# Workout preferences and units

Updated: 2026-08-23
Canonical page: https://methodapp.net/docs/workout-preferences-smart-loads-and-units
Docs index: https://methodapp.net/docs

Tracking mode, load units, distance units, and smart load suggestions, all from one place.

> **In short.** Workout preferences hold your tracking mode, weight and distance units, and the suggested-load setting. Suggested loads need Advanced tracking, are off by default, and compute a starting weight from your most recent eligible set for the exercise, shown with the calculation and always editable. No history, no suggestion.

  - **Tracking mode** Basic keeps the workout surface simpler. Advanced enables intensity targets,
    rest, tempo, percent-based loading, and smart loads. See
    [Basic vs Advanced tracking](/docs/basic-vs-advanced-tracking).

  - **Weight unit** Kilograms or pounds, for logging, history, and load suggestions.

  - **Distance unit** Kilometres or miles, for cardio activity and history.

  - **Smart loads** Uses recent training history to suggest a starting load. Suggestions stay
    editable.

## Smart loads in practice

  1. **Keep Advanced tracking on** Smart loads depend on the Advanced workout model, so they are unavailable in
    Basic mode.

  1. **Train normally** Method uses recent logged work to produce a suggested starting load wherever
    it has enough context.

  1. **Edit the suggestion when needed** You can change the load before or during the workout. The suggestion exists
    to reduce setup friction.

> **No history, no suggestion.** Method leaves the load blank when it has not seen enough of a movement. The
>   first time through, you set the number.