If you’re the proud owner of a Garmin GPS watch, you already know it’s packed with smart fitness and navigation tools—but even seasoned users are surprised to discover how many hidden Garmin watch features go unnoticed. Whether you’re using a Garmin Fenix, Forerunner, or Instinct, your watch is likely capable of more than you think.
From route planning to performance metrics, here a few Garmin watch tips and lesser-known tools that can take your training, recovery, and even daily routine to the next level.
1. Garmin Run Planner & Route Planner: Your Personal Trail Guide
Most users know their Garmin can track a run—but fewer realize the power of the Garmin Run Planner and Garmin Route Planner. These tools let you create custom routes based on distance, terrain, and elevation, then sync them directly to your watch.
Available on:
- Fenix Series (6, 7, 8)
- Forerunner Series (245+, 255, 955, 965)
- Enduro Series
- Epix Series
- Instinct 2, Instinct 3, Instinct Crossover (E)
- Venu 3 (limited route support)
Perfect for: Trail runners, cyclists, and outdoor explorers.
2. Garmin Suggested Workout Settings: Your On-Wrist Coach
Your Garmin GPS watch can generate Garmin workout suggestions based on your recent performance, recovery, and training load. You can personalize these further in Garmin suggested workout settings through Garmin Connect.
Available on:
- Forerunner Series (245+, 255, 955, 965)
- Fenix Series (6, 7, 8)
- Epix Gen 2 and newer
- Instinct 2, Instinct 3, Instinct Crossover (E)
- Enduro Series
- Venu 2 and 3
Perfect for: Structured training and guided progress.
3. Garmin Find My Phone & Find My Watch Feature
Wondering how to find a lost Garmin watch or phone? With Garmin Find My Phone, trigger an alert from your watch to find your phone—and vice versa with Find My Watch in Garmin Connect.
Available on:
- All Bluetooth-enabled Garmin smartwatches, including:
- Fenix Series
- Forerunner Series
- Venu Series
- Epix Series
- Instinct 2, Instinct 3, and Instinct Crossover (E)
Perfect for: Anyone who misplaces devices often (no judgment here).
4. Interval Training Customization
The Garmin interval training feature lets you create custom workouts with warm-up, work/rest intervals, and cooldowns—fully tailored to your training style.
Available on:
- Forerunner Series (245+, 255, 955, 965)
- Fenix Series (6, 7, 8)
- Epix Series
- Enduro
- Venu 2 and 3
- Instinct 2, Instinct 3, Instinct Crossover (E)
Perfect for: Athletes training with precision.
5. Deep Dive into Garmin Metrics
Your Garmin device provides advanced Garmin metrics like VO2 Max, Training Effect, Training Load, HRV Status, and Recovery Time. These metrics offer serious insight into your fitness level and progress.
Available on:
- Fenix 6, 7, 8
- Forerunner 245+ and up
- Epix Gen 2+
- Venu 3 (some metrics limited)
- Instinct 2, Instinct 3, Instinct Crossover (E) (limited to VO2 Max, Training Status, HRV with HRM pairing)
Perfect for: Data-driven athletes who want to train smarter.
6. Sleep and Stress Tracking You Can Actually Use
Track sleep stages, stress levels, and Body Battery—Garmin’s holistic measure of daily energy levels. This data helps you better time workouts, rest days, and recovery.
Available on:
- Fenix Series
- Forerunner 245+ and higher
- Venu 2 and 3
- Epix Gen 2+
- Instinct 2, Instinct 3, Instinct Crossover (E)
Perfect for: Better performance and smarter rest.
7. Customizable Widgets and Shortcuts
Many Garmin users don’t realize how customizable their watch interface is. You can set up widgets, quick-access controls, and menus to make your daily use more efficient.
Available on:
- All modern Garmin watches, including:
- Fenix, Forerunner, Epix, Enduro, Venu, Instinct 2, Instinct 3, Instinct E
Perfect for: Personalizing your Garmin experience.
8. Fenix 8 Exclusive Tools (And Why It Might Be the Best Garmin GPS)
The new Garmin Fenix 8 is one of the most advanced Garmin GPS watches ever made. Exclusive Garmin Fenix 8 features include:
- Multi-band GPS with superior signal lock
- Solar charging (Sapphire Solar models)
- Real-time stamina & hill score
- Advanced topo and ski maps
- Jet lag advisor & HRV status
- Running dynamics (wrist-based)
- Upgraded barometric altimeter and pulse ox
Available on:
- Fenix 8 Series only
Perfect for: Elite athletes, adventurers, and those who want it all.
Final Thoughts: Unlock the Full Potential of Your Garmin
Your Garmin GPS watch is more than just a tracker—it’s a performance powerhouse. Whether you’re syncing a custom route using Garmin with Run Planner, tweaking your Garmin workout suggestions, or building custom Garmin interval training sets, these hidden tools give you an edge.
With newer budget models like the Instinct 3 and Instinct Crossover (E) gaining powerful features once exclusive to the Fenix line, there’s never been a better time to explore what your Garmin can really do.
Want to elevate your watch even further? Browse StrapsCo’s rugged, stylish, and premium Garmin watch straps—made for everything from gym sessions to mountain summits.
Comments
I have an Approach S42 …using it when I golf. Does this model record my actual steps during the day?