Why Do Runners Choose Garmin's Smartwatch "Forerunner"?

Garmin released its first wearable device, the running watch "Forerunner 201," in 2003. Since then, it has led the running watch industry for over 20 years and continues to be a favorite among many runners.

Even with a wider range of wearable device options available today, why do runners still choose the "Forerunner" series?

We spoke with Akio Kawaguchi and Tomoko Taniguchi from Garmin Japan.

Garmin watches first made their debut in Japan in 2004, a year later than in the U.S. (it was released as "Forerunner" at the time).

“Around 2004, there were hardly any wearable devices available. Our brand ambassador and professional runner Yuki Kawauchi mentioned that he had been calculating his pace based on distance and time until Garmin was introduced, which he found groundbreaking” (Kawaguchi).

Since then, advancements in technology have enabled various monitoring capabilities all from one watch, but the most crucial feature in running watches remains GPS.

“The Multi-GNSS multi-band introduced two years ago allows the reception of GPS signals from over four satellites simultaneously, compared to the two satellites previously used.

"Additionally, the ability to receive two signals from a single satellite, which was previously limited to one, is now possible.

"In essence, this means a fourfold increase in signal reception capacity, reducing errors in location and pace information.

"Moreover, capturing GPS signals used to take a frustrating amount of time before starting a run, but now it takes just a few seconds” (Kawaguchi).

Visualizing Body Condition through Algorithms

Another feature that holds high utilization in running watches, in addition to GPS, is the heart rate monitor. Many athletes use heart rate training to improve their running times. In fact, various insights about the body can be derived from heart rate data.

“From heart rate, we can glean an array of analyses and measurements, such as sleep quality, stress levels, and HRV (heart rate variability) status. Therefore, Garmin is committed to enhancing the accuracy of heart rate sensors and strengthening algorithm analysis” (Taniguchi).

In 2020, Garmin acquired "Firstbeat," a leading company in physiological analysis, enabling algorithmic analysis derived from their extensive big data.

“Using this algorithm, we can output to users insights about their training readiness, running performance, and what types of training would be most effective next” (Kawaguchi).

Suggestions for Personalized Training Regimens

“For instance, if Tomoko and I purchased the same 'Forerunner' at the same time and each wore it daily, despite looking identical, the accumulated individual data over several months would create entirely different, personalized gadgets” (Kawaguchi).

This personalized watch, through Firstbeat's algorithms, offers suggestions tailored to individual conditions.

“A recommended feature is the 'Training Readiness' function, which analyzes how ready the body is for training and indicates the appropriate load for that day.

"For example, if someone had too much to drink the previous day, it could detect insufficient recovery from sleep and suggest taking a rest. Also, if a marathon date and target time are set, it will construct a training menu leading up to the event day” (Kawaguchi).

Focusing Development on Long Battery Life & Apps

It's essential to wear a device constantly, not just during the day but also while sleeping, to keep track of one's physical condition. Therefore, Garmin is putting significant effort into developing long battery life.

"Generally, as the accuracy and specs of GPS improve, the operating time decreases. This means that devices with long operating times may sometimes have lower GPS accuracy. To address this, Garmin has implemented a technology called SatIQ, which is a satellite automatic selection mode.

"This technology increases accuracy in areas where GPS signals are hard to capture and automatically reduces accuracy in open areas where signals are easier to capture. With this technology, it’s possible to maintain GPS accuracy while ensuring operating time" (Kawaguchi).

The gadgets themselves offer around 5 days of use for shorter ones, about 1 month for longer models, and unlimited usage for solar-powered models, easing the hassle of charging.

The user interface of the smartphone app "Garmin Connect," which has undergone continuous updates reflecting user feedback, is also highly praised.

"Many runners check their monthly running distance and training readiness on their smartphones. Therefore, we consider the watch and app to be equally important" (Kawaguchi).

"As the number of users increases, we also receive more user biometric data and feedback, contributing to product improvements and the development of new features.

"Our company operates on a fully integrated vertical management structure, from development design to customer service, and we have many runners in-house. This enables us to directly communicate user feedback to our engineers, which we consider a significant strength" (Taniguchi).

The Future of Smartwatches as Envisioned by Garmin

Moving forward, it is expected that Garmin's devices will transition from "measurement to suggestion."

"In the West, where preventive medicine is commonplace, the adoption rate of wearable devices is high, and even children often wear them.

"This means that wearable devices exist to help individuals protect their own health. Therefore, I believe running watches will evolve beyond just GPS functions and heart rate tracking to become lifestyle items for condition management and performance enhancement.

"I hope everyone can make use of Garmin for their daily health" (Kawaguchi).