5 tips to improve the GPS on your smartwatch
Follow these 5 tips
- Check if GPS is turned on during your workout
- Update your software
- Start the workout already
- Stand still and put your watch in the air
- Restart your watch
Tip 1: check if GPS is turned on during your workout
When you go for a walk, run, go cycling, or do a different workout outside, you can track your route with your smartwatch. For some smartwatches, receiving GPS is turned off by default.
- Go to the workout you want to do (for example, running).
- Go to the settings of this workout. Turn on GPS.
- If GPS is already on, but you have to choose between 'GPS only' or 'all systems', choose all systems. This way, your smartwatch uses all satellites that it can receive. This means your signal is stronger and more accurate.
Tip 2: update your software
Make sure that the software of your smartwatch is up-to-date. This way, your watch receives a satellite signal best. You usually update your smartwatch via the settings of your watch. Can't find it there? Look in the accompanying app on your smartphone.
Tip 3: start the workout already
Most smartwatches look for a GPS signal as soon as you click on your workout. Otherwise, it uses too much battery. This means you have to click on a workout (walking, for example), but don't start the workout yet. With some smartwatches, like Garmin, you can see that the watch is looking for a GPS signal ('wait for GPS'). Do go outside, because GPS doesn't work indoors. Only start your workout after your smartwatch has found the GPS signal.
Tip 4: stand still and put your watch in the air
Are you already running or cycling while the watch is still looking for a connection? It's possible that it won't find any satellites. That's why you should stand still before you start your workout. It may take a few minutes for the watch to find enough satellites. Does the watch take long? It helps to aim the watch upwards and keep your arm still. It's also useful to walk towards an open area. High buildings and trees weaken the signal, so don't stand right next to them.
Tip 5: restart your watch
Sometimes, restarting a device helps. Go outside and restart your smartwatch. The watch will look for GPS right away while it's restarting. If necessary, try all tips above again after this.
