Do you have a Garmin Forerunner? Now you can access new swimming and meditation features at no cost – we explain how.
These Garmin Forerunner watches have significantly improved for swimming.
The Garmin Forerunner series, known for its exceptional running watches, is receiving software updates that optimize swimming workout tracking and add a new meditation activity. This is the latest public beta update for several Forerunner models, including the Forerunner 965, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 165, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 255.
The new release, Public Beta Version 21.14, incorporates multiple bug fixes, updated mobile translations, and a new feature to view lunar phases. However, the enhancements in swimming tracking and the addition of the meditation activity are the highlights.
Garmin notes that this update introduces "improvements in pool swimming training support with pace alerts and critical swim speed." Optimizations have also been made to the pool swim rest screen and alert tones. Although the Forerunner series is primarily distinguished as running watches, these updates promise better functionality for swimming workouts.
Additionally, a new Meditation activity and videos of this practice have been added, allowing users to track their meditation sessions more effectively and receive guidance for those seeking a little extra assistance.
Garmin has a public beta software program that offers users access to software features that are not yet available to the general public. This program is compatible with all high-end Garmin watch models, and signing up is straightforward. To join, users must log in to Garmin Connect from a computer, select the device icon, choose the watch they wish to enroll, and click on 'Join Beta Software Program.' After accepting the terms, they will be ready.
For those already enrolled, the 21.14 update can be downloaded through the "Settings" menu option on the device if the update did not happen automatically.
Even if the new swimming or meditation features are not of interest, improvements in navigation and heart rate measurement are also beneficial. Among the complete details of the update are:
- Enhancements in pool swimming training support with pace and critical swim speed alerts.
- Optimization of the pool swim rest screen and alert tones.
- Inclusion of the Meditation activity.
- New lunar phase visualizations.
- Automatic application of lactate threshold estimates post-workout.
- Automatic application of threshold power estimates post-workout.
- Fixes for issues related to daily suggested workouts and timer sound alerts.
- Updates in mobile translations.
- Addition of meditation videos.
