Whoop has finally introduced a step count feature to its screen-less fitness tracker, which might surprise those who are not well-acquainted with the product. While step tracking has been a fundamental aspect of nearly all wearable fitness devices since they were first launched, Whoop has notably excluded this feature until now. After considerable anticipation, Whoop users can now easily track their daily step count.
Will Ahmed, the founder and CEO of Whoop, took to X (formerly Twitter) to explain the company’s recent change in policy. He highlighted that research indicates taking more than 8,200 steps each day reduces the risk of various chronic illnesses and obesity. However, he also provided two additional reasons for this decision, which are more focused on the experience of those who pay $30 monthly to utilize the Whoop app and its features.
“Our members really wanted this feature,” Ahmed shared. He added that he grew tired of hearing feedback about users needing to wear a different device to monitor their steps, which he felt detracted from the overall experience. This development exemplifies how the loudest feedback can lead to positive change, or perhaps, even getting the attention of the company’s founder. For context, the Whoop fitness tracker has been around for nine years.
Further details about this new feature can be found on Whoop’s official website. The Whoop app will now display daily step counts and aggregate them weekly, monthly, and over six-month periods. Users will be notified about significant step milestones and can even set daily step goals. The step count will be visible on the Whoop Dashboard, though it may not function exactly like the tracking of other activities on the device.
Whoop employs a unique metric called Strain to assess workout intensity and the impact of various activities on the body. However, it warns that unless you engage in brisk walking that elevates your heart rate, steps may not significantly contribute to your Strain score. While there’s no specified rollout date for the step counting feature on your fitness tracker, Ahmed mentioned that it is currently accessible, so you can check the Dashboard on your app’s home screen to see if it’s available.
