The Apple Watch utilizes its built-in altimeter and accelerometer to estimate the number of flights of stairs climbed. A “flight” is generally understood as an ascent or descent equivalent to approximately ten feet or three meters. While the watch doesn’t explicitly count individual steps within a flight, it infers upward or downward movement based on changes in elevation and motion. This data contributes to overall activity tracking and calorie expenditure calculations.
Tracking elevation gain provides a more comprehensive picture of physical activity beyond simply counting steps. It acknowledges the increased effort required for stair climbing, a beneficial exercise contributing to cardiovascular health and leg strength. This feature can motivate users to incorporate more incline into their daily routines, aiding in fitness goals. Moreover, as technology advances, accurate elevation tracking could become increasingly valuable for individuals with mobility concerns or those interested in monitoring their exertion in varied terrains.
