levels, it has a pH of between pH1-3,” Cox explains. “This is very, very acidic. Stomach acid can kill invading pathogens, microbes or bacteria that enter via our mouth. A less acidic stomach leaves us vulnerable to invasion by foreign bacteria and gastrointestinal infections.” 

Cox also mentions we need a very acidic stomach to break down protein and absorb key vitamins and minerals.

She says: “Protein is made up of building blocks called amino acids. These amino acids are incredibly important for the body. They are the raw materials we need to make all proteins, from our muscle tissue, skin and bones to our happy hormones. Without adequate amino acids we can develop poor skin healing, hair thinning, weak and brittle nails, low mood, depression and even osteoporosis.”

3. It could manage your blood sugar levels

Along with promoting good gut health, according to a small study conducted by the American Diabetes Association, apple cider vinegar can also help reduce the blood glucose spikes after eating – especially in people with Type 1 Diabetes.   

Describing how ACV helps do this, Coppin says: “The acetic acid in vinegar blocks the enzymes that help our bodies to digest starch which then leads to a smaller surge in blood sugar.”

Is apple cider vinegar good for you?

The short answer to this question is: yes, apple cider vinegar can be good for you if taken correctly. Just make sure you’re getting the best quality apple cider vinegar by picking options from raw and unpasteurized sources.

Cox explains: “Raw, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar is a rich source of beneficial bacteria which is beneficial for gut health and microbiome diversity.

“A healthy, diverse gut microbiome has broad implications for overall health, including health digestion, immune function, inflammatory levels and gut brain communication.”

And Coppin agrees. She says: “Whilst it contains little to no vitamins and minerals, apple cider vinegar does contain amino acids and antioxidants that can help to protect against the cell damage that free radicals cause, known as oxidative stress, such as tissue trauma or environmental pollution, for example.” 

However, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking certain medications, Coppin advises speaking to your health care provider first before including it in your diet.

How can you work apple cider vinegar into your diet?

Gone are the days of just using this vinegar in salad dressings and marinades. While these are brilliant ways of including apple cider vinegar in your diet, if diluted properly with water, you can drink it.

Coppin says: “It needs to be diluted properly with water due to the strength of its acidity, which can damage your teeth, and throat, and upset your stomach if ingested otherwise.

“It’s recommended that anywhere between a teaspoon to a tablespoon is mixed with around 250ml of water.”

It’s also important to note that there while there is no specific guidance on consuming apple cider vinegar, “One to two tablespoons per day will be sufficient for those looking to implement it within their diet and experience the benefits it can offer,” Vic tells us.

After all, “it's classed as a remedy and not as a medicine,” she says.

Looking for other ways to change up your diet? Find out how to lower your blood sugar levels or what to eat to lower blood pressure.

This is Fit&Well’s Apple AirPods Pro review. Apple’s true wireless headphones are well-known by sight: you only have to look around on public transit and in office spaces these days to spot at least one pair of sleek white AirPods. 

The latest generation of AirPods Pro, complete with a MagSafe wireless charging case, are excellent in function as well as form, stuffed with all the high-end gadgetry we’ve come to expect from the best workout earbuds.

Transparency mode, active noise cancellation, wireless charging, and a snug, adjustable fit to stay secure in your ears during working out. But can these all-rounders compete with their competitors in the workout earbud stakes? We put the AirPods through their paces to find out more.

Apple AirPods Pro review: Price and availability

The Apple AirPods Pro can be bought directly from the Apple Store, priced at $249 in the US and £239 in the UK. 

However, they can be found for less at lots of other retailers, with the headphones going for $199 at Best Buy for US buyers. In the UK, they can be snapped up for £189 at Argos, saving you £40. They are very popular items, so looking around can usually net you a great deal on these wireless earbuds. 

Apple AirPods Pro review: Features

The AirPods Pro are stuffed with great features. Compared with the entry-level AirPods, the AirPods Pro come with active noise cancellation, which intelligently filters out background noise with several microphones dotted around the earpiece. 

There’s also a Transparency mode for when you want to hear what’s going on around you, which you can activate by holding the “force sensor” at the stem of the earbud. This is slightly different to the similarly-named HearThrough mode on the Jabra Elite 7 Active earbuds. 

The Jabra set elevates the background noises without entirely disabling the ANC, while the Transparency mode on the AirPods Pro effectively turns off the ANC, so it’s as though you aren’t wearing the earbuds at all. 

I also found them comfortable to wear for hours at a time, thanks to the in-bud vent system for pressure equalization. The headphones come equipped with Apple’s H1 chip, which powers the ANC and lets you talk to Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant. 

The latest AirPods Pro also support Spatial Audio, an immersive audio format which takes the position of your head into account, so it sounds like you’re actually in the room. 

Battery life is said to be five hours for the headphones themselves, with a total of 19 hours when you take into account the buds charge inside the case. The case’s wireless fast-charging means just five minutes in the case afford you another hour of listening – perfect for long journeys. 

If you’re an Android user, however, you lose some features. The in-app Ear Tip Fit Test, which helps you select the right size silicone tips for your ears, can’t be done on Android. Ambient Noise Reduction, which allows you to toggle how much background sound you can filter out, can’t be used either – transparency mode is either on or off here. Audio Sharing, which allows multiple AirPods users to listen to the same source, is also gone for Android users. 

I’m sure you’re getting the picture. Much of the intelligence of the AirPods depends on the Apple and iOS ecosystem. Using them on Android reduces them to smart-looking, high-quality noise canceling earbuds, with nothing else going for them. At full price, at least, Android users may want to look elsewhere.  

Apple AirPods Pro review: Design and comfort

The AirPods Pro are very comfortable, snug, and as secure as any set of earbuds; the ones without the additional over-ear hooks, anyway. Your choice of three sizes of silicone ear tips are intelligently selected via the AirPods Pro Ear Tip Fit Test, available in-app. The test automatically suggests the best size to suit your ears, and although this sounds trivial, it’s actually quite important–and not just for comfort. 

A good seal stops sound from leaking in from outside or escaping, which is essential when it comes to getting the best out of these smart noise-cancellers. 

However, the AirPods are extremely comfortable. The gentle curve is a lot less obtrusive and more attractive than the old straight stem. The additional point of contact against your cheek, combined with the silicone seal, also made the AirPods extremely secure on runs and during gym sessions. Only once or twice did I feel the buds loosen of their own accord, and that was before I used the Ear Tip Fit Test and went up a size. 

Design-wise, the AirPods look great and are easy to use. Setting them up and using them is an absolute breeze – on iOS. On Android, they work as well as any other Bluetooth headphones, but trying to find third-party workarounds for key features like Audio Sharing and Ambient Noise Reduction is nigh-on impossible. 

Apple AirPods Pro review: Sound and performance

The AirPods Pro are no slouch in the sound department. When I was out for a run on a busy street and in the gym blocking out dance tunes with my own music, the audio quality was absolutely superb. 

Everything I listened to had a satisfying boom to it. With silky tenor tones and bassy beats during cardio-focused dance tracks, right down to the utter filth in my industrial metal weightlifting playlist, the music was an all-around pleasure to listen to. 

Podcasts, too, performed well, along with audiobooks–I frequently run while listening to books, and vocals were reproduced with great care and complexity. The noise cancellation allowed me to really get lost in the narrative, even along a busy thoroughfare. Again, adjusting the finer details wasn’t possible on my Android device compared to my partner’s iPhone, but they performed well enough away from the Apple ecosystem for me to not immediately discount them.

The noise-canceling held up well in both gym and running environments, although not quite as well as the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, which remain the top in-ear noise-canceling buds I’ve ever tried. The battery actually felt like it lasted longer than its mooted five-hour runtime; I used the earbuds at work all afternoon, then went for a long run with no signs of slouching. The buds performed extremely well in all tests. 

Apple AirPods Pro review: Verdict

If you have an iPhone or Apple Watch, the AirPods Pro are likely going to be your first choice. They boast great sound quality. They charge quickly. They look sleek and feel unobtrusive. One big problem is that they are squarely inside the Apple ecosystem, so if you’re already an iPhone user, go ahead and consider this a five-star review.

For anybody else, you’re sadly locked out of a selection of features notable enough to drop the Apple AirPods Pro down at least one star, maybe even two at full price. With that in mind, I’ve put the Apple AirPods Pro square in the middle at four stars: they’re amazing headphones, especially when you can grab a deal and get them $50 cheaper or more at a third-party retail outlet, but anyone other than existing Apple users will find them lacking.   

Also consider: Jabra Elite 7 Active

The Jabra Elite 7 Active contains a lot of what makes the AirPods Pro great, with active noise canceling and HearThrough modes allowing you to tailor your listening experiences, from noisy gyms to quiet coffee shops. The battery life is even better than Apple's offering, at 30 hours with the case included, and the Shakegrip design means the buds stay snug in your ears.  They're also slightly cheaper than AirPods, will all those premium features accessible for both Android and iOS users. 

The thought of drinking apple cider vinegar every day might seem a little repulsive to some. 

And I agree - plain tap water is actually more appealing, however, with apple cider vinegar supposedly possessing so many health benefits, I figured I’d go all in and drink it every day for 30 days.

One of the key reasons that people seem to applaud apple cider vinegar, is because it supposedly helps with weight loss. Could it be better than using the best exercise machine to lose weight? Well, I was keen to find out if this helped me shed some of the remaining Christmas weight and to see what else might happen. 

So, 30 days, let’s go!

Apple cider vinegar challenge: what is it?

I’d heard good things about apple cider vinegar, which often gets abbreviated to ACV.

From weight loss to helping to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, this acidic, sour-tasting blend of apples and yeast has shot to fame in recent years for supposedly helping boost health. Even though it’s acidic, apple cider vinegar helps balance the body’s pH levels too which could, supposedly, help avoid illness.

Bottles of apple cider vinegar tend to contain something called The Mother; an odd name to describe the collection of bacteria (acetobacter aceti to be precise) that forms during the fermentation process. Could this bacteria help sort my dodgy gut out, beat the bloat, and make my digestion a little ‘smoother’?

My challenge involved taking a 50ml shot of apple cider vinegar every morning before food. 

I opted for Willy’s ACV Turmeric + Apple Cider Vinegar with Honey & Black Pepper. Willy’s ACV states that every drop is loaded with ‘premium live probiotics to boost your gut health and help you feel fantastic’.

Bring it on! Here’s what I noticed when I drank apple cider vinegar for 30 days…

1. I didn’t lose weight. Not even an inch 

I maintained the same diet and exercise regime throughout this whole experiment, so any weight loss, I figured, would be down to my apple cider vinegar consumption.

But nope, my jeans were just as snug as always and the scales stayed the same. 

Research published in the Journal of Functional Foods covered the apple cider vinegar and weight loss connection. The study placed participants on a diet eating 250 calories less than their bodies needed. Half the group also had 15ml of apple cider vinegar; the other half didn’t. The apple cider vinegar group lost around 3lbs more, however, this was done over 12 weeks. That’s three months. And for just 3 lbs in three months, I’m not sure it’s worth the five seconds of taste bud torture if I’m honest. Oh, and on that note of taste…

2. The taste became bearable

For the first two weeks of taking apple cider vinegar, I winced every time I had to do my shot in the morning.

