Tracker Forerunner Introduction

The Garmin GPS Tracker Forerunner 945 is a premium multisport GPS smartwatch designed for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It features advanced tracking capabilities for a variety of sports, including running, cycling, and swimming, along with built-in maps and navigation tools. The watch also provides comprehensive health metrics, such as heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking, ensuring users can optimize their training. Priced at approximately $600, it combines functionality with cutting-edge technology for an enhanced fitness experience.

Always consult your physician before you begin or modify any exercise program.

Device Overview

Button	Function
LIGHT	Select to turn the device on.
	Select to turn the backlight on and off.
	Hold to view the controls menu.
START	Select to start and stop the activity timer.
	Select to choose an option or to acknowledge a message.
BACK	Select to return to the previous screen.
	Select to record a lap, rest, or transition during an activity.
DOWN	Select to scroll through the widgets, data screens, options, and settings.
	Hold to open the music controls (Music, page 65).
UP	Select to scroll through the widgets, data screens, options, and settings.
	Hold to view the menu.
	Hold to manually change sports during an activity.

GPS Status and Status Icons
For outdoor activities, the status ring turns green when GPS is ready. A flashing icon means the device is searching for a signal. A solid icon means the signal was found or the sensor is connected.

GPS GPS status
	Battery status
	Smartphone connection status
	Wi‑Fi® technology status
	Heart rate status
	Foot pod status
	Running Dynamics Pod status
	Speed and cadence sensor status
	Bike lights status
	Bike radar status
	Extended display mode status
	Power meter status
	tempe™ sensor status
	VIRB® camera status

Setting Up Your Watch
To take full advantage of the Forerunner features, complete these tasks.

Pair the Forerunner device with your smartphone using the Garmin Connect app
Set up safety features
Set up music
Set up Wi‑Fi networks
Set up your Garmin Pay wallet

Specifications

Forerunner Specifications

Battery type Rechargeable, built-in lithium-ion battery
Battery life,watch mode	Up to 2 wk. with activity tracking, smartphone notifications, and wrist- based heart rate
Battery life, watch modewith music	Up to 14 hr. with activity tracking, smartphone notifications, wrist-based heart rate, and music playback
Battery life, activity mode	Up to 36 hr. in GPS modewith wrist-based heartrate
Battery life, activity mode with music	Up to 10 hr. in GPS mode with wrist-based heart rate and music playback
Battery life, UltraTrac mode, no music playback	Up to 60 hr. Up to 50 hr.with wrist-based heartrate
Media storage	Up to 1,000 songs
Water rating	Swim, 5 ATM1
Operating temperature range	From -20º to 45ºC(from -4º to 113ºF)
Charging temperature range	From 0º to 45ºC(from 32º to 113ºF)
Wireless frequency	2.4 GHz @ +9dBm nominal

HRM-Pro Specifications

Battery type User-replaceable CR2032, 3 V
Battery life	Up to 1 yr. at 1 hr./day
Water resistance	5 ATM1
Operating temperature range	From -10° to 50°C (from14° to 122°F)
Wireless frequency	2.4 GHz @ 8 dBmnominal

HRM-Swim Specifications and HRM-Tri Specifications

Battery type User-replaceable CR2032 (3 V)
HRM-Swim battery life	Up to 18 mo. (approximately 3 hr./wk.)
HRM-Tri battery life	Up to 10 mo. for triathlon training (approximately 1 hr./day)
Operating temperature range	From -10° to 50°C (from14° to 122°F)
Wireless frequency/protocol	2.4 GHz @ +1dBm nominal
Water rating	Swim, 5 ATM1

Device Care

NOTICE

Avoid extreme shock and harsh treatment, because it can degrade the life of the product.
Avoid pressing the keys underwater.
Do not use a sharp object to clean the device.
Avoid chemical cleaners, solvents, and insect repellents that can damage plastic components and finishes.
Thoroughly rinse the device with fresh water after exposure to chlorine, salt water, sunscreen, cosmetics, alcohol, or other harsh chemicals. Prolonged exposure to these substances can damage the case.
Do not store the device where prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can occur, because it can cause permanent damage.

