Apple Watch can automatically start a music playlist when you begin a workout, provided the watch and software support the Workout Playlist feature. You choose the playlist through the Watch app on the paired iPhone rather than from the Workout app itself.
Choose a workout playlist
- Open the Watch app on the paired iPhone.
- Select My Watch.
- Open Workout.
- Tap Workout Playlist.
- Select the playlist you want the watch to use.
The selected playlist can begin automatically when a workout starts, depending on your current playback state and watchOS behavior.
The music may need to be available on the watch
For listening without the iPhone nearby, make sure the desired music is downloaded or otherwise available under your Apple Music and Apple Watch configuration. Streaming availability depends on the watch model, connectivity, subscription, and current Apple services.
Already playing audio can take priority
If music, a podcast, or another audio source is already playing when you start a workout, watchOS may continue that audio instead of automatically starting the workout playlist.
Change the playlist without deleting music
Selecting a different Workout Playlist changes the automatic workout choice. It does not necessarily remove the old playlist or downloaded songs from your Apple Watch. Manage downloaded music separately when you need to recover storage.
Newer watchOS versions can differ
Apple regularly changes the Watch app and workout/audio features. If Workout Playlist is missing, check the installed watchOS and iOS versions and search the current Watch settings before assuming there is a fault.
Use headphones at a safe volume, particularly when exercising near traffic or other situations where environmental sounds matter.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.