It was awful and I genuinely didn’t know if I could keep it up. However, once these initial two weeks passed, the taste became quite nice. I found that I was doing less of the exaggerated, scrunched-up facial expressions.  

I did some reading and discovered that no, taste buds don’t become ‘accustomed’ to sour tastes, so perhaps I just learned to love it.

3. It made me bloat… 

Look, I’ll be honest, I’m one of those annoying people that glance at food or drink and just seems to balloon. And subsequently moans about it to everyone in the vicinity. So, with apple cider vinegar supposedly great for gut health thanks to all the bacteria it possesses, I figured it would help. But, alas! 

For the first two to three weeks of taking apple cider vinegar every morning, I noticed that immediately after taking it my stomach basically blew up. It wasn’t extreme but it was enough for me to notice.

I spoke to nutritionist Rob Hobson about the bloating issue and he explained that the theory behind ACV is that ‘it is an antimicrobial substance, meaning it may kill bacteria in the stomach and excess of which may lead to bloating’. However, he does reiterate that the research is still relatively new in this area.

“If I client came to me with bloating then I would look at their whole diet and lifestyle as there are so many reasons for it.” Hobson told me.

…but then in time, my bloating subsided  

After this period of morning bloat, I started to notice that I was actually less bloated than normal and seemed to be less puffy. 

Perhaps the initial shock of apple cider vinegar bacteria took some getting used to for my gut.

Either way, taking apple cider vinegar was far more enjoyable when I wasn’t ballooning up after every shot.

4. It made me ‘go’

You knew it was coming. But yes, I must be open and tell you all that apple cider vinegar did indeed help things flow a little more easily.

As a female I often find that around my time of the month, going to the toilet can be more of a struggle; if you’re a woman I’m sure you can relate. However, even during my period, taking apple cider vinegar every morning meant I was still regular, which was actually a huge relief.

5. My skin glowed 

I know my skin inside out, and I’m well aware of the hormonal fluctuations that take place on my face right before I’m due on my period. Although I broke out big-time in the first week of my challenge, going forward I spotted fewer pimples and just a general smoothness to my complexion. If I needed a reason to continue taking apple cider vinegar, this would be it. 

To sum up… 

Would I continue to take apple cider vinegar? I think I would perhaps do a 30-day stint every so often. For the skin benefits, I am all for it. 

Read about Lucy's other challenges from 100 lunges a day to 5k every day for a month.

Comparing the Apple Watch vs Fitbit can be tricky business. Both fitness-focused smartwatch brands track your workouts, monitor your heart, and record your sleep, so it can be hard to choose between them.

Fitbit was one of the first companies to popularize fitness trackers—wrist-worn devices that help you keep tabs on your activity throughout the day. It has also produced some of the best running watches and best fitness trackers with long battery life and built-in GPS in recent years.

Meanwhile, the Apple Watch, first released in 2015, has become one of the leading health and fitness-focused options for iPhone users. Now on it’s seventh iteration, Apple has even made the Watch an integral part of Apple Fitness+, its digital workout service.

Whether you decide on an Apple Watch or Fitbit smartwatch, both brands' wrist-worn wearables can record your daily steps, gather data on your sleep, and monitor your heart, which is why it can be hard to choose between Apple's high-tech watch and the best Fitbit.

To make things a bit clearer, we've taken a look at the key functions of the Apple Watch vs Fitbit alternatives to help you pick out the features that matter most and will help you sustainably reach your fitness goals and look after your health.

Apple Watch vs Fitbit: models, price, and compatibility

The Apple Watch is currently the only smartwatch the company produces. There are variations, like branded Nike editions or alternative designs and straps, but there is just a single core device. However, there have been several iterations of the watch.

Most recently, Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Series 7 in October 2021, with prices starting from $399/£369. It's the premium edition of the smartwatch, although a more budget-friendly model is the Apple Watch SE.

The SE is available from $249/£249 and comes with many of the Apple Watch's core features but in fewer colors and designs, with slightly older tech, and without some of the more advanced ECG and blood oxygen sensors.

There's more variety in Fitbit's range. The company started out producing fitness trackers, wrist-worn devices explicitly designed just to track fitness data. But the Google-owned tech brand also has several smartwatches.

The Fitbit Sense is the top-of-the-range model available for $299.99/£279.99 and is the most equivalent to the Apple Watch. It comes with blood oxygen sensors, an ECG feature, and built-in GPS for workout route tracking.

There's also the Fitbit Versa 3, the third iteration of the company's most popular mid-range smartwatch. This will set you back $229.95/£199.99 and offers a similar experience to the Sense but without blood oxygen monitoring and ECG sensors.

Fitbit's connected wearables are designed to work with iPhones and Android smartphones, although they aren't deeply integrated with the phone's software. The Apple Watch is only compatible with an iPhone but works seamlessly with the company's services.

Winner: It's a tie here as both brands create several watches for varying budgets. The Apple Watch is great for iPhone users, but Android owners will need to find a suitable Fitbit model.

Apple Watch vs Fitbit: fitness tracking

For most people, the main incentive for investing in a smartwatch is the fitness tracking capabilities, and for a good reason. According to Rachael Babiracki, a Head Trainer at Les Mills US, fitness trackers offer a valuable way to stay motivated and create a personalized training plan.

As she notes, "[seeing] your body's performance can help manage your workouts with intention and create even more drive and motivation. Smartwatches can also help optimize your sleep and assist in recovery which is an important part of any fitness plan."

The Apple Watch and all of Fitbit's devices come with sensors to help you understand your fitness levels. Fitbit's core features have always included step monitoring and sleep tracking and later expanded to in-workout and all-day heart rate monitoring. 

The Apple Watch has similar features, but rather than focus on the numbers, you're encouraged to close three rings representing your movement, exercise, and stand goals throughout the day. 

Both brands have companion apps for your phone. The Fitbit app is available for Android and iOS devices and is where you'll be able to dig into your data. You can browse key information on the Apple Watch itself or use the Apple Health and Fitness apps. 

Winner: Fitbit. The company popularized fitness trackers and inspired a whole market of wrist-worn wearables.

Apple Watch vs Fitbit: health monitoring

All editions of the Apple Watch and Fitbit smartwatches come with optical heart rate monitors. While it's interesting to see how your heart rate varies throughout the day, it has a more practical purpose too.

According to Babiracki, "tracking your heart rate helps make sure you're reaching the right intensity zones, and delivering the desired results when combining a mix of cardio, strength, and flexibility training in your workouts."

The beats per minute (BPM) reading from the sensor helps track your overall fitness, but your heart is also one of your most vital organs. Because it emits electrical pulses, Apple and Fitbit have developed sensors to alert you to possible medical problems. 

The Apple Watch, Fitbit Sense, and Fitbit Charge 5 come with an ECG sensor to detect abnormal heart rhythms. The watch creates a recording of the pattern that you can share with your doctor or medical professional when this happens. 

The Apple Watch's software, watchOS, has a few specific features that really set it apart. For instance, It can detect if the wearer has an unexpected fall and call the emergency services if they aren't moving a minute later.

The included Noise app uses the Watch's microphone to let you know if the sounds around you reach levels that could damage your hearing. And, by integrating with your phone's Health app, you can track your menstrual cycle directly on the Apple Watch.

Winner: Apple. The Apple Watch is considered one of the top consumer-grade health monitoring wearables.

Apple Watch vs Fitbit: fitness services

Both companies offer a subscription-based virtual workout platform. In Apple's case, this is Apple Fitness+, while Fitbit Premium is a close alternative but focuses on helping you explore the data recorded by your smartwatch.

Our Apple Fitness+ review found that it's a relatively affordable option if you already use other Apple devices, like an iPhone or Apple TV. It costs $79.99/£79.99 per year, and you can share your membership with up to five family members.

The Apple Watch is at the center of the platform, informing the on-screen statistics and personalized feedback. It started as a workout service but has since added guided meditations, walking podcasts, yoga, and new training sessions each week.

Fitbit Premium also costs $79.99/£79.99 annually, but the Fitbit smartwatches retail for less than an Apple Watch, so the total cost is slightly lower. The subscription includes access to video workouts in the Fitbit smartphone app, but that's not the focus.

Instead, it makes up part of a broader range of features to help you understand and contextualize the data your smartwatch captures. Without Fitbit Premium, you can open the app and view your daily steps, sleep, and workout metrics.

But the service tries to pull all of this together so that you can see how what you're eating influences your workouts, which affects your sleep, and how active you are the following day.

Winner: It's another tie, as the answer depends on your interests. Love analyzing data? Fitbit Premium. Prefer an integrated approach to health and fitness? Apple Fitness+.

Apple Watch vs Fitbit: smartwatch features

Aside from health and fitness monitoring, smartwatches allow us to decouple from our phones, to a degree. They connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, mirror notifications and allow you to accept or reject calls and adjust music playback.

The Apple Watch, Fitbit Sense, and Fitbit Versa watches are fairly matched on this front. But, as in other areas, there are a few differences. The Apple Watch is specifically designed around the company's other devices and services.

So, there's tight integration with your iPhone, Apple Fitness+, Siri, and apps like Notes, Calendar, Maps, and the streaming service Apple Music. If you're a Mac or iPhone user already, you'll be familiar with this seamless approach.

Meanwhile, you can connect your Fitbit watch to most Android smartphones or iPhones. It isn't quite as integrated with the platform, but you can use the built-in mic to talk to Google Assistant or Amazon's Alexa.

Similarly, the onboard tech enables contactless payments with a tap of your watch using Fitbit Pay, the company's Apple Pay alternative. However, this service supports fewer credit cards and banks than Apple Pay.

There's also an app store, including software from Spotify, Uber, and TRX. Apple has the upper hand here, as its App Store has a greater variety of apps and many popular iPhone apps have a companion Apple Watch version.

Winner: Apple. The Apple Watch is designed with your digital life in mind and makes good use of the company's App Store.

Apple Watch vs Fitbit: which is right for you?

If you've been struggling to decide between an Apple Watch or Fitbit, it helps focus on why you want to monitor health and fitness data throughout the day. If you want to get in shape or you're worried about your health, the Apple Watch Series 7 might be best.

The Apple Watch is a core part of the Apple Fitness+ virtual workout platform, and it comes with a range of health-focused features like an ECG monitor and fall detection. Meanwhile, the Fitbit range of smartwatches is better suited for everyday fitness.

The Fitbit Versa 3 and Fitbit Sense are designed to help you understand your fitness levels and, significantly, place each bit of data in context. That's the key benefit to the company's Fitbit Premium subscription, which helps you interpret the watch's data.

As the Apple Watch only works with an iPhone, if you're an Android user or prefer greater flexibility, Fitbit devices win out. The Fitbit watches are also considerably cheaper than an Apple Watch, especially if you use the best Fitbit deals to save on the latest devices.

With these Cyber Monday home gym deals, I've built my ideal indoor training setup. After nearly two years of working out at home, it's time to start appropriately kitting out the space so I can push myself towards new goals without coasting. 

Black Friday may be over for another year, but Cyber Monday is where you'll find some of the most significant savings on workout machines, equipment, and Cyber Monday weights deals before the day is out. That's why it's the perfect time to start investing in your home gym. 

But my focus is still on getting the best value from my purchases. Even if I could afford to splash out, I still want any Cyber Monday home gym deals to be multi-functional, fit in around my home, and have a purpose. 