Cleaning the Watch

CAUTION

Some users may experience skin irritation after prolonged use of the watch, especially if the user has sensitive skin or allergies. If you notice any skin irritation, remove the watch and give your skin time to heal. To help prevent skin irritation, ensure the watch is clean and dry, and do not overtighten the watch on your wrist.

Wipe the watch using a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution.
Wipe it dry.

After cleaning, allow the watch to dry completely.

TIP: For more information, go to www.garmin.com/fitandcare.

Replacing the Heart Rate Monitor Battery

Remove the sleeve from the heart rate monitor module.
Use a small Phillips (00) screwdriver to remove the four screws on the front of the module.
Remove the cover and battery.
Wait 30 seconds.
Insert the new battery under the two plastic tabs with the positive side facing up.
NOTE: Do not damage or lose the O-ring gasket.
The O-ring gasket should remain around the outside of the raised plastic ring.
Replace the front cover and the four screws.
Observe the orientation of the front cover. The raised screw should fit in the matching raised screw hole on the front cover.
NOTE: Do not overtighten.
Replace the sleeve.
After you replace the heart rate monitor battery, you may need to pair it with the device again.

Changing the Bands

You can replace the bands with new Forerunner bands or compatible QuickFit® bands.

Use the two screwdrivers to loosen the pins.
Remove the pins.
Select an option:
- To install Forerunner bands, align the new bands, and replace the pins using the two screwdrivers.
- To install QuickFit bands, replace the pins, and press the new bands into place.

NOTE: Make sure the band is secure. The latch should close over the watch pin.

Description

The Garmin Forerunner 945 boasts a sleek and durable design, making it suitable for both everyday wear and intense athletic activities. The watch features a vibrant color display that is easy to read in various lighting conditions. It includes advanced health and fitness metrics such as heart rate variability, stress tracking, and women's health tracking.

One of the standout features is its ability to store music directly on the device, allowing users to listen to their favorite tracks without needing a smartphone. Additionally, the Forerunner 945 supports various sports modes and offers detailed performance analytics to help athletes improve their game.

Smart Features

Pairing Your Smartphone with Your Device
To use the connected features of the Forerunner device, it must be paired directly through the Garmin Connect app, instead of from the Bluetooth settings on your smartphone.

From the app store on your smartphone, install and open the Garmin Connect app.
Bring your smartphone within 10 m (33 ft.) of your device.
Select LIGHT to turn on the device.
The first time you turn on the device, it is in pairing mode.
TIP: You can hold UP, and select Settings > Phone > Pair Phone to manually enter pairing mode.
Select an option to add your device to your Garmin Connect account:
If this is the first time you are pairing a device with the Garmin Connect app, follow the on-screen instructions.
If you already paired another device with the Garmin Connect app, from the or menu, select Garmin Devices > Add Device, and follow the on-screen instructions.

Tips for Existing Garmin Connect Users

From the Garmin Connect app, select or .
Select Garmin Devices > Add Device.

Enabling Bluetooth Notifications

Before you can enable notifications, you must pair the Forerunner device with a compatible mobile device (Pairing Your Smartphone with Your Device, page 57).

Hold .
Select Phone > Smart Notifications > Status > On.
Select During Activity.
Select a notification preference.
Select a sound preference.
Select Not During Activity.
Select a notification preference.
Select a sound preference.
Select Privacy.
Select a privacy preference.
Select Timeout.
Select the amount of time the alert for a new notification appears on the screen.
Select Signature to add a signature to your text message replies.

Viewing Notifications

From the watch face, press UP or DOWN to view the notifications widget.
Press START.
Select a notification.
Press START for more options.
Press BACK to return to the previous screen.

