Achievement badges on the Apple Watch may seem like simple digital rewards, but their psychological impact is undeniable. Though they serve no functional purpose, these badges have become a powerful motivator for users to stay active. The gamification of fitness tracking has encouraged many to push their limits—and on June 4, Apple is offering a unique incentive: a special badge for completing a 5K run.
How to Unlock Apple Watch Activity Badges
Standard Achievements Available Year-Round
Most badges can be earned at any time. Users can preview these in the Achievements tab of the iPhone’s Activity app, where unearned badges appear as grey outlines. However, some achievements remain hidden until unlocked, such as monthly challenges and individual workout milestones.
First-Time Workout Badges
Completing a new type of exercise for at least five minutes unlocks a badge. Eligible workouts include walking, yoga, HIIT, hiking, and more—excluding the generic ”Other” category. Activities with indoor and outdoor variants (like Cycling or Walking) count as one; users only need to complete either version to earn the badge.
Breaking Personal Records
Another badge rewards users for beating their previous best calorie burn in any tracked workout. However, there’s a catch: five completed workouts of that type are required first. A strategic approach? Keep initial sessions short and easy to set a low benchmark for future improvements.
With these badges serving as virtual trophies, Apple continues to blend technology and psychology to keep users moving. Will you be lacing up for the June 4 5K challenge?
Related topics:
- Macworld Podcast: The state of the Apple Watch and watchOS
- Apple Watch Series 11: Everything we know about the 2025 models
- Apple Watch Activity badges: Run a 5K on June 4 for a special running badge
