Google Update Boosts Workout Tracking to 100 Activity Types

Google Health app version 5.11 starts rolling out this week.

The update changes how automatically detected workouts are logged. Devices can now recognize 100 types of activity, up from 10 under the previous version. The list includes strength training, swimming, racket sports and team sports. The feature is live on the Fitbit Air and on the Pixel Watch 3, 4 and 5. The Fitbit Edge will get it on October 27, when that device launches.

Google says its system draws on a user's past routines, historical data and manual edits to decide when to log a session. The company reports that its detection accuracy is nearly double the prior rate and that missed workouts drop by more than half. A workout that runs for at least 15 minutes, the default minimum, with a heart rate that stays elevated will be recorded on its own. A summary usually lands in the Google Health app within 30 minutes. When a user confirms or changes a logged activity, the system uses that input to adjust later predictions.

The update also adds tools for subscribers to Google Health Premium who own a Fitbit Air or Fitbit Edge. Blood pressure trends and insulin resistance trends can be set up now. The first reports are due in early November.

Blood pressure trends appear in the Health Guardian section of the Health tab for people who have worn a Fitbit Air for at least five straight days in October. Insulin resistance trends require seven or more days and nights of wear during the month. Google describes the blood pressure tool as a way to spot patterns before they put strain on the heart, and the insulin resistance tool as a way to track monthly shifts in metabolic health.

The app renames the Blood glucose section to Glucose and updates its charts. People who connect a continuous glucose monitor can set custom time-in-range goals through the Metabolic section of the Health tab, then Glucose, Settings and Set goal. In the US, Lingo by Abbott can connect directly to the Google Health app, and glucose readings show up within 30 minutes. Premium members can ask Google Health Coach about their glucose trends. The connection is made by tapping the profile icon and selecting Partner Apps.

Sleep tracking now uses step data to catch short awakenings, such as getting up to use the bathroom. A nap card also lets people remove a nap that does not match their day.

Version 5.11 is available on iOS. The rollout to Android users continues.