Garmin has launched exciting new products for runners, including the Forerunner 970 and Forerunner 570 watches, alongside an innovative chest strap called the HRM 600. These products boost the training experience without requiring a subscription to the newly launched Garmin Connect Plus.
What’s New in the Forerunner Series?
The Forerunner 970 is the premium model, priced at $749.99, and it enhances tracking with offline maps. The 570 comes in at $549.99, aiming to bridge the gap between affordability and advanced features, although it doesn’t include offline maps.
Both watches share some amazing upgrades. They now have built-in speakers and microphones for hands-free calls and vibrant OLED displays. A standout feature is the new skin temperature sensor and an evening report, which gives you insights into your sleep needs and the next day’s weather. The new colors and transparent bands are eye-catching and add a fresh style, though more subdued options are available for those who prefer less flashy designs.
Training Features
From a training perspective, both models come with access to free Garmin Coach programs, helping users in triathlon training. You can also create custom workouts that combine different activities into one session. New race features include a predicted race time and automatic lap logging when you reach course markers. The watches even help by trimming excess data if you forget to stop the timer after finishing a race.
Diving Deeper: Key Differences
The 570 offers two size options: 42mm and 47mm, with an aluminum bezel. In contrast, the 970 has a single 47mm option but comes with a premium titanium bezel and a sapphire lens for added durability. The 970 also features an LED flashlight and compatibility with an EKG app to help detect atrial fibrillation.
Battery life is another consideration. The 570 can last up to 11 days on a full charge, while the 970 can last up to 15 days, making it a great choice for those long training sessions.
Unique Metrics for Serious Runners
The 970 introduces new performance metrics that can help serious runners understand their training better. Metrics like running tolerance provide recommendations for weekly mileage, helping avoid injury. Running economy informs you about your energy use during runs, while step speed loss shows how your pace might decline with each foot strike. However, to access these features, you’ll need the HRM 600 chest strap, which costs $169.99. This strap also tracks activities that might not be suitable for smartwatches.
Recent Trends and User Reactions
Many users appreciate these new advancements, especially the in-depth performance metrics. Social media reactions highlight the excitement over the color options and practical features like the built-in speaker. With more athletes demanding smarter technology, Garmin’s latest series is well-timed.
In 2022, a survey found that 70% of runners sought devices with comprehensive health metrics, reflecting a growing trend towards performance-oriented wearables. This aligns with the increasing popularity of running and the need for reliable training tools.
With these new watches and features, Garmin continues to be at the forefront of running technology, helping athletes achieve their goals more effectively than ever before. All products will be available for order starting May 21st. For more information on Garmin’s latest offerings, check their official site.
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