Playing Audio Prompts on Your Smartphone During Your Activity

Before you can set up audio prompts, you must have a smartphone with the Garmin Connect app paired to your Forerunner device.

You can set the Garmin Connect app to play motivational status announcements on your smartphone during a run or other activity. Audio prompts include the lap number and lap time, pace or speed, and heart rate data. During an audio prompt, the Garmin Connect app mutes the primary audio of the smartphone to play the announcement. You can customize the volume levels on the Garmin Connect app.

NOTE: If you have a Forerunner device, you can enable audio prompts on the device through your connected headphones, without using a connected smartphone (Playing Audio Prompts During Your Activity, page 18).
NOTE: The Lap Alert audio prompt is enabled by default.

From the Garmin Connect app, select or .
Select Garmin Devices.
Select your device.
Select Activity Options > Audio Prompts.

Managing Notifications
You can use your compatible smartphone to manage notifications that appear on your Forerunner device.

Select an option:

If you are using an iPhone device, go to the iOS notifications settings to select the items to show on the device.
If you are using an Android smartphone, from the Garmin Connect app, select Settings > Notifications.

Turning Off the Bluetooth Phone Connection
You can turn off the Bluetooth phone connection from the controls menu.

NOTE: You can add options to the controls menu.

Hold LIGHT to view the controls menu.
Select to turn off the Bluetooth phone connection on your Forerunner watch.

Refer to the owner's manual for your phone to turn off Bluetooth technology on your phone.

Turning On and Off Smartphone Connection Alerts
You can set the Forerunner device to alert you when your paired smartphone connects and disconnects using Bluetooth technology.

NOTE: Smartphone connection alerts are turned off by default.

Hold .
Select Settings > Phone > Alerts.

Bluetooth Connected Features

The Forerunner device has several Bluetooth connected features for your compatible smartphone using the Garmin Connect app.

Activity uploads: Automatically sends your activity to the Garmin Connect app as soon as you finish recording the activity.
Audio prompts: Allows the Garmin Connect app to play status announcements, such as mile splits and other data, on your smartphone during a run or other activity.
Bluetooth sensors: Allows you to connect Bluetooth compatible sensors, such as a heart rate monitor.
Connect IQ: Allows you to extend your device features with new watch faces, widgets, apps, and data fields.
Find my phone: Locates your lost smartphone that is paired with your Forerunner device and currently within range.
Find my watch: Locates your lost Forerunner device that is paired with your smartphone and currently within range.
GroupTrack: Allows you join a group using LiveTrack, so others can view your position directly on screen and in real time.
PacePro downloads: Allows you to create and download PacePro strategies in the Garmin Connect app and wirelessly send them to your device.
Phone notifications: Displays phone notifications and messages on your Forerunner device.
Safety and tracking features: Allows you to send messages and alerts to friends and family, as well as request assistance from emergency contacts set up in the Garmin Connect app.
Social media interactions: Allows you to post an update to your favorite social media website when you upload an activity to the Garmin Connect app.
Software updates: Allows you to update your device software.
Weather updates: Sends real-time weather conditions and notifications to your device.
Workout and course downloads: Allows you to browse for workouts and courses in the Garmin Connect app and wirelessly send them to your device.

Manually Syncing Data with Garmin Connect

NOTE: You can add options to the controls menu.

Hold LIGHT to view the controls menu.
Select .

Locating a Lost Mobile Device

You can use this feature to help locate a lost mobile device that is paired using Bluetooth wireless technology and currently within range.

NOTE: You can add options to the controls menu.

Hold LIGHT to view the controls menu.
Select Find My Phone.
The Forerunner device begins searching for your paired mobile device. An audible alert sounds on your mobile device, and the Bluetooth signal strength displays on the Forerunner device screen. The Bluetooth signal strength increases as you move closer to your mobile device.
Select BACK to stop searching.