That's why my wish list focuses on workout essentials, like the Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells, which are on sale for $299 at Best Buy, taking 25% off the regular price right now. These are adaptable for most resistance training exercises and don't take up too much space. 

Excitingly, Bowflex includes a one-year subscription to its JRNY fitness app, with personalized strength training workouts adapted to the SelectTech 552 weights. And I want the SelectTech 5.1S Stowable Bench to make training comfortable and effective. 

Don't miss out on these massive Cyber Monday home gym deals below!

Cyber Monday home gym deals: Quick links 

US Cyber Monday home gym deals: Quick links

• Amazon US: An extensive range of home gym equipment at great prices
• Target: Some of the best Cyber Monday home gym deals available right now
• Dick’s Sporting Goods: Big discounts on some of the top-rated home gym machines
• Walmart: Great discounts on home gym essentials 
• Best Buy: Massive savings on exercise machines and fitness tech

UK Cyber Monday home gym deals: Quick links

• Amazon UK Cyber Monday deals: Home gym kit at great prices
• Argos: Cyber Monday home gym deals on weights, benches, and machines
• John Lewis: Top-rated fitness equipment with up to 20% off right now

Cyber Monday home gym deals

More recently, my main fitness goal has been to stay healthy as the years pass by. Of course, getting stronger and building muscle is a big part of that, but so is keeping tabs on my heart, monitoring my progress, and prioritizing comfort and recovery. 

That's why I'm buying the Withings Body+ smart scales, Nike Metcon 6, and an Apple Watch Series 3 as part of this year's Cyber Monday home gym deals. To keep my cardio training on track, I've added the NordicTrack RW500 rowing machine and a turbo trainer to my basket too. 

If this isn't your dream setup, you can use all the Cyber Monday elliptical deals to save on full-body workouts. Then, build cardio into your routine for less with this year's Cyber Monday treadmill deals. Or, if you're more of a rower, find practical, space-saving options with all the Cyber Monday rowing machine deals as well. 

Cyber Monday fitness deals: US retailer quick links

• Amazon Cyber Monday deals
• Best Buy Cyber Monday sale
• Walmart Cyber Monday deals
• Target Cyber Monday sale
• Dick's Sporting Goods Cyber Monday deals
• Lululemon Cyber Monday sale
• Nike Cyber Monday deals 
• New Balance Cyber Monday sale
• Under Armour Cyber Monday deals
• ASICS Cyber Monday sale
• Wiggle Cyber Monday deals 
• Adidas Cyber Monday deals
• A1 Supplements Cyber Monday sale

Cyber Monday fitness deals: UK retailer quick links

• Amazon Cyber Monday deals
• Very Cyber Monday sale
• Argos Cyber Monday deals
• John Lewis Cyber Monday sale
• New Balance Cyber Monday deals
• Lululemon Cyber Monday sale
• Nike Cyber Monday deals
• Under Armour Cyber Monday sale
• ASICS Cyber Monday deals
• JD Sports Cyber Monday sale
• Mountain Warehouse Cyber Monday deals
• Wiggle Cyber Monday sale
• Holland & Barrett Cyber Monday deal
• Adidas Cyber Monday sale

"There are questions, and it seems like your watch knows all the answers – which is cheating", says the chirpy voiceover behind the advert for the Apple Watch Series 7. 

The latest Apple Watch model was unveiled last week, boasting a raft of fitness features including access to Siri, loads of unique sport profiles boasting advanced sports-specific data, alongside all the usual advanced sleep and health metrics that are common in the best fitness watch models today. Paired with Apple Fitness+, you'll of course be able to get all this data on your smart TV as you work out, too.

The latest much-hyped model is set to premiere "later this fall" in an unusually vague timeslot for Apple. You can visit the store and find out everything you need to know about pre-orders here, but for the gadget-friendly fitness fans, here's three things you need to know about the latest, greatest rival for your coveted wrist space.  

1. It's building on its predecessors

The Apple Watch Series 5 and the Apple Watch Series 6 were huge leaps forward in wrist-mounted technology. The Series 6 introduced the wrist-mounted electrocardiogram, or ECG, and a Pulse Oximeter sensor which works with the Blood oxygen app to gauge your oxygen levels. Apple Watch Series 7 has the same sets of sensors as its predecessor, so all that good stuff is still included in the package.   

2. It comes with new wellness tools

However, even though it's got all the stuff that was great in the Series 6, the Apple Watch Series 7 has enough to shine on its own. The new watch will sport Watch OS 8, a new software system including Apple's new Mindfulness app, which is a larger version of Apple's previous Breathe app. The new software is designed to monitor key health metrics during guided meditations.

Watch OS 8 also comes with Health Sharing, providing your iPhone also has iOS 15. Health Sharing allows you to grant a loved one, or doctor, access to your suite of health metrics. 

Apple says: "Users have full control over which data they share and with whom, whether they’re an aging parent who shares their activity or heart health data with a family member, a partner who chooses to share their fertility window insights, or a person with Parkinson’s disease who wants to share their mobility data with a physical therapist."

3. Sophisticated workout profiles and Siri access

Apple Watch users have been able to ask Siri questions for a while now, but the promotional video showcases the skill in conjunction with individual workout profiles. The bigger screen on the Watch means the beatuiful metrics show up bigger and more vibrant than ever before.

Showcasing how fast your serve is in tennis, or how many waves you caught while surfing, all (presumably) piped into your earpods (or one of the non-Apple branded best workout earbuds entries) will make for a seamless workout experience rather than having to check your phone for the information. 

There's good news for fans of Apple Fitness+ as the company took to its annual Apple Event to unveil some widely-rumored additions to the service, including Pilates classes, guided meditations, and Group Workouts.  

Apple Fitness+ only launched in December 2020, but it's clear that the company aims to make it one of the best fitness apps for iPhone and Apple Watch users. Initially, the subscription-based app was a fitness-focused option, but now it is a viable alternative to popular meditation apps like Headspace and Calm.

From September 27th, you can open the Fitness app on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV and choose from one of nine meditation themes, including Purpose, Kindness, Gratitude, Wisdom, Calm, Focus, and Resilience. Similarly, there's a Meditation for Beginners program to ease you into a regular practice. 

Each guided meditation video can be set to either 5, 10, or 15 minutes. But you don't have to be near a screen to benefit, as you can access audio-only versions of each meditation with Apple's new Mindfulness app for Apple Watch users, which replaces Breathe on devices running watchOS 8.

There are also new low-impact Pilates workouts for subscribers, set to 10, 20, or 30 minutes long. Importantly, you won't need any equipment, other than one of the best yoga mats, to participate, though some classes also incorporate some resistance bands exercises.

One of the most exciting additions is Group Workouts, expected to come to the service later in the fall, alongside these new wellbeing-focused features. This allows you to exercise with friends on Apple Fitness+ using the company's upcoming SharePlay technology.

Inspired by the pandemic-enforced social distancing measures, the feature will mean you can join a Group Workout with up to 32 people from a group chat or FaceTime call. Your workout buddies will appear on-screen, along with some performance metrics, and you can speak to them throughout the session.

Why should you subscribe to Apple Fitness+?

When it first launched, we reviewed Apple Fitness+ and found that it was easily one of the best value options out there. The company has continually added content and other features to keep you active and healthy in the months since.

The glue binding all of these features together is the Apple Watch. The wearable is an essential part of Apple Fitness+, as the wrist-based device monitors your heart rate, movements, and other fitness data to track your performance and offer real-time coaching advice.

The newly-launched guided meditations also come in audio form and download straight to your Apple Watch, so you only need to connect your AirPods or a set of the best workout earbuds to your watch to make use of the sessions.

If you subscribe to Apple Fitness+, then you'll have 11 types of workouts available to you, including yoga, HIIT, walking, and meditation and Pilates. New workouts are added each week from a variety of trainers, so you should be able to find sessions that work for you.

The service is competitively priced, costing $9.99/£9.99 per month or $79.99/£79.99 annually. Comparatively, annual subscriptions to Headspace or Calm cost $69.99 each.

Although they aren't direct competitors to Apple Fitness+, Headspace has also expanded to include mindful exercise sessions and relaxing music. Meanwhile, Calm offers meditations and other content to help you overcome anxiety and sleep better.

Despite the benefits of these services, you might prefer a lower-cost option. Fortunately, you can learn how to meditate with just a little time and a quiet place to sit.

If you've been eagerly awaiting this year's Apple Event, where the company traditionally unveils its latest iPhone, we now know the US tech giant will host the annual event on September 14th. 

In the weeks leading up to the September live stream, there's been a regular succession of leaks, rumors, and speculation about what Apple will unveil. If things pan out as hoped, it could be good news for Apple Fitness+ subscribers.

The service launched in late 2020 and quickly became regarded as one of the best fitness apps, combining data gathered from your Apple Watch with a personalized video workout on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV. 

In the months since, Apple has been busily adding new features to the premium membership, including curated playlists to accompany your sessions. 

Likewise, the Time to Walk feature is a podcast-style 'audio walking experience' to encourage you to get out of the house for some movement, guided by celebrities including Dolly Parton, NBA star Draymond Green, and Paralympian Kurt Fearnley. 

According to a recent Power On newsletter from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is set to release new episodes of Time to Walk for Apple Fitness+ subscribers, as well as a series of guided meditations. This makes sense, as the tech firm has shown a particular interest in wellbeing in recent years. 

If you've been thinking of becoming a subscriber, be sure to check out our Apple Fitness+ review before taking the plunge. Perhaps you'd also like to see how it fares with other fitness subscriptions. Fortunately, we've compared FITT vs Apple Fitness+ to help you decide. 

The company is also widely believed to be launching the latest iteration of its popular smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 7. The Apple Watch Series 6 is one of the most successful wrist-worn gadgets worldwide and integrates tightly with the company's other products, including the Apple Fitness+ service. 

In fact, the Apple Watch is central to the personalized workout subscription. Whenever you stream a coached Apple Fitness+ workout via your smartphone or Apple TV, real-time performance metrics, including heart rate, calories burnt, and duration, are shown on the screen using the watch's built-in sensors. 

According to a set of patent applications filed over the past few years, Apple may also be working on bringing blood pressure measurements, blood sugar monitoring, and skin temperature tracking to the Apple Watch Series 7.

However, a report from Nikkei Asia suggests that the announcement will be followed by a pre-order period, rather than general availability, as the watch manufacturers are struggling to produce a high-quality finished product. 

Similarly, there could be some fitness-focused features coming to the AirPods 3 wireless earbuds, widely expected to launch this fall. There's some speculation that the latest earbuds could come with the same dynamic head detection technology as the AirPods Pro - one of the top picks in our best running earbuds guide. 

Earlier in 2021, 52audio published a series of photos of what were believed to be early prototypes of the AirPods 3 with the more AirPods Pro-style design. Alongside this, integration with Apple Fitness+ might be on the cards, with some industry sources anticipating real-time workout performance and exercise feedback offered directly through the AirPods 3. 

Of course, while the annual event is a time of great excitement for many people, it's also a budget-busting experience as the company's devices can be pricey. After all, there's nothing wrong with simply grabbing a set of the best adjustable dumbbells and learning how to deadlift if you want to stay in shape for less. 

