The Garmin Forerunner 170 is a mid-tier GPS running watch that offers a wide range of features and tools, previously reserved for higher-end models. Despite its price tag of $299.99, the Forerunner 170 has impressed many users with its capabilities, including full Training Status, Training Readiness, wrist-based running power, running dynamics, and cycling power-meter support.

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Reprogram the Buttons on Your Forerunner 170

One of the most useful features of the Forerunner 170 is its fully customizable buttons. By reassigning the buttons, you can instantly lock the screen in bad weather, making it easier to navigate in rainy or snowy conditions. To do this, hold the Up (Menu) button and go to Watch Settings > System > Shortcuts. From here, you can assign the ‘Hold Start + Up’ button to Touch Screen Toggle, which will lock the screen instantly when pressed.

Another useful reassignment is to move the Do Not Disturb function to the Down button. This can be particularly useful when you’re running and receive a notification, as it allows you to quickly silence the watch without having to navigate through multiple menus.

Beyond these two reassignments, there are many other combinations worth trying. For example, you can assign the Start + Down button to broadcast your heart rate, which is popular in some group exercise settings. Alternatively, you can use the Start + Up button to pull up Garmin Pay for a post-run coffee.

Use Your Forerunner 170’s ‘Record Only’ Mode as a Breadcrumb Trail

One of the most useful features of the Forerunner 170 is its ‘Record Only’ mode, which allows you to lay down a breadcrumb trail of everywhere you’ve been without the battery cost of turn-by-turn navigation. This can be particularly useful when running in unfamiliar areas, as it allows you to retrace your steps and find your way back home.

Another navigation feature worth setting up is Turn Around alerts. This tool lets you skip planning an out-and-back route entirely, by setting a time or distance before you start and having the watch buzz at the halfway point, so you’ll land back exactly where you began.

Finally, you can also set up Find My Phone, which pings your connected phone with sound and vibration even if it’s on silent. This can be particularly useful if you’re running and your phone is out of sight, as it allows you to quickly locate it and avoid getting lost.

Let Your Forerunner 170’s ‘Quick Workouts’ Do the Thinking for You

One of the most useful features of the Forerunner 170 is its ‘Quick Workouts’ function, which allows you to build a workout on the fly from just a time range and an intensity level (easy, moderate, hard, or very hard). This can be particularly useful when you’re short on time or want to mix up your routine, as it allows you to create a workout that matches where your body actually is that day.

Another useful feature of the Forerunner 170 is its Cycling Coach tool, which can be repurposed to track your cross-training workouts. This can be particularly useful if you’re a cyclist who wants to track your progress and improve your performance, as it allows you to create a structured, adaptive plan based on how well the watch already knows you.

Don’t Let Easy Workouts Drain Your Garmin’s Battery

Finally, it’s worth noting that easy workouts can drain your Garmin’s battery, particularly if you’re running a familiar route or workout. To avoid this, it’s worth turning off Always-On GPS when you’re on a familiar route, as this will help to conserve battery life and avoid running out of power during a big race.

Additionally, it’s worth keeping an eye on Garmin Connect update notes, as these can provide valuable insights into new features and tools that can help you get the most out of your Forerunner 170. By following these tips and tricks, you can get the most out of your Garmin Forerunner 170 and take your running to the next level.