Widgets

Your device comes preloaded with widgets that provide at-a-glance information. Some widgets require a Bluetooth connection to a compatible smartphone. Some widgets are not visible by default. You can add them to the widget loop manually.

ABC: Displays combined altimeter, barometer, and compass information.
Body Battery: With all day wear, displays your current Body Battery level and a graph of your level for the last several hours.
Calendar: Displays upcoming meetings from your smartphone calendar.
Calories: Displays your calorie information for the current day.
Compass: Displays an electronic compass.
Device Usage: Displays the current software version and device usage statistics.
Dog tracking: Displays your dog's location information when you have a compatible dog tracking device paired with your Forerunner device.
Floors climbed: Tracks your floors climbed and progress toward your goal.
Garmin coach: Displays scheduled workouts when you select a Garmin coach training plan in your Garmin Connect account.
Golf: Displays golf scores and statistics for your last round.
Health stats: Displays a dynamic summary of your current health statistics. The measurements include heart rate, Body Battery level, stress, and more.
Heart rate: Displays your current heart rate in beats per minute (bpm) and a graph of your average resting heart rate (RHR).
History: Displays your activity history and a graph of your recorded activities.
Hydration: Allows you to track the amount of water you consume and the progress toward your daily goal.
Intensity minutes: Tracks your time spent participating in moderate to vigorous activities, your weekly intensity minutes goal, and progress toward your goal.
inReach controls: Allows you to send messages on your paired inReach device.
Last activity: Displays a brief summary of your last recorded activity, such as your last run, last ride, or last swim.
Last Run: Displays a brief summary of your last recorded run.
Menstrual cycle tracking: Displays your current cycle. You can view and log your daily symptoms.
Music controls: Provides music player controls for your smartphone or on-device music.
My day: Displays a dynamic summary of your activity today. The metrics include timed activities, intensity minutes, floors climbed, steps, calories burned, and more.
Notifications: Alerts you to incoming calls, texts, social network updates, and more, based on your smartphone notification settings.
Performance: Displays performance measurements that help you track and understand your training activities and race performances.
Pulse oximeter: Allows you to take a manual pulse oximeter reading.
RCT camera controls: Allows you to manually take a photo, record a video clip, and customize settings (Using the Varia Camera Controls, page 83).
Respiration: Your current respiration rate in breaths per minute and seven-day average. You can do a breathing activity to help you relax.
Steps: Tracks your daily step count, step goal, and data for previous days.
Stress: Displays your current stress level and a graph of your stress level. You can do a breathing activity to help you relax.
Sunrise and sunset: Displays sunrise, sunset, and civil twilight times.

Training status: Displays your current training status and training load, which shows you how your training affects your fitness level and performance.
VIRB controls: Provides camera controls when you have a VIRB device paired with your Forerunner device.
Weather: Displays the current temperature and weather forecast.
Xero device: Displays laser location information when you have a compatible Xero device paired with your Forerunner device.

Viewing the Widgets
Your device comes preloaded with several widgets, and more are available when you pair your device with a smartphone.

From the watch face, select UP or DOWN.
The device scrolls through the widget loop and displays summary data for each widget. The performance widget requires several activities with heart rate and outdoor runs with GPS.
Select START to view widget details.

TIP: You can press DOWN to view additional screens for a widget.

About My Day
The My Day widget is a daily snapshot of your activity. This is a dynamic summary that updates throughout the day. As soon as you climb a flight of stairs or record an activity, it appears in the widget. The metrics include recorded activities, intensity minutes for the week, floors climbed, steps, calories burned, and more. You can select START to view additional metrics.

Viewing the Controls Menu
The controls menu contains options, such as turning on do not disturb mode, locking the keys, and turning the device off. You can also open the Garmin Pay wallet.

NOTE: You can add, reorder, and remove the options in the controls menu.

From any screen, hold LIGHT.
Press UP or DOWN to scroll through the options.