Beats Powerbeats Pro are among the best workout earbuds and best running headphones we've ever tried. They're noise-cancelling, allowing you to forget about everything except your workout, they're secure thanks to the on-ear hooks and they're packing Beats' signature bassy sound. 

In our review, we said: "For workouts, immersive sound and watching video, there’s nothing better. The true wireless freedom while exercising is exhilarating, they’ll never fall out and the sound is top-notch. If you’re after a solid pair of gym headphones, make the investment - these are the best in class."

Right now, you can get a tremendous Beats Powerbeats Pro deal at Best Buy. You can save $50 on the price of the headphones and get a free six-month subscriptions for Apple Music, worth $60. In total, you're getting a $110 discount. Check out the deal below:

Get the Beats Powerbeats Pro deal below: 

Apple Music is a terrific streaming service that works well with other top-flight fitness tech such as the Apple Watch Series 6. AM includes "spacial audio", a multi-dimensional listening experience with selected tracks that make full use of Beats' incredible audio quality. 

Combined with the headphones' noise-cancelling quality and snug fit, you're getting an immersive experience whether you're using them in the gym, powering the tunes to hit your next PB, or watching a video on your phone during your commute. And, of course, you can control it all on your Powerbeats Pro with just a touch of a button. 

Apple Fitness+ is already huge, but it's about to get even better - with new playlist-focused workouts from artists such as Lady Gaga and JLo.

The Artist Spotlight series, where the entire playlist for a workout is dedicated to a single music artist, starts today - with each Monday dedicated to a new music star.

If you're looking for one of the best fitness apps, Apple Fitness+, which is connected to the Apple watch, gives you access to a wide range of workouts - that can be streamed to an iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV.

Another update for Apple Fitness+ includes new episodes of Time to Walk, an audio experience on the Apple Watch. The new episodes will include famous voices - including boxing and two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and actor and presenter Stephen Fry.

Music is already a major part of Apple Fitness+, thanks to their existing deals for iTunes, but the Spotlight series, will dedicate playlists for workouts to a single music artist every week -  starting with Alicia Keys, Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban, and Lady Gaga. 

Every Monday for four weeks, new workouts featuring each artist will be available for workouts include Dance, HIIT, Strength and Yoga. We can't wait to get sweaty to a JLo playlist!

Zane Lowe, Apple Music’s global creative director said about the new series:  “There’s no better way to supercharge a workout than with the musicians who are a part of the Apple Fitness+ Artist Spotlight series — from Lady Gaga’s signature dance-floor anthems and Jennifer Lopez’s energetic global smashes, to Keith Urban’s pop-tinged country hits and Alicia Keys’ sophisticated neo-soul. 

"Apple Music is also taking inspiration from these workouts and creating our own one-of-a-kind playlists dedicated to each of these incredible artists.”

The Time to Walk update means that for those of you who love to pull on your best shoes for walking you'll have more company and inspiration as you walk, in the form of famous faces and voices. 

Time to Walk is already used by many Apple watch users, while walking is one of the most popular workouts on Apple Fitness+, so this new update is a big one. 

Starting from today regular walkers can listen to actress Gina Rodriguez, from the television series Jane the Virgin. On the recording, Gina talks about learning resilience from her dad and how she built confidence in everything from her body image to feeling part of a community.

Supermodel Naomi Campbell, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, a practising neurosurgeon and CNN’s chief medical correspondent, plus Joan Benoit Samuelson, gold medalist in the first-ever women’s Olympic marathon, also join as new voices on Time to Walk.

The Apple Watch has just had an update - and we're loving how much they're focussing on being more mindful.

In the update - watchOS 8, the Breathe app will become the Mindfulness app - and will feature an enhanced breathing experience, plus a new session type called Reflect.

Breathe work and meditation is becoming more important in all our lives and some of the best fitness watches are recognizing this. 

The new Mindfulness app means that Apple Watch users can take 5 or 10 minutes out of their day to breathe, reflect or mediate. 

The new app includes a new feature called Reflect, which offers a mindful intention to focus on for as little as one minute  - and can be done anywhere and at any time. Perfect for a stressful commute or now that some of us are back in the office.

We love how each Reflect session welcomes the user with a unique, thoughtful notion, like 'Recall a time recently when you felt a sense of calm. Bring that feeling into this moment,' - as well as gratitude prompts -  they're a great way to switch your thinking and reframe any negative thoughts.

Both the Breathe and Reflect experiences, which feature new animations, offer tips to help you get more from each session - so you'll be a mindful expert in no time.

If you're looking to calm down your workout routines too, the update also offers two new workout types, Tai Chi and Pilates. Supported by custom-built heart rate and motion algorithms they will also provide you with accurate metrics to track your progress. If you're looking for more fitness apps -  check out our guide to the latest best fitness apps.

Another update for the Apple Watch includes your sleeping respiratory rate. The watch already had sleep tracking, but this function will give you more insight into your overall wellness when you're in bed. Your sleep respiratory rate is the number of breaths you take per minute as you're snoozing - and can indicate whether you are coming down with something or if you need to take a day to rest.

While if you are having trouble focusing on a task, you can also turn a new function called Focus on - it will stop all notifications, while helping you reduce distraction and be in the moment.

The Apple Watch Series 6 is absolutely one of the best fitness watch entries on the market right now. With loads of incredible features including a stress-measuring electrocardiogram, newly advanced sleep tracking, the ability to monitor our blood oxygen levels, and it can even detect if you've been washing your hands for long enough – an essential feature in this post-COVID-19 world. 

On top of that, it's got all the usual fantastic features of the Apple Watch, including all the apps, workouts, activity tracking, notification functions and loads more.

The Apple Watch Series 6 is Apple's latest and best fitness tracker, and it's very rare for current-gen devices to receive any discount at all. However, Best Buy are slashing $50 off the price of an all-new Apple Watch Series 6. Check it out below:   

Apple Watch Series 6: Get the Best Buy deal here

Apple Watch Series 6: Why get this deal?

This Watch is Apple's most advanced yet. The GPS model lets you take calls, reply to texts, emails and receive notifications on your wrist like any good smartwatch, but the real star is the health tracking. 

Measure your blood oxygen with an all-new sensor and app, and you can check your heart rhythm with the built-in electrocardiogram. Track your daily activity on Apple Watch and see your trends in the Fitness app on iPhone

The Watch packs serious hardware, with an Always-On Retina display which is 2.5x brighter outdoors when your wrist is down. It's up to 20% faster than Series 5, with 5GHz Wi-Fi and U1 Ultra Wideband chip. 

The watch is so intelligent, it can detect if you’ve taken a hard fall, then automatically call emergency services for you. The new WatchOS 7 is the icing on the cake, offering improved sleep tracking, cycling directions, updates to Siri, and new customizable watch faces.

Apple Watch Series 6 deal: Cheaper option

The Amazfit GTS 2e could be just the ticket if you’re on the hunt for the best fitness watch with lots of health and sports features but don’t want to pay a premium for the privilege. It’s smaller than the Amazfit GTS 2 from manufacturer Huami and has a less impressive specification, but the real win is its price tag - just £119 / $139.99.

For that relatively small outlay the Amazfit GTS 2e comes with a raft of health monitoring functions including everyday essentials such as heart rate and sleep monitoring. On top of that, it also packs in more advanced tools including blood oxygen saturation analysis and stress monitoring.

Indeed, if you’re after a smartwatch that can cover a variety of fitness tracking needs the Amazfit GTS 2e covers most bases, with up to 90 different physical and workout activities catered for. Use it in tandem with the supporting Zepp app and you can track progress, set goals and collate results over days, weeks and months.

Take a quick glance at it and the Amazfit GTS 2e could easily pass for an Apple Watch, but comes at a fraction of the price while still being loaded with those vital health and smartwatch features. Granted, you can’t make contactless payments using NFC (near-field communication) or answer calls via Bluetooth like more expensive rivals, but the Amazfit GTS 2e is still perfectly serviceable for most needs.

Amazfit GTS 2e: Price & features

We tested the Amazfit GTS 2e, which is available now and costs £119 / $139.99. The device boasts a quality aluminium body, built-in GPS, a cracking AMOLED display, great battery life plus plenty of tracking features. If you’re looking to monitor your health and fitness no matter what sort of exercise or sporting interest you indulge in then the Amazfit GTS 2e represents excellent value.

Amazfit GTS 2e: Look and feel

Considering its price point, which is certainly cheap compared to rivals such as the Fitbit Versa 3 and Apple Watch SE, the look and feel of the Amazfit GTS 2e review is one of quality. The aluminium alloy body is lightweight but solid, with a matt black finish topped with a 1.65” HD AMOLED display. 

There’s a button on the right-hand side of the case that can be pushed if you want to move from the main display screen to the widget area, and back again. The display is really eye catching and boasts a resolution of 348 x 442 pixels (341PPI), which is protected by a 2.5D tempered glass lens. The overall effect this delivers gives an expansive feel to the display.

It’s also possible to choose different watch faces, which can be changed from the default one, a faux analogue affair, by downloading one of several others via the app. Depending on your choice the effect is impressive to say the least because those colours really pop. The positive vibe continues with the silicon strap too, which is a smooth-in-feel effort that has a colour matched alloy buckle. Our example of the Amazfit GTS 2e was black, but it is also available in green and purple.

Usefully, the strap can be unclipped using tiny sliders on the underside for cleaning or changing for something else. While it doesn’t feel expensive the strap is surprisingly durable and can be easily wiped down after a workout.

Amazfit GTS 2e: Fitness features

Any smartwatch-cum-fitness tracker worth its purchase price needs to pack a reasonable compliment of fitness features. And, in that respect, the Amazfit GTS 2e review does not disappoint. 

If you start with the functions present on the device itself there are plenty to get started with, including a small mountain of sport modes that cover all of the obvious exercise areas such as Outdoor running, Walking and Outdoor Cycling but extend to Dance, Archery and even Equestrian. Starting and stopping your selected mode before, during and after your workout is easy while we rather liked the offline voice controls for managing our workouts too.

The list is comprehensive to say the least and the modes worked nicely enough for us during daily runs and free weights sessions. The menus are quite intuitive too and it’s easy to drill further down into each one once you get the hang of it. 

The built-in GPS works well enough and results seemed generally pretty accurate, especially if you’re more of a casual fitness type. More serious athletes might find some of the features a little to thin on real data. As an example, the PAI (or personal activity intelligence score), which pins an age to your fitness level, seems like a good idea but we were never quite sure just how accurate it was.

Amazfit GTS 2e: Smartwatch features

The Amazfit GTS 2e works just fine as a smartwatch and can be nicely customized to suit your needs and tastes. If you get bored with the default face then, as mentioned earlier it’s both quick and easy to download others with a quick dip into the app. The range of faces is a mixed bag, but there’s something for most tastes.

Prior to that, however, you’ll need to pick your way through the initial setup. After charging the watch using the magnetic dock that hooks onto the back of the case and installing the Amazfit Zepp app on your smartphone you’ll want to register for an account. If you already have one with Amazfit then that does the same job. We had a little trouble after scanning the QR code and completing the firmware update but once we’d got past that it was plain sailing.

