- In Garmin watches, much of the configuration and customization is done from your app
- Paradoxically, you may need a second app to customize its features.
- What are those tasks that you have to perform immediately after taking your new watch out of its box?
There are those who compare Garmin watches like onions, in that we must get rid of several layers to get to what is good, or what is important; what we pay for. If you don’t take this bother, you will probably never discover the full potential of these accessories from one of the best brands in its segment. Precisely, this is a guide with the first steps with your new Garmin watch that you should know.
The first thing to consider is that much of the configuration and customization is done from your app. We are talking about Garmin Connect, as it is called. You will have to install it from the beginning on your mobile.
The second thing you should consider, As paradoxical as it is, it is that you may need a second application. We are referring, in this case, to Garmin Connect IQ. It is the one that allows you to customize its characteristics.
For this reason, in the following paragraphs we want to offer you a review of those tasks that you have to carry out immediately when you take your new Garmin watch out of its box. You’ll hate us at first, but you’ll end up thanking us.
5 key tricks with a new Garmin watch
finish configuration
In the Garmin Connect app, setup isn’t done until it’s done. As soon as you unbox it and turn it on, click the icon in the top banner, select your watch -synchronize it if necessary- and go to Finish setup. You will be guided through important processes for the use of the clock in all its dimensions. These functions are in the Menu, as in any equipment, but delaying their configuration can be a mistake.
Adjust your goals or objectives
When you download Connect, it will ask you to set some goals or targets for daily steps, weekly intensity for training, etc. You can find all of those goals in your watch Settings under Health & Fitness.
Although you can leave everything set to a default, we recommend that you set your goals. Otherwise, Garmin will not be able to insist that you train. Remember that the World Health Organization recommends, in adults from 18 to 64 years, 150 to 300 minutes of intense activity throughout the week.
At the same time, you should update these parameters to the extent that goals or objectives are renewed.
Add a training plan…
Beyond measuring your weight and how much you train per week, heart rate and other relevant but not transcendental data in most cases; if you have invested in a Garmin watch it is because you are going to train hard.
The latest Garmin watches have suggested daily workouts that indicate duration and intensity. Obviously they cannot replace a personal trainer nor are they intended to do so, but they can complement what you have agreed with a professional without actually replacing it. In the Training Plans section you will find multiple alternatives to choose from depending on the distances to be traveled and other factors. Garmin Coach advises you while you carry out your training routines. The more data you provide. the more efficient it will be.
… or create your own
If none of the alternatives in the Training Plans convince you, you can always add some that you devised. This makes Garmin a perfect interface for those who want to tweak all the details.
The truth is that editing the training plans that come by default in the app does not work well. We could say that it is boring and even incomplete. Really, before you start editing, you should add custom plans on your own. In Do Workout you can customize everything around those routines.
Change your information screen
Finally, at least for now, you will notice that during each exercise or activity there is a screen showing weight information about that training session: paces, distances, stopwatches or heart rate.
The way this screen shows you information might not be satisfactory, but that’s not a problem. You can prioritize some data over others depending on the sport you are training or in that instance.
Changing information screen from Data screen, Add data screen; choosing one of the many available, you will be able to know at a glance what your rhythm isthe distance traveled, and many additional things.
If you want to go further, you can combine data that would normally appear on separate screens. This will drastically reduce the time you spend looking at the screen while you train, which threatens your safety.
What do you think of these first steps with your new Garmin watch? Would you like to know more about it? Leave us your comment to inform you of other steps that could help you take advantage of these accessories!
