Maximize Your Running Experience with the Garmin Forerunner 165

The Garmin Forerunner 165 is an incredibly reliable and accessible running watch that provides serious metrics without overwhelming its users. Designed to cater to those who want to track their runs without the added complexity, this watch boasts a bright, colorful touchscreen and supports essential running fundamentals such as GPS, heart rate, sleep, and stress tracking, as well as structured workouts.

Source: lifehacker.com

Although the Forerunner 165 has been succeeded by the Forerunner 170, it remains a fan favorite among runners. However, many users may not be utilizing the watch to its full potential. In this article, we’ll delve into five essential hacks and features that can help you unlock the full potential of your Garmin Forerunner 165.

1. Add the Flashlight to Your Controls Menu

One of the most useful features of the Forerunner 165 is its ability to turn the watch’s display into a flashlight. While it may not have a dedicated LED hardware flashlight like higher-end models, the watch can still display a fully white screen, making it easier to see at night. To access this feature, you’ll need to add the ‘Flashlight’ tile to your Controls menu. To do this, hold the UP button to enter the Controls menu, and then add ‘Flashlight’ as a tile. Once added, you can unlock the red light mode by pressing the DOWN button until it cycles through to it. Red light is significantly easier on the eyes, especially at night, compared to the stark white default.

Red light is significantly easier on the eyes, especially at night, compared to the stark white default.

2. Adjust the Controls Menu to Create Your Own ‘Hotkeys’

Unlike the higher-end Forerunner models, the 165 doesn’t support customizable hardware button shortcuts. However, you can still create your own ‘hotkeys’ by being intentional about ordering your Controls menu items. Place the items you use most, such as the flashlight or Do Not Disturb, at the top of the menu, so they’re always one swipe away. This will save you time and make your watch experience more efficient.

3. Use a Workaround to Get Breadcrumb Navigation

While the Forerunner 165 may not have full-screen mapping like higher-end models, it can still provide breadcrumb navigation when loading a course from Garmin Connect. This feature allows you to follow a planned route’s shape, even on a ‘map-less’ watch. However, keep in mind that it won’t render surrounding streets.

4. Create Custom Activity Profiles

Instead of constantly editing the default activity profile, you can create custom profiles that cater to your specific needs. Duplicate the Run profile and build multiple ones with different fields, alerts, and auto-lap settings. This will save you time and make it easier to track your runs. You can customize these profiles directly on your watch or through the Garmin Connect app.

5. Pause Before Uploading to Strava for More Accurate Data

Finally, to ensure accurate data syncing between Garmin and Strava, pause for two to three minutes before uploading your runs. This allows Garmin to finalize GPS smoothing and segment matching, reducing the likelihood of jagged pace spikes or missed segment credit.

By following these five essential hacks and features, you can unlock the full potential of your Garmin Forerunner 165 and take your running experience to the next level.

Garmin Forerunner 165 users, are you utilizing your watch to its full potential? Share your favorite hacks and features in the comments below.