Exploring the device for the first time it appeared there are a couple of omissions though. While it is possible to receive app notifications and incoming call alerts you aren’t able to answer incoming phone calls. The Amazfit GTS 2e has Bluetooth, which it uses to best effect when syncing data with the Zepp app, but you won't be able to make contactless payments using NFC either. Similarly, you’ll need to sync the device with your phone in order to play your music. There’s a widget for controlling your tunes on the Amazfit GTS 2e, but the music itself stays on your smartphone.

Nevertheless, there are plenty of smartwatch highlights. We grew to love the offline voice controls on the Amazfit GTS 2e. Spend a moment or two setting this up in the watch settings and you can carry out regular tasks using your voice instead of pressing or tapping anything. While the feature is undeniably handy during everyday use it really comes into its own when you start using the Amazfit GTS 2e for fitness sessions. Combined with impressive functionality including the ability to monitor blood oxygen saturation and also your stress levels the Amazfit GTS 2e makes you feel like you’re wearing a much more premium device than it actually is.

Amazfit GTS 2e: Connectivity

The Amazfit GTS 2e comes with built in GPS and Bluetooth, but no Wi-Fi. When you first unbox the device you’ll be prompted to scan the QR code that comes supplied. Using this you can pair the Amazfit GTS 2e to your smartphone. This allows you to manage all of your data much more extensively than on the device itself.

As an example, we would normally sync after getting out of bed in the morning to get an update on how our sleep patterns were faring. We’d then sync again after a run later in the afternoon or early evening, which updated calories burned and other performance-based figures. 

Overall, we found the stats informative and they also appeared pretty accurate. Aside from a few issues we had with the software update on the initial setup we also found that occasionally the sync feature wouldn’t complete. However, the more we got the feel of the device and app the less this all but disappeared, suggesting it was our error rather than that of the Amazfit GTS 2e.

Amazfit GTS 2e: Battery life

The Amazfit GTS 2e comes with a USB cord and magnetic dock that clips onto the back of the case into so it’s possible to charge it up while you’re working on your laptop. A 50% charge took about an hour, with a 100% recharge unsurprisingly taking about double that time. This is a definite bonus, especially if you tire of having to charge up devices and accessories on a seemingly daily basis.

Given the level of features and functionality on offer from the Amazfit GTS 2e, and its delicious colour screen, we were initially expecting battery life to be less than impressive. However, the device is just the opposite with the 246 mAh battery proving to be fantastic, especially considering it’s armed with GPS and a plethora of user functions.

Even wearing it all the time and using many of the different modes we found we could pretty much forget about charging up the Amazfit GTS 2e for days at a time. The manufacturers suggest it’ll keep going for a couple of weeks in smartwatch mode and we found no reason to disagree. If you’re just using the basic watch features then add another week to that, no problem.

Amazfit GTS 2e: Verdict

The Amazfit GTS 2e is an impressive proposition that leaves a generally positive impression. There’s no doubting the value for money aspect of the Amazfit GTS 2e, with its deceptively premium-looking design. Add on the set of features and functions, most of which can be tweaked and fine-tuned to suit your own preferences and you’ve got a device that performs as well as it looks.

It’s easy to overlook the Amazfit GTS 2e’s shortcomings, such as the inability to handle contactless payments, simply because it does such a good job in other areas. The battery life is brilliant, it’s generally very easy to operate especially if you’re working out and the data it syncs to the app can be used to build up a decent picture of your overall health, fitness and wellbeing. 

Some of this data might admittedly not be quite as precise as the rivals we mention below, but if you’re after an affordable first, or perhaps back up smartwatch-meets-fitness tracking device then the Amazfit GTS 2e makes a great place to start.

Also consider

If the Amazfit GTS 2e still seems too expensive, Amazfit does also have budget devices in the GTS2 Mini or Bip U Pro. If you like what you see here but want a beefier specification then Amazfit also has the GTR 2 and GTS 2 models, which fill in any blanks left by the budget limitations of the Amazfit GTS 2e.

Obviously you’ll need to spend more to get more, so if you're doing that and want a more recognised brand then the Fitbit Versa 3 is one to consider. 

Enjoying a similarly lofty profile and packed with high-end features is the Apple Watch SE, but it’s also a more expensive option - although cheaper than the Apple Watch 5 and 6.

Finally, if you don't need a full-on fitness watch, you could consider a smart band instead - these are generally smaller and cheaper. Take a look at our best fitness tracker guide (or our pick of the best Fitbits) to get a better idea of what’s going to be most suitable if your budget is a little tight.

When it comes to the best workout apps, many people find themselves choosing weighing up the pros and cons of Fiit vs Apple Fitness+.

They're two of the leading options on the market which have exploded in popularity thanks to lockdowns and gym closures the world over forcing people to exercise at home. But even before coronavirus came into our lives, home workout apps were increasingly popular, offering convenience and value for money.

Fiit launched in early 2018 and quickly became one of the most popular apps around, thanks to its mix of classes, A-list trainers and options for all abilities.

It was only a matter of time before Apple got in on the action, with Apple Fitness+ launching in December 2020.

As a personal trainer, I've tried and tested both apps. Below I outline the pros and cons of Fiit vs Apple Fitness+ from various aspects, to help you decide which app is best for you.

RANGE OF WORKOUTS

Both platforms over a range of different classes aimed at everyone from beginners through advanced. Plus, both offer classes at varying lengths so whether you’re strapped for time, or have longer to play with, there’s no excuse not to get a workout in!

Fiit's workouts are split into three main categories. These are:

• Cardio
• Strength
• Rebalance

The Cardio classes are high intensity aimed at burning fat, toning muscle and building stamina, whilst Strength workouts use a combination of bodyweight and equipment moves to build and sculpt muscle. A set of the best adjustable dumbbells and/or resistance bands can be handy for these.

Finally, Rebalance improves flexibility; think yoga flow, Pilates, mobility and breath work. 

There’s a full daily schedule of workouts, and these are updated regularly to keep things fresh.

When it comes to Apple Fitness+, workouts fit into one of seven categories:

• HIIT
• Yoga
• Strength
• Core
• Rowing
• Cycling
• Treadmill

There’s also a number of Mindful Cool Downs for post-workout, as well as a range of workouts that teach the basics of each category workout, covering points such as good technique and form to avoid injury.

Workouts that require large items of equipment (i.e. cycling, rowing and treadmill) may not suit those who don’t have access to rowing machines, exercise bikes and treadmills. However, these types of workouts are great for gym goers, making Apple Fitness+ a useful resource away from home too.

Plus, just like Fiit, the workouts on Apple Fitness+ are updated regularly, and instructors bring in new moves and routines to keep things fresh.

FITNESS INSTRUCTORS

Both platforms work with some of the best instructors in the industry. Each instructor is a specialist in their particular field. 

Fiit has some big Instagram starts including the likes of Head of Fitness Gede Foster (pictured above), leading trainer Lawrence Price and breath expert Richie Norton. Love Island UK fans will also recognize series three contestant and fitness star Gabby Allen in the Cardio and Strength sessions.

Fiit also features trainers who specialize in pre-and post-natal exercise too.

Apple Fitness+ works with a diverse range of US and UK based personal trainers including yoga expert Jessica Skye and HIIT trainer Kim Ngo.

They also work with Molly Fox, an ex Jane Fonda workout instructor who advocates strength at any age.

As you'd expect from Apple, all trainers are bubbly, charismatic and relatable, and often bop along to the music in the background.

What’s great about Apple Fitness+ workouts is that trainers appear in each others’ workouts; one usually offering an easier alternative to a specific move and another often providing a harder version, so you can really challenge yourself.

• Already an Apple user? Claim your free Apple Fitness+ trial

FITNESS TRACKING

Both platforms allow you to track various metrics including your heart rate and calories burned during a workout. 

Fiit is great in the sense that it’s compatible with more than 25 leading fitness devices including several of the best fitness trackers, such as Fitbit, Samsung Watch, MyZone and yes, Apple Watch.

This allows users to track their progress as well as join leaderboards to really up the competition. Fiit also allows users to plan private workout classes with friends. These also come with leaderboards so there’s no chance you’ll go too easy!

Meanwhile, whilst the fitness tracking is exceptional on Apple Fitness+, you do need an Apple Watch Series 3 or above to use it - a key consideration to bear in mind.

Apple Fitness pairs with the Apple Watch, and metrics on the infamous Apple Rings are shown on-screen as you go - whether you're working out on your iPhone, iPad or Apple TV. 

USER EXPERIENCE

There’s no denying that both Fiit and Apple Fitness+ offer smooth, seamless apps which allow users to easily select their workouts. There really is no faulting either of these when it comes to ease of use.

If you want a designated workout plan, Fiit can provide you with this. You can select a two, four, six or 10-week plan based on your personal fitness goals. Options include things like 

Whilst Apple Fitness+ doesn’t offer tailored exercise plans like this, it does recommend workouts based on your previous choices, as well as recommending trainers you might like. You can also narrow down your selection choices by music. Feel like working out to a rock playlist? Now you can!

In terms of classes, both platforms film the on-demand sessions in sleek studios. The Fiit studio has somewhat of a nightclub vibe - all dark settings punctuated with bright lights - whilst Apple Fitness+ workouts are filmed in various studios, depending on the workout. For example, the HIIT classes for example are filmed in a gymnasium reminiscent of a school gym hall, complete with wooden floors and apparatus such as wall bars.

VALUE FOR MONEY

Both workout platforms work out far cheaper than a gym membership, and you’re given unlimited access to a multitude of workouts.

At £120*, a yearly subscription offers the best value for Fiit, working out at £10 a month. Alternatively you can pay on a monthly basis, which costs £20 a month. Note that the price converts to local currency for users outside of the UK at the point of checkout.

In comparison, Apple Fitness+ is surprisingly cheap: a year’s subscription costs $79.99/£79.99, whilst it's $9.99/£9.99 to pay monthly.

Both services also offer free trials, with Apple's offer being slightly more generous - provided you're in (or willing to join) the Apple club, of course. Existing Apple Watch users can get one month free, whilst new Apple Watch purchases come with three months' free access. Meanwhile, Fiit offers a 14-day free trial to all.

FIIT VS APPLE FITNESS+: VERDICT

It's hard to pick a winner in the Fiit vs Apple Fitness+ battle, with both offering first-rate platforms that are easy to use and cater to all abilities.

Workouts are varied on both, however the fact that Apple Fitness+ provides machine based-workouts as an alternative to mat classes is a plus in our eyes - and something that will be particularly welcome one gyms reopen.

Whilst both allow you to track your progress, anyone working on a tracker other than the Apple Watch won't be able to use Apple Fitness+. This will generally be the key determining factor of whether you choose Apple Fitness+ over Fiit - but if anything's going to convert you to Apple Watch, then this is it.

However, if you're not ready or willing to make that kind of investment, then Fiit could prove the more cost-effective option for you.

Apple Watch 6 has been around since September, and it's a monster hit. The Watch - easily one of the best fitness watches on the market - boasts advanced sleep tracking, the ability to track our blood oxygen levels and can even detect if you've been washing your hands for long enough (essential in this post-COVID-19 world). 

Understandably as it's a brand new product, there's relatively few cut-price deals on offer right now. However, in a deal exclusive to Best Buy, the brand new Apple Watch Series 6 is being bundled with six months of Apple's new fitness service, Apple Fitness+, saving you up to $60. 

