Garmin Forerunner 265 (46mm, Black and Powder Gray)

How accurate is the GPS tracking on the Forerunner 265?

The Forerunner 265 uses multi-band GNSS with SatIQ technology, which provides superior positioning accuracy compared to standard GPS watches. It connects to multiple satellite systems including GPS, GLONASS and Galileo simultaneously. This technology performs exceptionally well in challenging environments like dense urban areas, forests, or mountainous terrain where single-band GPS might struggle. Users report highly accurate distance and pace measurements that match professional timing systems.

What is the training readiness feature and how does it work?

Training readiness analyses multiple data points including heart rate variability (HRV), sleep quality, recovery metrics and recent training load to generate a daily score. This score indicates whether you're primed for intense training or should focus on recovery. The system learns from your patterns over time, becoming more accurate as it gathers data. Each morning, you receive a comprehensive report with recommendations for your training intensity based on your body's current state.

Can I use this watch for swimming and water sports?

Yes, the Forerunner 265 is water-rated to 5 ATM (50 metres) and includes dedicated swimming profiles for pool and open-water swimming. It automatically detects stroke type, counts strokes, calculates SWOLF scores and tracks distance in pools. For open-water swimming, GPS tracking continues to work, providing accurate distance and pace data. The watch also includes other water sport profiles like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

How long does the battery actually last during different activities?

Battery life varies significantly based on usage patterns. In smartwatch mode with basic notifications and health monitoring, expect up to 13 days. With continuous GPS tracking during runs or cycling, battery life drops to approximately 20 hours. Using music playback reduces this further to about 8 hours. The always-on display feature and frequent use of the AMOLED screen will decrease overall battery life, but most users find they need to charge weekly with regular training schedules.

Does this watch work with third-party fitness apps like Strava?

The Forerunner 265 integrates seamlessly with popular fitness platforms including Strava, Nike Run Club and TrainingPeaks. Activities automatically sync to these platforms through the Garmin Connect app. You can also download apps directly to the watch through the Connect IQ store. The watch supports various data fields and metrics that transfer to these platforms, maintaining detailed workout analytics across your preferred fitness ecosystem.

What's included in the morning report feature?

The morning report provides a comprehensive overview of your sleep quality, recovery status, training outlook, HRV status, training readiness score and local weather conditions. It also includes personalised workout suggestions based on your current state and training goals. This report appears automatically when you wake up and helps you plan your day's activities. The data combines overnight monitoring with your training history to provide actionable insights.

How does the incident detection feature work for safety?

Incident detection uses the watch's accelerometer and gyroscope to identify potential accidents during select outdoor activities like running, cycling, or hiking. When an incident is detected, the watch displays a countdown timer and alert. If you don't dismiss the alert, it automatically sends a message with your GPS location to pre-configured emergency contacts. This feature requires your paired smartphone to have network coverage and data connectivity to function properly.

Can I store and play music directly from the watch?

Yes, the Forerunner 265 includes music storage for up to 500 songs and supports streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music and Deezer (premium subscriptions required). You can download playlists directly to the watch via Wi-Fi and listen through Bluetooth headphones without carrying your phone. The music controls are easily accessible during workouts and you can sync your favourite playlists for offline listening during long runs or gym sessions.