What To Know
- After changing the unit settings in the Garmin Connect app, it’s essential to sync your Forerunner 945 to ensure the changes are applied to the watch itself.
- If not, you can manually start the sync by tapping on the sync icon in the top right corner of the app.
- If the unit changes haven’t been applied to your watch after syncing, double-check that you selected the correct unit option in the app.
Are you a runner who prefers the metric system but finds your Garmin Forerunner 945 stubbornly stuck in miles? Don’t fret! Switching your watch’s display from miles to kilometers is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can track your runs and distances in the units you prefer.
Understanding the Importance of Unit Preferences
Before diving into the steps, let’s understand why adjusting your unit settings is crucial. Running with your Garmin Forerunner 945 in kilometers when it’s set to miles can lead to inaccurate distance measurements, affecting your training plans and progress tracking.
Navigating the Garmin Connect App
The easiest way to change your Garmin Forerunner 945’s unit settings is through the Garmin Connect app, available on both iOS and Android devices. Follow these steps:
1. Open the Garmin Connect App: Launch the app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Access Your Device Settings: Tap on the profile icon in the top left corner of the app. This will open a menu where you’ll find your connected devices.
3. Select Your Forerunner 945: Locate your Garmin Forerunner 945 in the list of devices and tap on it.
4. Navigate to Settings: Within your device’s settings, locate the “Settings” option.
5. Choose Units: Scroll down until you find the “Units” option. Tap on it.
6. Select Kilometers: You’ll now see a list of available unit options. Select “Kilometers” from the list.
7. Confirm Changes: The app will confirm your selection. Your Garmin Forerunner 945 will now display distances in kilometers.
Syncing Your Device
After changing the unit settings in the Garmin Connect app, it’s essential to sync your Forerunner 945 to ensure the changes are applied to the watch itself. Here’s how:
1. Ensure Bluetooth Connectivity: Make sure your smartphone or tablet is connected to your Forerunner 945 via Bluetooth.
2. Open the Garmin Connect App: Launch the app on your device.
3. Initiate Sync: The app should automatically detect your watch and initiate a sync. If not, you can manually start the sync by tapping on the sync icon in the top right corner of the app.
4. Wait for Completion: Allow the sync process to complete. Once done, your Forerunner 945 will display distances in kilometers.
Checking Your Watch
After syncing, it’s always a good idea to verify that the changes have been applied correctly.
1. Turn on Your Watch: Power on your Garmin Forerunner 945.
2. Navigate to the Distance Display: Access the screen that displays distance during your runs or walks.
3. Check the Unit: Observe the unit displayed next to the distance measurement. It should now show “km” instead of “mi.”
Adjusting Other Metrics
While changing the distance unit is the most common adjustment, you might also want to switch other metrics to kilometers. This includes:
- Pace: Instead of minutes per mile (min/mi), your pace will now be displayed as minutes per kilometer (min/km).
- Speed: Your speed will be measured in kilometers per hour (km/h) instead of miles per hour (mph).
- Elevation Gain: The elevation gain will be shown in meters (m) instead of feet (ft).
These changes can be made within the “Units” section of the Garmin Connect app, similar to the distance unit adjustment.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While changing units is generally straightforward, you might encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- No Connection: If your smartphone or tablet isn’t connecting to your Forerunner 945, ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both devices and that they are within range. Also, check if your device is paired with your watch.
- Sync Errors: If the sync process fails, try restarting both your phone and your watch. If the issue persists, check for app updates or contact Garmin support for assistance.
- Unit Changes Not Reflecting: If the unit changes haven’t been applied to your watch after syncing, double-check that you selected the correct unit option in the app. You can also try re-syncing your watch.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Metric System
Changing your Garmin Forerunner 945 from miles to kilometers is a quick and easy process that allows you to track your runs and fitness progress accurately in the units you prefer. Now that you’ve conquered the metric system, you can focus on achieving your fitness goals with the right information at hand.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I change the unit settings directly on my Garmin Forerunner 945?
A: While you can access some settings on the watch itself, changing the unit settings is not available directly on the Forerunner 945. You need to use the Garmin Connect app to make these adjustments.
Q: Will changing the units affect my past data?
A: No, changing the unit settings will not affect any data you’ve already recorded. Your past runs and activities will remain in the original units they were recorded in.
Q: What if I want to switch back to miles?
A: You can easily switch back to miles by following the same steps outlined in this guide, simply selecting “Miles” instead of “Kilometers” in the “Units” section of the Garmin Connect app.
Q: Can I change the unit settings for other metrics like heart rate or calories?
A: No, the unit settings primarily affect distance, pace, speed, and elevation. Other metrics, such as heart rate and calories, are typically displayed in standard units.
Q: What other settings can I adjust in the Garmin Connect app?
A: The Garmin Connect app allows you to customize various settings, including notifications, watch faces, workout profiles, and more. Explore the app’s menu to discover the full range of customization options.
