Google Health 5.11 Detects 100 Workout Types

Google is deploying version 5.11 of its health application this week. The release introduces a major change to how the software identifies physical exercise. It now tracks up to 100 distinct activity types. This is a tenfold increase from the previous limit of 10 activities.

The new tracking capability is live on the Fitbit Air. It is also active on the Pixel Watch 3, 4, and 5. The Fitbit Edge will receive the update upon its launch on October 27. The system now recognizes strength training, swimming, and various team sports. It also covers racket sports and other movements.

Google states the detection uses contextual reasoning. The software analyzes a user's historical data and manual edits. It also considers established workout routines. The company claims this approach makes detections nearly twice as accurate. It also reduces missed workouts by more than half.

The system automatically logs sessions that meet specific criteria. A workout must last at least 15 minutes by default. It must also show a sustained elevated heart rate. A summary typically appears in the app within 30 minutes. When a user confirms or edits a log, the feature refines its future predictions.

New tools are also arriving for subscribers to Google Health Premium. Owners of the Fitbit Air and Fitbit Edge can access two Health Guardian features. These include blood pressure trends and insulin resistance trends. Users can set up these tools now. The first reports are scheduled for the beginning of November.

Blood pressure trends help users monitor patterns that might strain the heart. This feature requires wearing a Fitbit Air for at least five consecutive days in October. Insulin resistance trends track monthly shifts in metabolic health. Users must wear their watch for seven or more days and nights during the month to access this data.

The update also changes how the app displays glucose data. The label 'Blood glucose' is now simply 'Glucose.' Charts and graphs have been updated to match this change. Users can set custom time-in-range goals for connected continuous glucose monitors. They do this by navigating to the Metabolic section of the Health tab.

In the United States, the app now connects directly to Lingo by Abbott. This integration displays glucose readings within 30 minutes. Premium members can ask the Health Coach questions about these trends. The connection is made by tapping the profile icon and selecting Partner Apps. Sleep tracking has also been refined. The system now uses step data to better capture short awakenings. Users can also remove naps that do not match their day directly from the nap card. Version 5.11 is available on iOS and is rolling out to Android users.