Garmin Forerunner 920xt Review: Is it the Right Watch for You

Are you an avid runner, cyclist, or triathlete looking to take your training to the next level? Look no further than the Garmin Forerunner 920xt. This sleek and powerful GPS watch is designed to help you stay ahead of the pack and reach your fitness goals with ease. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the features and benefits of the Garmin Forerunner 920xt, exploring how it can enhance your training, track your progress, and provide invaluable insights into your performance.

Key features and specifications of the Garmin Forerunner 920xt

The Garmin Forerunner 920xt is packed with an impressive array of features that make it a standout choice for athletes of all levels. Let’s take a closer look at some of its key features and specifications:

# 1. Advanced running dynamics

The Forerunner 920xt provides advanced running dynamics metrics that go beyond simple pace and distance tracking. It offers insights into your running form, including cadence, vertical oscillation, and ground contact time. These metrics can help you identify areas for improvement and enhance your running efficiency. Additionally, the watch measures your VO2 max and predicts race times, allowing you to set realistic goals and monitor your progress over time.

# 2. Swim metrics

In addition to its running features, the Forerunner 920xt is also designed for swimmers. It offers advanced swim metrics, including stroke count, stroke rate, and SWOLF score, which measures swimming efficiency. The watch can track your indoor and outdoor swims, providing detailed data on your performance, such as distance, pace, and stroke type. Whether you’re training for a triathlon or simply looking to improve your swim technique, the 920xt has you covered.

# 3. Connected features

The Garmin Forerunner 920xt is equipped with a range of connected features that allow you to stay connected and motivated during your workouts. It can sync with your smartphone to receive notifications for calls, texts, emails, and social media alerts directly on your wrist. You can also wirelessly upload your workouts to Garmin Connect, a free online fitness community, where you can analyze your data, set goals, and share your progress with others. The watch is also compatible with Garmin’s Connect IQ platform, which allows you to customize your device with apps, widgets, and watch faces to suit your preferences.

Comparison with other Garmin models and competitor products

When choosing a GPS watch, it’s important to consider how the Garmin Forerunner 920xt stacks up against other Garmin models and competitor products in the market. Let’s compare the 920xt with some popular alternatives:

# Garmin Forerunner 935

The Garmin Forerunner 935 is often touted as the successor to the 920xt and offers many similar features. However, the 935 comes with a lighter and more compact design, making it more comfortable to wear for extended periods. It also boasts a longer battery life, making it ideal for ultra-distance events. On the other hand, the 920xt offers a more affordable price point without compromising on essential features, making it a great choice for budget-conscious athletes.

# Polar Vantage V

The Polar Vantage V is another GPS watch that competes directly with the Garmin Forerunner 920xt. It offers similar features, including advanced running dynamics and swim metrics. However, the Vantage V stands out with its integrated optical heart rate monitor, which eliminates the need for a separate chest strap. It also offers a sleek and stylish design that may appeal to those looking for a more fashion-forward option. Ultimately, the choice between the Vantage V and the 920xt comes down to personal preference and specific training needs.

How to set up and use the Garmin Forerunner 920xt

Setting up and using the Garmin Forerunner 920xt is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps. Here’s a quick guide to get you started:

Charge Your Watch: Before beginning to use your Forerunner 920xt, charge it fully using its included USB charging cable.
Install Garmin Express: Visit the Garmin website and download Garmin Express, a free software that will enable you to manage and upgrade the software of your device. Install this on your computer before connecting your watch via USB cable in order to create an account.
Create Your Profile: Follow the on-screen instructions to create your user profile, which includes details about your age, weight, height and activity level. This data will allow for accurate measurements during workout sessions.
Connect your Forerunner 920xt to Your Smartphone: Download the Garmin Connect app onto your phone, pair it with the Forerunner 920xt via Bluetooth, and receive notifications and sync workouts wirelessly. This will allow for notifications as well as wireless sync of workout data.
Customize Your Data Screens: With Garmin Connect or Garmin Express, you can personalize the screens on your watch to meet your specific workout needs. Select which metrics such as pace, distance, heart rate or any others for display during a run/workout session.
Start Your Workout: With your watch properly set up, it’s time to begin exercising! Simply press the start/stop button on the watch’s display to track your activity; it will detect automatically whether it be running, cycling, swimming or other supported sports activities.
Assess Your Data: After each workout, sync your watch with Garmin Connect to gain valuable insights into your performance and view metrics such as pace, distance, heart rate and elevation.

Tips and tricks for maximizing your experience with the Garmin Forerunner 920xt

To get the most out of your Garmin Forerunner 920xt, here are some tips and tricks that can help enhance your training experience:

Customize your activity profiles: The 920xt allows you to create custom activity profiles for different sports and workouts. Take advantage of this feature to tailor the watch to your specific needs. You can choose which metrics to display, set alerts for pace or heart rate zones, and customize the auto lap and auto pause settings.
Utilize the Virtual Partner feature: The Virtual Partner feature allows you to race against a virtual competitor during your workouts. Set a target pace or time, and the watch will display your progress in relation to your virtual partner. This can be a great motivational tool to push yourself and improve your performance.
Take advantage of the recovery advisor: The Forerunner 920xt includes a recovery advisor feature that estimates the amount of time you need to recover after a workout. It takes into account factors such as training load, intensity, and previous workouts. Use this information to plan your training schedule and avoid overtraining.
Explore the Connect IQ store: Garmin’s Connect IQ platform offers a wide range of apps, widgets, and watch faces that can further enhance your Forerunner 920xt. Browse through the Connect IQ store to find additional features and customization options that suit your preferences.
Stay up to date with software updates: Garmin regularly releases software updates for its devices, including the Forerunner 920xt. These updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features. Make sure to regularly check for updates using Garmin Express to ensure that your watch is running the latest software version.

Pricing and availability of the Garmin Forerunner 920xt

The Garmin Forerunner 920xt is available for purchase from various retailers and online stores. The price may vary depending on the region and any ongoing promotions or discounts. It’s recommended to check the official Garmin website or authorized resellers for the most up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, keep an eye out for special deals during holiday seasons or sales events, as you may be able to snag the 920xt at a discounted price.

Conclusion and final thoughts on the Garmin Forerunner 920xt

In conclusion, the Garmin Forerunner 920xt is a powerful and feature-rich GPS watch that can take your training to new heights. Whether you’re a dedicated runner, cyclist, or triathlete, this watch offers advanced metrics and insights that can help you optimize your workouts and reach your fitness goals. From its advanced running dynamics and swim metrics to its connected features and customizable data screens, the 920xt has everything you need to track your progress, stay motivated, and achieve peak performance. So, if you’re looking to stay ahead of the pack and revolutionize your training routine, the Garmin Forerunner 920xt is a game-changer you won’t want to miss. Get ready to take your fitness to the next level with this exceptional GPS watch.

Other Forerunners

Read also: