Apple is kicking off the new year with a renewed focus on health and fitness, as Apple Watch and Apple Fitness+ introduce fresh programs, motivating challenges, and new Time to Walk episodes to help users stay active and consistent throughout 2026.
The Apple Watch — widely known as a powerful fitness and health companion — continues to offer meaningful insights into workouts, activity trends, and overall wellness, while Fitness+ expands its library with new multiweek training plans and Artist Spotlight workouts.
According to new findings from the Apple Heart and Movement Study, users wearing Apple Watch are more likely to maintain higher exercise levels well into the new year — even beyond the commonly observed “Quitter’s Day” in mid-January. The research, based on data contributed by thousands of participants, shows that a majority of Apple Watch users increase their daily exercise minutes in January and continue progressing through the following months.
To help users stay motivated, Apple is rolling out the “Ring in the New Year” limited-edition Activity award, which can be earned by closing all three rings for seven consecutive days in January. In addition, Apple Watch users on Strava can join a special “Quit Quitting” challenge, where completing 12 workouts during the month unlocks an exclusive Strava badge.
Apple Fitness+ is also adding four new structured workout programs designed to simplify training routines and build long-term consistency. These include programs for making a fitness comeback, developing a yoga habit, improving strength fundamentals, and pairing back-to-back Strength and HIIT workouts. Each plan features guided weekly sessions that gradually increase intensity to support steady progress.
The popular Artist Spotlight series is returning with new workouts featuring music from KAROL G and Bad Bunny, while the latest season of Time to Walk includes inspiring episodes from personalities such as Penn Badgley, Mel B, and Michelle Monaghan.
Available across iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV, Fitness+ delivers personalized recommendations, custom plans, and onscreen workout metrics when paired with Apple Watch or compatible headphones. With new programs, research-backed motivation, and expanded wellness content, Apple Watch and Fitness+ aim to help users restart, refocus, and stay committed to their health and fitness goals throughout 2026.