Customizing the Controls Menu
You can add, remove, and change the order of the shortcut menu options in the controls menu (Viewing the Controls Menu, page 61).

From the watch face, hold .
Select Settings > Appearance > Controls.
Select a shortcut to customize.
Select an option:
1. Select Reorder to change the location of the shortcut in the controls menu.
2. Select Remove to remove the shortcut from the controls menu.
If necessary, select Add New to add an additional shortcut to the controls menu.

Viewing the Weather Widget
Weather requires a Bluetooth connection to a compatible smartphone.

From the watch face, select UP or DOWN to view the weather widget.
Select START to view weather details.
Select UP or DOWN to view hourly, daily, and weather trend data.

Opening the Music Controls
Music controls require a Bluetooth connection to a compatible smartphone.

From the watch face, hold LIGHT.
Select .
Select UP or DOWN to use the music controls.

Connect IQ Features
You can add Connect IQ features to your watch from Garmin and other providers using the Connect IQ app. You can customize your device with watch faces, data fields, widgets, and device apps.

Watch Faces: Allow you to customize the appearance of the clock.
Data Fields: Allow you to download new data fields that present sensor, activity, and history data in new ways. You can add Connect IQ data fields to built-in features and pages.
Widgets: Provide information at a glance, including sensor data and notifications.
Device Apps: Add interactive features to your watch, such as new outdoor and fitness activity types.

Downloading Connect IQ Features Using Your Computer

Connect the device to your computer using a USB cable.
Go to apps.garmin.com, and sign in.
Select a Connect IQ feature, and download it.
Follow the on-screen instructions.

Wi‑Fi Connectivity Features

Activity uploads to your Garmin Connect account: Automatically sends your activity to your Garmin Connect account as soon as you finish recording the activity.
Audio content: Allows you to sync audio content from third-party providers.
Software updates: You can download and install the latest software.
Workouts and training plans: You can browse for and select workouts and training plans on the Garmin Connect site. The next time your device has a Wi‑Fi connection, the files are sent to your device.

Connecting to a Wi‑Fi Network
You must connect your device to the Garmin Connect app on your smartphone or to the Garmin Express™ application on your computer before you can connect to a Wi‑Fi network.

Hold .
Select Wi-Fi > My Networks > Add Network.
The device displays a list of nearby Wi‑Fi networks.
Select a network.
If necessary, enter the password for the network.
The device connects to the network, and the network is added to the list of saved networks. The device reconnects to this network automatically when it is within range.

Garmin Pay

The Garmin Pay feature allows you to use your watch to pay for purchases in participating locations using credit or debit cards from a participating financial institution.

Setting Up Your Garmin Pay Wallet
You can add one or more participating credit or debit cards to your Garmin Pay wallet. Go to garmin.com/garminpay/banks to find participating financial institutions.

From the Garmin Connect app, select or .
Select Garmin Pay > Get Started.
Follow the on-screen instructions.

Paying for a Purchase Using Your Watch
Before you can use your watch to pay for purchases, you must set up at least one payment card. You can use your watch to pay for purchases in a participating location.

Hold LIGHT.
Select Wallet.
Enter your four-digit passcode.
NOTE: If you enter your passcode incorrectly three times, your wallet locks, and you must reset your passcode in the Garmin Connect app.
Your most recently used payment card appears.
If you have added multiple cards to your Garmin Pay wallet, select DOWN to change to another card (optional).
Within 60 seconds, hold your watch near the payment reader, with the watch facing the reader.
The watch vibrates and displays a check mark when it is finished communicating with the reader.
If necessary, follow the instructions on the card reader to complete the transaction.

TIP: After you successfully enter your passcode, you can make payments without a passcode for 24 hours while you continue to wear your watch. If you remove the watch from your wrist or disable heart rate monitoring, you must enter the passcode again before making a payment.

Adding a Card to Your Garmin Pay Wallet
You can add up to 10 credit or debit cards to your Garmin Pay wallet.

