Apple Watch New Year Activity Challenge Returns With a Twist

Apple’s annual New Year tradition for Apple Watch users is back, and the 2026 edition adds a new twist. Apple has officially launched its Ring in the New Year limited-edition Activity award, giving users fresh motivation to stay active right from the start of January.

“To kick off the new year, Apple Watch users can earn the Ring in the New Year limited-edition award when they close all three Activity rings for seven days in a row in January,” Apple said in a press release. Complete the challenge, and you’ll unlock a special animated award in the Activity and Fitness apps, along with exclusive stickers that can be used in iMessage.

What makes this year different, however, is that Apple is expanding the New Year motivation beyond its own ecosystem. For the first time ever, Apple Watch users can also take part in a dedicated “Quit Quitting” challenge in the Strava app. After joining the challenge, users who log 12 workouts at any point during January will earn a special Apple Watch badge inside Strava. It’s a notable collaboration with a third-party fitness platform, and one that could appeal to runners and cyclists who already rely on Strava for tracking and social motivation.

The dual challenges arrive alongside Apple’s broader push to help users stick with their fitness goals beyond the first few weeks of January, where the second Friday is often dubbed “Quitter’s Day.” Apple recently cited new data showing that Apple Watch users are more likely to maintain increased exercise levels well into the new year.

Beyond Activity challenges, Apple has also announced major updates coming to Apple Fitness+, including brand-new workout programs, additional Artist Spotlight sessions, and new Time to Walk episodes. Together, the updates reinforce Apple’s message that Apple Watch remains at the centre of its health and fitness strategy in 2026.