PRactical supports two ways to log cardio: as a standalone session (no active workout needed) or as part of a strength workout. Both options save to your history with your activity type, duration, and distance.
Standalone cardio — tap 'Log Cardio'
On the Home tab or the Workout tab (when no workout is active), you'll see a 'Log Cardio' button below 'Start Workout'. Tap it. A sheet opens where you choose your activity type — Running, Cycling, Rowing, and more — then either use the built-in timer or enter your duration manually.
Choose 'Use Timer' or 'Enter Manually'
Tap 'Use Timer' to start an internal stopwatch. The timer runs while you exercise — you can minimize the app and come back when you're done. Tap 'Stop' to freeze the time, then tap 'Log Cardio' to save. Tap 'Enter Manually' to type in hours and minutes instead, which is useful if you forgot to start the timer or are logging after the fact.
Add distance (optional) and save
If you tracked your distance, enter it in the Distance field. Then tap 'Log Cardio'. The session is saved immediately to your history — no need to end a workout.
Cardio during a strength workout
If you want to add a cardio block to an active strength session — for example, a treadmill warm-up or a conditioning finisher — tap the 'Cardio' toggle in the active workout screen and use the '+' button there. The cardio activity is logged as part of that workout, not as a standalone entry.
When you tap 'Use Timer', PRactical records the exact start time. If you close the app or lock your screen and come back later, the elapsed time is still accurate — it's calculated from the start timestamp, not a background process.
Frequently asked questions
Does a standalone cardio session count as a workout in my history?
Yes. It shows up in your History tab just like a strength workout. Your last-session date and total session count on the Home screen both include standalone cardio entries.
Can I log both cardio and strength in the same session?
Yes. Start a workout normally, add your exercises, then switch to the Cardio tab within the active workout to log any cardio activities. Everything saves together when you end the workout.
What activity types are available?
Running, Cycling, Rowing, Swimming, Elliptical, Stair Climber, Jump Rope, Walking, Hiking, HIIT, and Other. If you use something not on the list, log it as 'Other' and add a note.
Can I log cardio if a workout is already in progress?
The standalone 'Log Cardio' button is hidden while a workout is active — it would create a separate entry rather than attaching to your current session. Switch to the Cardio tab inside your active workout to add cardio there instead.