Garmin’s latest Forerunner models, the 570 and 970, are designed to be more than just timekeepers—they’re like having a dedicated training partner with you on every run. These watches combine advanced features with user-friendly design, catering to runners of all levels.
From race-ready features like running economy and step-speed loss to everyday tools like training suggestions and recovery insights, these watches pack in useful, easy-to-digest data whether you’re training for your first 10K or your next podium finish. Add a seriously long battery life and the ability to make calls from your wrist, and you’ve got a watch that’s ready to go as far as you do.
Smarter training, not just more features
One of the standout additions is Garmin’s personalized training plans, which adjust daily based on your performance, recovery and sleep metrics. These plans, originally developed for triathletes, now also offer run-specific sessions, giving road and trail runners tailored workouts that evolve as their training progresses. For runners who prefer to chart their own course, custom workout building is available through the Garmin Connect app, allowing you to set interval sessions, recovery blocks and more—then send them straight to your watch.
More than just miles
Both models track newer running metrics like running economy, tolerance and step speed loss—offering insight into how efficiently you’re moving and where fatigue might be creeping in. The Forerunner 970 goes a bit further, adding features like a wrist-based ECG app, skin temperature tracking, and even a built-in LED flashlight—a nod to early morning or late evening runners.
And yes, there’s now a speaker and microphone built into the watches, so if you need to take a quick call mid-run (or use voice commands), you can do that without pulling out your phone.
Post-run, pre-next-run
Garmin’s evening report can help runners wind down and reset, offering next-day weather, a summary of your upcoming training and sleep insights. The watches can even predict menstrual cycles and track ovulation windows using changes in skin temperature, helpful for those who want to better sync training with hormonal shifts.
Battery life is strong, too. The Forerunner 570 lasts up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 18 hours in GPS mode, while the 970 pushes that to 15 days and 26 hours, respectively—enough to last through most race weekends without worry.
A new heart rate monitor, too
Alongside the watches, Garmin’s HRM 600 was released with more detailed run dynamics. Paired with the Forerunner 970, it captures metrics like speed loss at ground contact, helping identify where form starts to break down under fatigue. It also works independently of a watch, storing speed and distance independently—a handy backup for treadmill or indoor sessions.
Pricing and availability
The Forerunner 570 is available in two sizes—42mm and 47mm—with a retail price of $549.99. The Forerunner 970, featuring a 47mm case, is priced at $749.99. Both models are set to be available for order starting May 21.
