Exciting news for Garmin Forerunner users: Garmin has released System Software Update 21.19, literally jam-packed with awesome features, a fix, and improvements.
Where’s the big highlight? The Garmin Strength Coach is now present in the Forerunner 965, 955, 265, and 255 models.
Let me take you through it all you need to know about the update and why it is majorly huge.
What’s New in System Software 21.19?
Garmin’s latest update isn’t just about small things—it’s a full-blown upgrade. Here’s what’s new:
1. Strength Coach for Forerunner Watches
Garmin started that strength coaching functionality on higher-end models: Fenix 8 series, Fenix E, and Enduro 3, to name a few, before eventually making its way down to the Forerunner 965, 955, 265, and 255 in this period.
With Strength Coach, you can:
- Do personalized strength training exercises that match your fitness level.
- See a muscle group map during workouts to know which muscles you’re targeting.
- Track reps, sets, rest times, and more with in-depth guidance.
This feature is ideal for everyone who wants to incorporate strength training into their routine!
2. Meditation Activity
Garmin has added a new Meditation Activity to help track mindfulness and relaxation sessions. It’s a great way to de-stress and recharge during busy days.
3. Moon Phase Glance
The new glance for the moon phase shows information on lunar phases. That’s a feature to support outdoor enthusiasts, so the next nighttime run or a camp would all be in the context.
4. Garmin Coach Compatibility for Strength Training
This update also adds in Garmin Coach strength-training plans to give you pro guidance right on your wrist.
Bug Fixes and Improvements
Garmin was also working diligently to patch a number of issues and enhance the user experience. Key changes include:
Swimming Enhancements:
- Added pace alerts and critical swim speed for pool workouts.
- Improved rest screen and alert tones for pool swimming.
Training Metrics:
- Automatic Lactate Threshold estimates after heart-rate-based training.
- Automatic estimates of Functional Threshold Power (FTP) after power-based workouts.
General Fixes:
- Fixed issues with spiked heart rates when saving activities.
- Fixed various sleep tracking-related issues: lost data for late wake-ups.
- Smarter notifications for Android users. Images actually load proper now.
- Fixed glitches in the weather glance and navigation icons for some sports profiles.
- Fixed issues with custom workout and activity color not saving correctly.
What About the Forerunner 165?
While the Forerunner 165 also gets the update, it misses out on some advanced features including:
- Estimates of Lactate Threshold and FTP.
- Garmin Coach compatibility with strength training plans.
- Certain triathlon activity fixes.
That makes sense since the 165 is an entry-level model, but still reaps much of the bug fixes and general improvements.
How to Update Garmin Strength Coach on Forerunners 965 & 265
Updating your Forerunner is super simple. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to Main Menu > Settings > System > Software Update on your device.
- Follow the on-screen steps to download and install the update.
That’s it! The update is available to all Forerunner 965, 955, 265, 255, and 165 users. You don’t need to join Garmin’s beta program to get it.
Why This Update is a Big Deal
This isn’t a bug-fixing update; this is an update aimed at equipping Forerunner users with more ways to stay fit and healthy. If nothing else, Strength Coach makes this a must-have update for anyone serious about fitness, from swimmers and runners to those curious about strength training.
And then there are those little touches that matter: the Moon Phase glance and Meditation Activity. Little they may be, but they contribute much in adding value to the outdoor enthusiast and those into mental wellbeing.
Final Thoughts
Garmin did a great job with System Software Update 21.19. They’ve taken their mid-range and premium watches to the next level by bringing Strength Coach to the Forerunner series. If you have a Forerunner 965, 955, 265, or 255, this update is a no-brainer.
So, what are you waiting for? Update your watch now and get all these amazing features at your fingertips. Whether it is hitting the gym, going to swim, or just chilling in your peaceful meditation session, Garmin has got your back.
Ready to upgrade your workouts? Let’s go!
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