Whether you’re dipping into the pool for the first time or training for your next triathlon, having the right fitness tracker can transform your swimming experience. In this comprehensive beginner’s guide, we break down the best fitness trackers for swimmers, what features to look for, and how to choose the right device for your aquatic workouts.
Looking for the best fitness tracker for swimmers? This beginner’s guide compares top swim-friendly trackers, key features to look for, and how to pick the perfect waterproof device for your swimming needs.
Why Use a Fitness Tracker for Swimming?
Dive Into Smarter Swimming With Data on Your Wrist
Fitness trackers offer swimmers a unique advantage: real-time data on performance, stroke count, laps, and more. Unlike traditional gym workouts, swimming has unique metrics that are harder to track manually. A swim-specific tracker provides:
Lap counting
Stroke recognition
Distance tracking
SWOLF scores (efficiency measurement)
Heart rate (with select waterproof models)
Swim style analytics
By using a waterproof fitness tracker, swimmers can set measurable goals, identify strengths, and track progress over time, enhancing both motivation and performance.
What to Look For in a Swim Fitness Tracker
Essential Features for Swim-Ready Tech
Not all fitness trackers are created equal. Here are the key features every swimmer should prioritize:
Water Resistance Rating: Look for at least 5 ATM (50 meters) water resistance.
Swim Tracking Modes: Should include pool swim and open water swim modes.
Accurate Sensors: Accelerometer and gyroscope for lap and stroke recognition.
Heart Rate Monitoring: Ideally from the wrist or paired chest strap.
Battery Life: Especially important for open water swimmers.
Compatibility: Works with your smartphone and favorite fitness apps.
Display: Easy to read underwater with backlighting.
These features make a huge difference in providing accurate, reliable swim data.
Pool vs. Open Water: Choosing the Right Tracker
Match Your Tracker With Your Swim Environment
Your swimming environment affects your choice of tracker:
Pool Swimmers should prioritize lap counting, turn detection, and stroke type recognition. Devices like the Garmin Swim 2 or Fitbit Charge 6 excel here.
Open Water Swimmers need built-in GPS, durable battery life, and waterproofing. Apple Watch Series 9 and Coros Pace 3 are strong candidates.
Make sure the tracker supports your type of swim workout and provides reliable data in that environment.
How to Use a Fitness Tracker While Swimming
Tips for Beginners to Get the Most From Your Device
Using a fitness tracker while swimming is simple, but it helps to know a few tricks:
Secure the fit: A snug wrist fit ensures sensor accuracy.
Set swim mode: Always activate swim mode before starting.
Calibrate pool length: Most trackers ask for pool length (e.g., 25m or 50m).
Post-swim syncing: Sync your swim to your app post-session.
Rinse and dry: After swimming, rinse your device with fresh water and dry it.
These steps protect your device and give you the most accurate results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Swim Tracker
Don’t Let These Errors Sink Your Purchase
Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of:
Buying non-swim-specific models: Some fitness trackers are water-resistant but not accurate for swim metrics.
Ignoring compatibility: Check if the tracker works with your iOS or Android phone.
Overlooking comfort: Bulky watches can become uncomfortable during longer swim sessions.
Forgetting about battery: Long swim workouts require reliable battery life.
Best Apps to Pair With Your Swim Tracker
Maximize Your Swim Tracking With These Helpful Tools
Pairing your tracker with the right app improves your tracking and insights:
Garmin Connect: Great for data-rich analysis (Garmin Swim 2)
Apple Health + Swim.com: Best for Apple Watch users
Fitbit App: Simple and user-friendly
Strava: For sharing swim workouts with a community
MySwimPro: Offers guided swim workouts and training plans
Top 5 Fitness Trackers for Swimmers in 2025
Dive Into the Best Options Available Today
Here are the best fitness trackers for swimmers currently on the market:
1. Garmin Swim 2
- Designed specifically for swimmers
- Tracks heart rate underwater
- Built-in GPS for open water
- Pool swim mode with stroke, pace, and SWOLF tracking
2. Apple Watch Series 9
- Advanced swim tracking features
- Water-resistant to 50 meters
- Accurate heart rate sensor
- Wide range of third-party swim apps
3. Fitbit Charge 6
- Budget-friendly option
- Tracks basic swim stats
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Water-resistant up to 50 meters
4. Coros Pace 3
- Excellent for triathletes
- Durable and GPS-enabled
- Long battery life
- Precise open water tracking
5. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
- Stylish and functional
- Automatic swim detection
- Works well with Samsung Health app
- AMOLED display easy to read underwater
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Swim Companion
Choosing the best fitness tracker for swimming doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Consider your environment (pool or open water), desired features, and budget. Whether you’re a casual swimmer or training for competition, the right fitness tracker will provide the motivation, insights, and tools to elevate your performance.
With a swim-ready device on your wrist, you can turn every dip in the water into measurable progress.