Apple Fitness+ is a five-star home workout platform that's worth the hype, and syncs with your watch to display your vitals on-screen during live or archived workouts. As we're all getting fit over lockdown, it really is a first-rate service for Apple Watch owners existing and new. Check out the deal in full below:

Why get an Apple Watch Series 6?

This Watch is Apple's most advanced yet. The GPS model lets you take calls, reply to texts, emails and receive notifications on your wrist like any good smartwatch, but the real star is the health tracking. 

Measure your blood oxygen with an all-new sensor and app, and you can check your heart rhythm with the built-in electrocardiogram. Track your daily activity on Apple Watch and see your trends in the Fitness app on iPhone

The Watch packs serious hardware, with an Always-On Retina display which is 2.5x brighter outdoors when your wrist is down. It's up to 20% faster than Series 5, with 5GHz Wi-Fi and U1 Ultra Wideband chip. 

The watch is so intelligent, it can detect if you’ve taken a hard fall, then automatically call emergency services for you. The new WatchOS 7 is the icing on the cake, offering improved sleep tracking, cycling directions, updates to Siri, and new customizable watch faces.

What is Apple Fitness+?

Best Buy's exclusive deal allows you to get into Apple Fitness+ on the ground floor. A service offered by Apple to take to fight to rivals like Peloton, digital workouts are beamed to your Apple device and synced to your watch, allowing you to accurately track how well you're following along. You'll be able to see your Apple Watch's stats live in the corner of the screen as you perform the workout. 

Over time, Apple Fitness+ will tailor workouts to your personal preferences and provide unique goals for you based on your workout history, offering you access to its whole library of digital classes with new workouts appearing each week.

Ordinarily, Apple Fitness+ costs $9.99 per month or $79.99 for the year, but this awesome Best Buy deal saves you up to $60 by gifting six months absolutely free. 

Looking for something a little less pricey to chart your health and fitness journey? Check out today's best cheap fitness tracker deals and Fitbit deals.

The iPhone-friendly workout platform Apple Fitness+ certainly seems like an excellent option for at-home workouts. There are high-intensity sessions, yoga classes, and weightlifting routines. 

And as an avid exerciser and tech enthusiast, I'm always hunting for the best workout apps to combine these two hobbies. My aim is to streamline my workout routine, find new ways to stay fit, and have fun. 

So, when I came across Apple Fitness+, I knew I had to put it through its paces. Rather than simply reviewing the service, I wanted to challenge myself: could Apple's exercise app replace my current workout routine? 

What is Apple Fitness+?

Apple Fitness+ is a virtual workout platform launched by Apple in December 2020. It lives inside the iPhone's Fitness app and has many activities, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), dance, yoga, strength workouts, and Pilates.

You can follow along to most of the sessions using the workout video, but there's also a series of audio sessions for when you're out walking or running with a set of workout earbuds on and can't look at the screen. 

Initially, you needed also to own an Apple Watch to use the service, but Apple has since opened it up to anyone with an iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV. However, if you have one of the company's smartwatches, your health stats, like heart rate and calories burned, will also show on the screen. 

You'll need to take out a monthly subscription, which costs $9.99. Whether this is good value depends on how you like to exercise (as a gym membership will set you back far more), but the cost is roughly in line with other workout apps like Fiit or Centr.  

Apple Fitness+ seemed a good fit as I exercise six days a week. Primarily, I do yoga, go running, and practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), but I also like variety to keep my workouts interesting. Unfortunately, this is where I bumped into a problem. 

The trainers and production are incredible

I'll put it bluntly: I've never attended virtual workout classes as downright impressive as the Apple Fitness+ sessions. The sets are spacious, the workouts gorgeously filmed, and the diverse array of trainers are encouraging and expert in their instruction.

It feels entirely professional—a far cry from many (though not all) YouTube trainers. If you've used a Peloton Bike before, the quality may not surprise you, but you'll still be impressed at how seamlessly Fitness+ integrates with your other Apple devices. 

I always trained with an Apple Watch on my wrist, so I could see the real-time data on the screen, which is clearly designed to motivate you to get the most from your workouts. And I could see the data in the Fitness app alongside other activities from other apps, which was a huge upside.

This high-quality experience made exercising a joy, making me excited to either find new trainers or get further acquainted with those whose classes I enjoyed. But it did highlight another possible sticking point for anyone considering Fitness+ over the competition. 

There are a limited number of exercises on the app

While some of my workouts are available on Apple Fitness+, something like BJJ isn't. This isn't surprising, as it's a more technical practice, but it does hamper my goal to replace all my workouts with the app.

The lack of BJJ seems reasonable, but I was surprised how many other everyday activities aren't there either. There are no swimming courses, jump rope sessions, or advanced weightlifting routines. 

The counterargument is that Apple has prioritized workouts that people can do at home—but then it's still hard to explain the inclusion of the rowing, treadmill, and cycling classes when you'd need expensive equipment like one of the best rowing machines or an exercise bike.

Sure, some people have those machines in their homes, but as a city dweller, I need to hit a gym to use that equipment. But you know what? It's fine; I can adapt my routine. 

It's strange Apple Fitness+ doesn't have a Mac app

I'm lucky to have an Apple Watch, iPhone, Apple TV, and iPad. When I'm ready to exercise with Fitness+, I can use all the above devices. If I want a big-screen experience, I can use the Apple TV app or take my iPad while away from the house. 

But you know what I can't use? My MacBook laptop. It simply isn't supported. Considering how much Apple Fitness+ requires you to be entirely inside the company's device ecosystem, it seems strange to exclude its popular computers.

My iPhone and iPad were good enough to get the workouts started. But given that you can even access alternatives like Centr, Alo Moves, and Fiit through your regular browser, the lack of web or laptop support could be a dealbreaker for some. 

The app is perfect for trying new workouts

Keeping your workouts varied can be a great way to stay motivated; it's how I keep focused and driven. This is a considerable strength of Apple Fitness+. All it takes is a few taps, and you can quickly hop on a class you've never tried before. 

Before the new wave of workout apps, if you wanted to do this in person, you'd have to find a studio, plan a time to go and pay in advance. Now, you can try one for a few minutes to see if it's right for you and quickly switch if you're in the mood for something else. 

Although I can't use one at home, I've always wanted to learn how to use a rowing machine. It means going to the gym, but without a trainer to help, I've never really engaged with the technique or a specific routine beyond thinking, "Okay, let's row for a bit."

I gave it a go and found that the app's trainers guided me through my first sessions in a structured and professional way to perfect my rowing machine form, engage my core, and work my whole body. This was true every time I tried something new. 

Apple Fitness+ is great for beginners but not for progression

I've been practicing yoga, undertaking strength training, running, and doing HIIT workouts for years—and I found these classes on the app didn't push me hard enough or were as targeted as I needed.

To their credit, there are usually more advanced moves demonstrated by other trainers on the screen. But this isn't a unique feature, though, as many experienced YouTube trainers, like Juice & Toya, also show modifications or more advanced options. 

However, the real problem is that progress isn't built into Apple Fitness+ as a platform. There are some goal-orientated collections, like Run Your First 10K, but a lot of what's on the app are just, well, classes.

Generally, I find that once you get over the initial beginner gains in strength and fitness, the only way to keep improving is to have specific and target progression plans based on SMART fitness goals and use the progressive overload training technique. 

This means setting an achievable but challenging target, giving yourself a deadline, logging data, and measuring your results. Apple Fitness+ can't really help you here, but that's part of the compromise when developing a platform designed to have the broadest appeal.

The filtering options need huge improvement

Currently, the options for filtering classes on Apple Fitness+ are dire. You can select a trainer, time, or background music, but that's it. This means your ability to focus on a body part or select an intensity is borderline non-existent.

It also means it's hard to customize your workouts to your needs. I live in an apartment, so I need HIIT classes without loads of jumping (so I don't disturb my neighbors). But there's no quick way to find a low-impact session. 

Likewise, I often want to stretch my chest and lower back as part of an active recovery workout during a yoga class, but I can only find that by scrolling for ages and reading each session's description. 

This seems relatively easy to address, but it's also a prevalent problem with many virtual workout apps. For instance, we found the same filtering issues during our Echelon Smart Rower review. 

But it can be done. Chris Hemsworth's workout app, Centr, has excellent filtering, where you can choose classes by a trainer, time, target area, workout type, and even the equipment you have at home. 

Did Apple Fitness+ replace my whole workout routine?

Sadly Apple Fitness+ couldn't replace my existing training plan, but that doesn't mean it isn't still an excellent option for anyone with an iPhone or Apple Watch. The seamless integration and convenience make it easier to create a regular habit. 

Unlike some similar apps, including Peloton, you don't need much equipment, as most sessions use your body weight alone or need a few accessories like dumbbells, kettlebells, or a yoga block. 

It's well-suited to beginners, too, with accessible workouts that aren't designed for fitness enthusiasts but help you get some movement in your day without heading to the gym. 

This is also its biggest drawback; the app is fun in short bursts for anyone further into their fitness journey, but it can't replace specialist classes or personalized trainer-designed progression plans. 

Still, it's much safer than using ChatGPT to create a workout plan, as you know that experts have designed and vetted the routine. But, for now, I'll need to keep searching for that perfect blend of fitness and technology. 

Smartwatches are advancing and improving at such a rate it’s difficult to keep up. Many are now offering increasingly in-depth ways to monitor your health, with all kinds of new and innovative sensors and data-tracking. 

Here, we look at two of the biggest hitters in the smartwatch market and often rated as some of the best running watches. We'll consider what they offer specifically in terms of helping you achieve your health and fitness goals, a sector that is particularly popular.

The Apple Watch Series 6 is the latest and most up-to-date version of the watch that sold 31 million units in 2019, with a focus on a range of new, cutting-edge features that track various health variables. It’s designed to sync with Apple iPhones only, and will not work with Android. Prices start at $399 / £379.

• Apple Fitness+: a five-star home workout platform that's worth the hype

Meanwhile, the Sense smartwatch - billed by many as the best Fitbit on the market - is built with similar functions and aimed at the same market, and is compatible with Android and iPhones. It comes in slightly cheaper than the Series 6 at $330 / £299 (FYI, we monitor prices daily to find the best Fitbit Sense deals).

They are both smartwatches rather than sports watches, and feature touchscreens, downloadable apps and customisable watch faces.

Both are at the forefront of health tracking, with plenty of similar features on each. But which is best for those looking to take a deep dive into their health and fitness data?

Apple Watch Series 6 vs Fitbit Sense: health tracking

Both the Apple Watch Series 6 and the Fitbit Sense offer a wide range of health-based tracking features that provide insights and data on everything from sleep to mindfulness. 

If you’re looking for more data regarding your general health, both will do a superb job of providing all kinds of statistics and analysis, from examining your heart rate and rhythms to monitoring your blood oxygen levels.

Apple Watch Series 6 vs Fitbit Sense: sleep tracking

Sleep is becoming an increasingly popular activity to track, and smartwatches are offering more advanced ways to record data while you rest.

Apple’s watch offers basic sleep tracking functions by simply recording how long you slept for, and any periods you woke during the night. There’s no in-depth analysis of sleep patterns. Unlike with Fitbit, sleep tracking is not something Apple is actively pushing.

