Here’s My Ultimate Checklist for Training and Running a Race With a Garmin Watch

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Here’s My Ultimate Checklist for Training and Running a Race With a Garmin Watch

Lifehacker·Meredith Dietz·6 months ago

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Meredith Dietz

Meredith Dietz Senior Staff Writer

Experience

Meredith is a marathon runner and stand-up comedian. As Lifehacker’s Senior Staff Writer, she covers personal fitness tech, home gym equipment, and more.

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May 8, 2026

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Credit: Meredith Dietz

Table of Contents

Last weekend, I strapped two Garmin running watches to my wrists and raced a 10K—the top-of-the-line Forerunner 970 on one arm, and the budget-friendly Forerunner 165 Music on the other. Whether you're toeing the line at your first 5K or chasing a marathon PR, one thing I learned is that even the most powerful running watch in the world won't help you on race day if you haven't set it up properly beforehand. Here's the checklist I wish I'd had before race day.

How to train with a Garmin watch before a race

Once you've registered for a race, it's time to start training.…

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Here’s My Ultimate Checklist for Training and Running a Race With a Garmin Watch