There's a definite work flow for Apple Watch.....

[alywa]

I exercise daily, but this watch helps me push even more. I never really know how much calories I burn, and I don't know how accurate the Apple Watch measures, but as long as it is consistent, I'll be pushing my goal of at least 700 calories a day. I'll adjust it over time.

Same boat. Like OP, for years I tried (sometimes successfully) to lose weight. Around 18 months ago (turning 40 had a lot to do with it) I basically begged a buddy of mine to take me on as a project in the gym. He was game and we started to workout together 2-3 times per week. Since then I've lost 30 lbs and gained an actual shape. It's nice.

So, how does the apple watch fit in? Even though I'm already motivated and in the habit of regular exercise, the Watch motivates me that much more. I'm far more conscious of how long I exercise each day, I try not to sit much, and I MUST complete the rings if at all possible, even if it means a midday or evening walk or extra rowing / biking session. I can already see results on top of my previous improvements. It's really a great device.

Good luck to everyone trying to get in shape... stick with it and use the watch to help motivate you. Anyone can do it... even if you've tried 853 times before

 

[Wallabe]

Here's a bunch of screenshots when I was there. The data says most days are about 10-12 miles a day. I don't know how accurate the miles are. I'm guessing Apple is using your height and estimating your stride distance as you make your steps. It most likely isn't using the iPhone's GPS; otherwise, the iPhone battery will die quickly.

Here's a screen grab of my screenshots from Photos. A bit blurry but readable.
http://i.imgur.com/IQu4kCJ.png

It doesn't count walking as exercise, even in the hot and humid weather (85-90F average daily). Maybe it's only when I'm on a rollercoaster and my heartbeat is racing. It averages about 35 mins out of 30 mins recommended per day. One day I had more than 60 mins out of the 30 mins exercise. I wouldn't consider it an exercise when my heartbeat increases while on a rollercoaster, but then Apple doesn't consider 3 mph walking pace as exercise. They want you to run.

It only tracks when you wear it. So if you forget to wear it, it won't record it. I have no idea how accurate the data is. It may say I'm burning 1100 calories, but I could be burning 1000 or 1200 instead, not including when I'm not wearing it (shower, sleep, etc.). I'm sure Apple has some basic formula when you setup your personal data like weight, height, age, sex. It's a good estimate, but I don't think it's completely accurate. That's not a problem though. "Calories" is a man made idea, a way to measure things. It may not be accurate compare to someone else measurement, but all I really care is that it is consistent in it's measurement. That way I can increase my daily goal over time.