Fitbit, meanwhile, is more focused on providing users with sleep-tracking data. The Sense will monitor your sleep stages, heart rate, duration and Estimated Oxygen Variation (explained below) throughout the night to provide you with an overall sleep score. 

Both the Apple Watch series 6 and the Fitbit Sense are equipped with SpO2 sensors. This tracks the amount of oxygen in your blood throughout the day and night by shining LEDs on your wrist to analyse the colour of your blood, doing a similar job to the finger sensor you see health professionals use. The healthy range is usually 95%-100%. 

The Sense uses the data in its Estimate Oxygen Variation feature to alert you to any risk factors of possible underlying health risks.

Apple Watch Series 6 vs Fitbit Sense: heart-rate tracking & ECG

Both smartwatches feature in-built heart-rate tracking via wrist sensors that record your heartbeat 24/7 and during sports activities. However, both now include technologically advanced ECG monitors. 

This is a big plus for those who are worried about their heart rate or suffer atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeats), a condition that effects 33.5 million people across the world.

Both watches will alert you if your heart rate goes too high or low while resting by detecting if it goes outside of certain thresholds. This is especially useful for those who suffer from heart conditions such as bradycardia (heart rate is too slow) or tachycardia (heart rate is too fast).

Apple Watch Series 6 vs Fitbit Sense: fitness tracking

Both watches offer adequate fitness tracking of activities such as running or cycling. However, neither can compete with running-specific watches that offer deeper activity analysis and expansive metrics.

The Apple Watch Series 6 will satisfy most casual runners in terms of tracking and data. It moved away from steps in favour of its Move rings, which are calculated based on calories burned. Data such as step count, VO2 Max, exercise, stand time, etc is found in the Apple Fitness app, whereas health data is found in Apple Health. It also now includes an altimeter for more accurate elevation readings during activities. Battery life is not great when tracking activities, either – it should just about manage to record a marathon, but that’s about it, which is nowhere near as long as dedicated running watches.

The Fitbit Sense, like Fitbit’s other smartwatches, features in-built GPS to track all activities. It records runs, bike rides, swimming and workouts, and provide a Cardio Fitness Level and Score so you can compare how you are faring in your fitness training. 

Apple Watch Series 6 vs Fitbit Sense: stress management

This is where the Fitbit edges ahead of the Apple Watch. 

Many people are experiencing higher than normal stress levels, and to help track that, Fitbit has built in a new EDA sensor in the Sense. Place your hand over the device and it will measure small variations in your skin’s sweat levels. This is then combined with your heart rate, sleep and activity data to provide a Stress Management Score. If this score gets too high, the watch will recommend breathing exercises or mindfulness programs via the Fitbit Premium membership.

The Series 6 does not offer any sort of similar stress management features, aside from a breathing app.

Apple Watch Series 6 vs Fitbit Sense: verdict

Both are advanced watches in terms of how deeply they track your health data and what they offer to help manage any anomalies. Anyone looking to gain extra insight into their health status will be satisfied with either watch. 

But the Fitbit Sense edges ahead of the Apple Series 6 due largely to the advanced sleep tracking features, the more thorough SpO2 monitoring and impressive stress-level tracking feature. 

The Apple Watch Series 6 is here. Boasting a wealth of new features (most of them health and fitness related), the latest iteration of the best-selling smartwatch is already a monster hit. 

It features a similar design to many of its predecessors (and copycats like the Oppo Watch, with its curved-corner pebble shape). It's got loads of new colours and designs to choose from, from camouflage green to a snappy little red number, and a new braided band design. 

But the real star of the show is the smorgasbord of new health metrics available on the watch, designed to supercharge your workout and improve your well-being. Plus it's fully compatible with Apple Fitness+, Apple's all-new workout platform that's worth the hype.

• Order your Apple Watch Series 6 here in the US
• ...And here in the UK

Apple Watch Series 6: The best prices and deals available right now

The Watch can do all the usual tricks that landed the Apple Watch Series 5 at the top of our best fitness watch list, with heart rate detection and calorie burning all present and correct. 

However, the Apple Watch Series 6 will sport WatchOs7, the new operating system that offers a sleep tracking feature. WatchOs7 also automatically detects when you're washing your hands and for how long, which will be extremely helpful in this post-pandemic world. 

The Watch can also record your VO2 max, or the maximum amount of oxygen your body can use while working out. This number is an excellent metric for measuring your cardiovascular fitness. Your Blood Oxygen levels can also be monitored with a new hardware feature in the Apple Watch Series 6, to calculate your blood's oxygen saturation levels.

New workout types have also been added: core training, functional strength training, dance, and cool down, allowing you to track your fitness in more ways than ever before. 

Apple has also added an always-on altimeter to the Apple Watch Series 6. Apple said: "This feature allows for the detection of small elevation changes above ground level, up and down to the measurement of 1 foot, and can be shown as a new watch face complication or workout metric." 

If your running route takes you up or downhill, you can now accurately measure your challenge and adjust your workouts accordingly. For the serious trail runner, this is a big deal, marking Apple beginning to take a bite out of typical Garmin territory. Garmin has always been the premiere adventure watch, but Apple's in-built altimeter is taking steps to change that. 

Apple is also gearing the watch for the entire family, making it usable for children without iPhones to pair it with, and offering simplistic, extra-large watch faces for older or visually-impaired users.

Apple Watch Series 6: Introducing Apple Fitness+

Apple is also offering its new workout service known as Apple Fitness+. Incorporating metrics from Apple Watch users, Apple Fitness+ will offer personalised workouts to view and follow along on Apple Watch, iPhone and Apple TV. 

The service looks at workouts you've previously completed and offers a "next step", suggesting new options to complement your existing workout routine. Apple Fitness+ users will be able to filter their routines by different trainers, genres of exercise or even the music, finding exactly the workout they want. 

Apple said: "When a workout is selected and started on iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV, the correct workout type will automatically start on Apple Watch. During the session, the metrics from Apple Watch are shown on the screen and come to life for moments of inspiration."

Fitness+ will be available to Apple Watch customers as a subscription service before the end of 2020 for $9.99 per month or $79.99 per year, shared with five other people.

Apple Watch Series 6 is available to order today, starting from $399 or £379 in the UK.

Looking for a less pricey-way to chart your health and fitness journey? Take a look at the best cheap fitness tracker deals and Fitbit deals to be had right now.

At any point in time, there's usually a food or drink that's being championed as a "miracle" weight loss aid. From green tea, which has been found to help your metabolism, to avocado, which became the toast-topper of choice for health fans. 

Now, it's apple cider vinegar, as lots of publications are championing the condiment's purported weight loss benefits. But what does the science say?

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According to a round-up of the available science by Harvard University, much of the hype can be traced back to two studies. The most recent piece of research was published in the Journal of Functional Foods, and shows two groups of people on weight loss diets. One group was given small amounts of apple cider vinegar every day, and the other was not. 

The study found both groups lost weight, but the group that had been given the apple cider vinegar lost much more. The study concluded apple cider vinegar was "an effective strategy" for reducing appetite and losing weight as part of a calorie-controlled diet.

The second study was done in 2009 and published in Biscience, Biotechnology and Biochemistry. The study had three groups of people drink a glass of water containing none, one or two tablespoons of the vinegar each day. It was found the group who drank the most vinegar ended up losing the most weight and having lower levels of fat-storing chemicals known as triglycerides in their body.

It's worth noting during the first study, all participants were already on a calorie-controlled diet. It also needs reminding both studies are fairly small and short term, and Harvard concludes more long-term research is needed to iron out whether apple cider vinegar is really the health boon everyone's raving about.

The bottom line? If you're already cutting calories, eating lots of nutrients and getting plenty of regular exercise, adding two spoonfuls of apple cider vinegar into a glass of water certainly isn't going to make things worse. It might even help you in your weight loss endeavours.

If you are going to give apple cider vinegar a try, add two spoonfuls to a 500ml glass of water, so it's properly diluted, and drink it first thing in the morning because you're often dehydrated when you first wake up. 

Drink a lot more water (without the vinegar) throughout the day to keep your body hydrated, and try our science-backed tips to boost your metabolism as well.

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Have you tried any digital workout services yet? From established names like Peloton, which has expanded from cycling to incorporate over ten different kinds of workouts, to rivals like Zwift and the recently-announced Apple Fitness+, guided home workouts you can access on an app or your smart TV are booming in popularity. As the global health crisis forced people indoors, it's easy to see why there's been such a boom in popularity. 

Many of us struggle with staying on track when it comes to fitness. However, these guided workouts, in which you can set your own goals and keep track of your progress along a personalised fitness plan, might be just the thing to get you off the sofa. 

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• Sign up for a free trial of Peloton here
• Get started with Zwift here

One study, published in the scientific journal Frontiers In Public Health, looked at changing behaviours in sedentary adults when using digital fitness tech.

The study's authors found "many individuals who are inactive do not know how they can increase their activity. One strategy that may be especially important for this group is action planning, or prompting the user to make detailed plans about when and where they will increase their activity."

Together with goal setting functions, digital fitness apps provide a clear framework and action plans to achieve small goals. This takes some of the guesswork out of health and fitness, and has been found to be very effective in getting normally inactive people off the sofa and into their trainers on a regular basis 

This framework has proven very popular: Peloton, Zwift, the recently-announced Apple Fitness+ and other digital services all provide tailored workout plans and a list of achievable goals for people to begin their fitness journey. 

The study goes on to say behavioural changes rely on coaching and information. Listing "teaching people how many steps are in a mile, how much time it will take to walk 1,000 steps, and social support" as examples, the right information and a community of like-minded people are key factors in supporting behavioural changes.  

Digital workout services can provide this coaching and social support, connecting the user with others for online "group workouts".

Even video games are getting in on the act, with Nintendo's Ring Fit Adventure using a new workout apparatus, a Ring-Con, to perform in-game movements. Zwift, the cycling and fitness app, offers similar virtual cycling-related games to play. 

The "gameification" of exercise is a great way to get the same feeling of hitting goals: at the end of your exercise period, you complete a level or defeat an enemy, stimulating the reward centre of the brain like a normal videogame and encouraging you to keep playing. 

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• Best fitness tracker deals
• Best Fitbit deals

Fitbits are some of the most popular fitness trackers around right now, and with good reason: regardless of your budget or needs, there's a best Fitbit model for you. 

However, while the no-frills bands from the Inspire range are "pure" fitness trackers, in that they don't carry much smartwatch functionality, the top-end Fibit Versa and upcoming Fitbit Sense models have eaten into the smartwatch market, competing with products like the Apple Watch. 

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• Check out cheap fitness tracker deals for the best Fitbit competitors

All the more advanced Fitbits are about to get a new tool to gain the edge over their rivals. The best Fitbits can already check your blood oxygen saturation levels, or SpO2 levels, and do so automatically while you sleep, adding the results to your restfulness score.

If you're breathing normally, your blood oxygen saturation levels remain steady, but low saturation could mean your airways are partially blocked while you sleep, which could let you know you're being affected by conditions like sleep apnea which are common in overweight individuals. 

However, a new watch face called SpO2 Signature, which will be available for download on the Fitbit app, can go one step further. The watch face will automatically show your blood oxygen saturation, typically 95-100%, rather than forcing you to go looking for it in the app. This means you're immediately alerted if your breathing is irregular, or depriving your blood of oxygen, whenever you look at the watch.

