Garmin Forerunner 945 Review: How to Stay on Track

Garmin Forerunner 945 is the perfect tool for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike, offering a comprehensive range of features that can help you optimize your performance and achieve your fitness goals. In this comprehensive review, we’ll take a closer look at all the key features and benefits of this amazing smartwatch, so you can see for yourself why it’s the ultimate tool for staying on track with your fitness journey.

Features of the Garmin Forerunner 945

The Garmin Forerunner 945 is packed with features that make it the perfect smartwatch for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. One of the standout features of the Forerunner 945 is its advanced training and performance tracking capabilities. With built-in GPS, the watch can accurately track your runs, walks, and hikes, and provide you with real-time data on your pace, distance, and elevation. The watch also has a range of pre-loaded sports profiles, including swimming, cycling, and strength training, so you can easily track your progress and set goals for each activity.

Another great feature of the Forerunner 945 is its music storage and playback capabilities. The watch has enough storage space for up to 1,000 songs, so you can leave your phone at home and still enjoy your favorite tunes on the go. The watch also has a range of connectivity options, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, so you can easily sync your data and connect to other devices.

Finally, the Forerunner 945 is designed to be rugged and durable, with a waterproof rating of 5 ATM and a scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass DX screen. The watch is also compatible with a range of accessories, including heart rate monitors and bike sensors, so you can customize your training experience to suit your needs.

Design and usability of the Garmin Forerunner 945

In terms of design, the Garmin Forerunner 945 is sleek and modern, with a round face and a stainless steel bezel. The watch is available in three colors – black, blue, and red – and comes with interchangeable bands, so you can customize the look to suit your style. The watch face is easy to read, even in bright sunlight, thanks to its high-resolution display.

In terms of usability, the Forerunner 945 is intuitive and easy to navigate. The watch has five physical buttons that allow you to access its various features and menus, and the interface is user-friendly and responsive. The watch also has a range of customizable settings, so you can tailor the display and data fields to suit your preferences.

Battery life and charging of the Garmin Forerunner 945

One of the key benefits of the Garmin Forerunner 945 is its long battery life. The watch can last up to two weeks in smartwatch mode, or up to 36 hours in GPS mode with music playback. This makes it the perfect device for long training sessions or multi-day events.

Charging the Forerunner 945 is also quick and easy, thanks to its proprietary charging cable. The watch can be fully charged in just two hours, and the cable connects securely to the back of the watch using magnets.

GPS and tracking accuracy of the Garmin Forerunner 945

One of the most important features of any GPS smartwatch is its accuracy, and the Garmin Forerunner 945 does not disappoint. The watch uses both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems to provide accurate tracking data, and it also has a barometric altimeter to provide elevation data. The watch can also track your running dynamics, including cadence, stride length, and ground contact time, so you can analyze your form and identify areas for improvement.

Sports and fitness tracking capabilities of the Garmin Forerunner 945

The Garmin Forerunner 945 is designed to be the ultimate fitness companion, with a range of features and capabilities that can help you achieve your fitness goals. In addition to its advanced running dynamics tracking, the watch also has a range of pre-loaded sports profiles, including swimming, cycling, and strength training.

The watch can track your heart rate continuously throughout the day, and it also has a range of advanced training features, including VO2 max and training status, that can provide insights into your fitness level and progress. The watch also has a range of performance metrics, including lactate threshold and anaerobic threshold, that can help you optimize your training and improve your performance.

Music and connectivity options of the Garmin Forerunner 945

In addition to its advanced tracking and training capabilities, the Garmin Forerunner 945 also has a range of music and connectivity options. The watch has enough storage space for up to 1,000 songs, so you can leave your phone at home and still enjoy your favorite tunes on the go. The watch also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, so you can easily sync your data and connect to other devices.

Garmin Connect app and compatibility with other apps

The Garmin Forerunner 945 is designed to work seamlessly with the Garmin Connect app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. The app allows you to sync your data, view your progress, and set goals for your workouts and training plans. The app also has a range of social features, including challenges and leaderboards, that can help you stay motivated and engaged.

In addition to the Garmin Connect app, the Forerunner 945 is also compatible with a range of other apps, including Strava, TrainingPeaks, and MyFitnessPal. This makes it easy to integrate your data and track your progress across multiple platforms.

Garmin Forerunner 945 vs. other Garmin watches

The Garmin Forerunner 945 is one of the most advanced and feature-packed GPS smartwatches on the market. However, it’s not the only option available from Garmin. Here’s how it compares to some of the other popular Garmin watches:

Forerunner 245: The Forerunner 245 is a more affordable option that still offers advanced running dynamics and performance tracking features. However, it has a shorter battery life and fewer sports profiles than the Forerunner 945.
Forerunner 945 LTE: The Forerunner 945 LTE is a newer version of the Forerunner 945 that includes LTE connectivity. This allows you to make and receive phone calls and messages directly from your watch, without needing to carry your phone with you. However, it’s more expensive than the standard Forerunner 945.
Fenix 6: The Fenix 6 is a more rugged and durable option that’s designed for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. It has a longer battery life than the Forerunner 945, and it also includes features like a compass and barometer. However, it’s also significantly more expensive.

Pros and cons of the Garmin Forerunner 945

Like any smartwatch, the Garmin Forerunner 945 has its pros and cons. Here are some of the key advantages and disadvantages of this device:

Pros

Advanced training and performance tracking features
Long battery life
Music storage and playback capabilities
Rugged and durable design
Compatibility with a range of apps and accessories

Cons

Expensive price point
May be too advanced for casual fitness enthusiasts
Some users may prefer a touchscreen interface

Conclusion and final thoughts

Overall, the Garmin Forerunner 945 is an exceptional GPS smartwatch that’s packed with features and capabilities to help you stay on track with your fitness journey. Whether you’re a serious athlete or a casual fitness enthusiast, this watch has something to offer. From its advanced performance tracking features to its music storage and playback capabilities, the Forerunner 945 is the ultimate tool for achieving your fitness goals. While it may be expensive, its long battery life and durable design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their fitness.