This new functionality will be available on the upcoming Versa 3 and Fitbit Sense, as well as the Fitbit Versa 2, the original Versa, Versa Lite and Ionic. 

Fitbit measures this through a pulse oximeter, a tool which measures the oxygen in your system by beaming wavelengths of light from a point on the back of the watch, examining your pulse. However, it's not the only medical marvel in Fitbit's arsenal. 

Fitbit began a study this year to see whether its devices could detect early symptoms of coronavirus. The tech giant enrolled over 100,000 participants across the U.S. and Canada to wear the fitness trackers and attempt to pick up early signs of COVID. 

Preliminary results are promising: the trackers detected nearly 50 percent of COVID-19 cases one day before participants reported the onset of symptoms. This was done with about 70 percent specificity, and is only due to get more accurate once the technology becomes more refined. 

When it comes to fitness smartwatches, it doesn't get better than the Apple Watch. Our review of the latest (and greatest) model put it at "the top spot for fitness smartwatches", awarding it a coveted five stars in our official review. 

While the Apple Watch 5 might be top of the heap, the Apple Watch Series 3 still remains head-and-shoulders over many of its competitors, even at a reduced price rate for being older technology. So when we saw Target had reduced the price and the Apple Watch Series 3 to a wallet-friendly $199.99, we had to seize the opportunity. Check out the deal in full below:

Apple Watch Series 3 deal: Why get one?

The Apple Watch's suite of fitness features is almost without equal. It's swimproof, with 3ATM water resistance, it tracks your heart rate, sleep patterns, position during runs, allows you to take calls and operate your music with the touch of a button. 

It's got the best features of the Series 5 with a slightly smaller version of the Watch's trademark pebble display, making it a slim, unobtrusive and stylish workout companion. It uses the same WatchOS as the Series 5, so you're looking at very little difference in functionality for a lot cheaper, especially at this great discount. 

With up to 18 hours battery life, the Apple Watch Series 3 is a fantastic deal, costing around half the price as a fully-kitted out Series 5. For Apple users wanting a great fitness smartwatch on a budget, this is the kit to choose.

Plus, as of December 2020 it's compatible with Apple Fitness+, Apple's all-new workout platform that's worth the hype.

Not happy with the Series 3, but want the latest tech instead? You can check out our official Apple Watch Series 5 review, or carry on to check out our best fitness smartwatches, best fitness trackers and best cheap Fitbit deals.

The Apple Watch Series 5 shows what makes Apple Watches some of the best fitness watches on the market, whether you’re after an iPhone-friendly fitness tracker, a great smartwatch or both together. 

Launched in September 2019, the Series 5 takes the guiding principles of what made the Apple Watch Series 4 so brilliant and adds loads of extra features, improving on the health metrics in the meantime. Plus, as of December 2020 it's compatible with Apple Fitness+, the all-new workout platform that's worth the hype.

So is it worth upgrading to for existing Apple customers, or should you make this your first Apple Watch if you’re a first-time buyer? Here's our in-depth review with all the facts, so you can make an informed decision. 

APPLE WATCH SERIES 5: PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

The Apple Watch Series 5 launched at  £399 / $399 at Currys, Amazon, the Apple store itself and almost everywhere you can get wearables. This gets you the basic model with the 40mm screen and a silicone strap. The next step up is the 44mm screen model, which increases the price by £29.

The sizes are larger than they sound, with the screen on the 40mm actually larger than the 42mm face model from a couple of years ago. If you're not sure about the screen size or you've got larger wrists, try both – lots of men will find the 40mm model suits them fine, and lots of women will prefer the larger one.  

Just like in previous years, Apple is also partnering with Nike to produce a special Nike Run brand Apple Watch, complete with exclusive app. All models come with 32GB of on-board storage now, which is great for keeping more music on there for very long runs, or anything else that needs storing on the Watch (such as offline maps for a planned hike).

Apple Watch Series 5: Design

The Series 5 is very similar to the Series 4 in terms of shape, with a curved pebble shape and edge-to-edge screen. The Digital Crown scrolling side button is still around, as is a secondary side button that can be used to contact emergency services and switch apps on the fly.

It’s still one of the best-looking smartwatches and fitness trackers overall, though its lead is certainly less than it’s been in the past thanks to new entries in the category like the Fitbit Versa 2. The design is not overly thin, but it looks slender thanks to those deceptive edge-to-edge curves. The metals offer a premium-feeling, weighty finish.

The always-on screen is the flagship new hardware feature of the Series 5. Finally: you can now quickly glance at the time without performing the smarwatch wrist-flick, or check the watch's "workout mode" while glance at the time without making a show of it. Very useful.

But here’s what frustrates us about it: if the last thing you were looking at was an app, when you turn your wrist, you see a small digital time read-out instead of your watch face. This readout is a little bit different: it’s smaller and it's easily lost in reflections when out in the sun, which makes bright outdoor workouts challenging at a glance. Why isn’t it easier to read?

APPLE WATCH SERIES 5: PERFORMANCE AND BATTERY

The Apple Watch Series 5’s software additions are all focused around eking out more power for the always-on screen, and other ways of saving power to balance out the extra energy usage. Apple reports the watch has an 18-hour battery life, which we found was pretty accurate: so far, the Series 5 has been at around 35% at the end of the day. This still leaves enough power to monitor my sleep and heart rate overnight, but I wouldn't be confident of leaving the charger behind when staying elsewhere.

Fortunately, the Apple Watch charges very quickly. In addition, you can turn off the always-on display function and get some battery life back in the process. If you know you’re going to be in a situation where you won't have access to a charger for a full day, this is a handy feature to have, removing some of the distance anxiety. Apple’s battery life claims are accurate, but the always-on screen is still bringing the total life downr.

One gripe regarding the charging refers to the hardware: the Watch comes with a USB Type-A cable in the box, which is a bit frustrating in this day and age. The iPhone 11 Pros, iPad Pros and MacBooks all comes with USB Type-C charging cables, so we’re not sure why the Watch hasn’t.

APPLE WATCH SERIES 5: HEALTH METRICS

Apple's latest addition to its smartwatch health metrics is the noise detection. If the watch registers over 90 decibels of ambient sound, such as a concert, you'll get a notification and a small note, advising you how long you can be exposed to this sound without harming your eardrums. 

If you find that this warning comes up a lot when you're somewhere you can't avoid, like your workplace, you can alter the threshold for the alert and just use the watch's Noise app to manually check the levels around you. Apple emphasised that the noise app doesn't record any sound at all – it's just looking at the level. 

A neat new feature is menstrual cycle tracking. By adding information about your period timings and recording symptoms such as fatigue, spotting, acne and breast tenderness, the Watch will use its advanced algorithms to help you predict your next cycle.

The Health app isn't designed to make medical recommendations, but just to give you a better indication as to how your body operates. Combined with all the other Health data your phone and watch collects, you can get a really comprehensive overview of your general health: from finding out the causes of your headaches to seeing your heart rate spike after drinking coffee, you'll be able to find out the right way your body operates on a day-to-day basis. 

APPLE WATCH SERIES 5: HIKING AND TRAIL-RUNNING

Other than the always-on screen, the altimeter and compass are the big changes in hardware. While Apple's previous devices could identify changes in elevation (ie, how far you've climbed or descended), the Series 5 calculates this from your absolute elevation (the height you started your hike/trail run from) creating a more sophisticated measurement.

This is great for tracking yourself on hikes and seeing exactly what you've achieved, or just if you're curious at any time. The Apple Watch compass is more accuratemost phones' magnetometer compasses.

It's not the most exciting feature, but it makes using the Watch for walking navigation very useful, biting into the Garmin Fenix's trail running credentials. For your average hiking holiday, the Watch just became an indispensable tool.

APPLE WATCH SERIES 5: FITNESS

Apple has made some changes to present the data it harvests in new ways. The Activity app compares your most recent exercise sessions with your historic scores, your previous daily activity minutes and recent personal bests. It's a reminder that hitting your targets doesn't automatically mean everything is as good as it was before.

The Health app's new Summary skill lets you choose which kinds of information that the app stores that you're most interested in, and this is all shown clearly on a single page, with no need to scroll through different menus on the Watch. 

People keeping an eye on their blood pressure can select a summary comprising of a smart gauge, mindfulness data and heart rate graphs, while those looking to lose weight will be able to see data from smart scales and calorie counters. The summary feature is an easy, comprehensive way to tailor the Watch to your goals.

APPLE WATCH SERIES 5: VERDICT

Let's make this easy for people who bought last year's Watch: Apple Watch Series 4 owners should feel free to skip this model. The Series 5 is better than the Series 4, naturally, but the new features aren't revolutionary enough for us to recommend the change. There's a good reason why it has replaced the Series 4 in the line-up rather than the Series 4 staying around with a drop in price: this is the ultimate evolution of that design.

For first-time buyers and Series 1 and 2 owners, we 100% recommend upgrading! This is the best version yet of the best smartwatch around, and Fit&Well readers will get a kick out of the increased suite of fitness features. We love it.

At Fit&Well, like lots of sites, we want to keep you updated with the latest news, how-tos and advice from the world of health and fitness. We have a service in which we're able to provide you, If you are subscribed to it, with notifications whenever we post content we think you'll be interested in. 

However, we understand that while browsing the net, you can access and give your details to so many websites that you could be bombarded with notifications whenever you turn on your phone or computer. 

Whether you're doing a digital detox or you're simply getting too many notifications right now, here's how you tackle those problems head on and revoke your permission. Although it differs depending on which web browser you use, it's a very easy thing to turn off – once you know how.

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How to turn off web notifications: Microsoft Edge

When you've opened the Microsoft Edge browser, find the menu by clicking the three dots in the top right corner. In that menu you'll find 'Settings' followed by 'View Advanced Settings'.

Under 'View Advanced Settings' there will be an option called 'Notifications'. Press on 'Website Permissions' where you can revoke access for notifications for each website that you no longer want to receive notifications from.

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How to turn off web notifications: Firefox

The simplest way to unsubscribe from web notifications on Firefox is to enter about:preferences#privacy into the URL box at the top of the browser. This will open Firefox's "preferences" function.

In preferences, scroll down and open "permissions", then "notifications" and "settings". You'll be able to see a list of all the websites currently allowed to send you notifications.

All the websites allowed to send you notifications should be set to "allow". With a click, you'll be able to change this to "block". Make sure you press "save changes" in the bottom right hand corner before leaving the window. 

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How to turn off web notifications: Google Chrome

First things first, open Google Chrome. Select "Settings" and navigate your way to "Privacy". Select "Site Settings", scroll down to "Notifications" and select the websites you still want to receive notifications from. You'll have a separate list of "Block" and "Allow". 

It's a similar process for Google Chrome across Mac, PC and Android devices. The only difference is you may be presented with a "remove" button, which will remove notification permissions but the site may ask again if you visit it in the future. "Block" on the other hand, unequivocally revokes those permissions until you decide to unblock it again.

How to turn off web notifications: Safari

First thing to do is open up your Safari Preferences, which is accessible in the top bar on your Safari window, then hit the option that says "Websites". You'll find a list with an option that says "Notifications" listing all the websites you have allowed to supply you with notifications. You can toggle "Allow" or "Deny" next to any of these websites. 

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