From the Garmin Connect app, select or .
Select Garmin Pay > > Add Card.
Follow the on-screen instructions.

After the card is added, you can select the card on your watch when you make a payment.

Managing Your Garmin Pay Cards

You can temporarily suspend or delete a card.
NOTE: In some countries, participating financial institutions may restrict the Garmin Pay features. 1 From the Garmin Connect app, select or .
Select Garmin Pay.
Select a card.
Select an option:
- To temporarily suspend or unsuspend the card, select Suspend Card. The card must be active to make purchases using your Forerunner device.
- To delete the card, select .

Changing Your Garmin Pay Passcode
You must know your current passcode to change it. If you forget your passcode, you must reset the Garmin Pay feature for your Forerunner device, create a new passcode, and reenter your card information.

From the Forerunner device page in the Garmin Connect app, select Garmin Pay > Change Passcode.
Follow the on-screen instructions.

The next time you pay using your Forerunner device, you must enter the new passcode

History

History includes time, distance, calories, average pace or speed, lap data, and optional sensor information. NOTE: When the device memory is full, your oldest data is overwritten.

Using History

History contains previous activities you have saved on your device.
The device has a history widget for quick access to your activity data (Widgets, page 60).

From the watch face, hold .
Select History > Activities.
Select an activity.
Press START.
Select an option:
1. To view additional information about the activity, select All Stats.
2. To view the impact of the activity on your aerobic and anaerobic fitness, select Training Effect (About Training Effect, page 47).
3. To view your time in each heart rate zone, select Heart Rate (Viewing Your Time in Each Heart Rate Zone, page 71).
4. To select a lap and view additional information about each lap, select Laps.
5. To select a ski or snowboard run and view additional information about each run, select Runs.
6. To select an exercise set and view additional information about each set, select Sets.
7. To view the activity on a map, select Map.
8. To view an elevation plot for the activity, select Elevation Plot.
9. To delete the selected activity, select Delete.

Multisport History

Your device stores the overall multisport summary of the activity, including overall distance, time, calories, and optional accessory data. Your device also separates the activity data for each sport segment and transition so you can compare similar training activities and track how quickly you move through the transitions. Transition history includes distance, time, average speed, and calories.

Viewing Your Time in Each Heart Rate Zone
Viewing your time in each heart rate zone can help you adjust your training intensity.

From the watch face, hold .
Select History > Activities.
Select an activity.
Select Heart Rate.

Viewing Data Totals
You can view the accumulated distance and time data saved to your watch.

From the watch face, hold .
Select History > Totals.
Select an activity.
Select an option to view weekly or monthly totals.

Using the Odometer
The odometer automatically records the total distance traveled, elevation gained, and time in activities.

From the watch face, hold .
Select History > Totals > Odometer.
Select UP or DOWN to view odometer totals.

Deleting History

From the watch face, hold .
Select History > Options.
Select an option:
- Select Delete All Activities to delete all activities from the history.
- Select Reset Totals to reset all distance and time totals.

NOTE: This does not delete any saved activities.

Garmin Connect

You can connect with your friends on Garmin Connect. Garmin Connect gives you the tools to track, analyze, share, and encourage each other. Record the events of your active lifestyle including runs, walks, rides, swims, hikes, triathlons, and more. To sign up for a free account, you can download the app from the app store on your phonegarmin.com/connectapp, or go to connect.garmin.com.

Store your activities: After you complete and save an activity with your watch, you can upload that activity to your Garmin Connect account and keep it as long as you want.
Analyze your data: You can view more detailed information about your activity, including time, distance, elevation, heart rate, calories burned, cadence, running dynamics, an overhead map view, pace and speed charts, and customizable reports.
NOTE: Some data requires an optional accessory such as a heart rate monitor.
Plan your training: You can choose a fitness goal and load one of the day-by-day training plans.
Track your progress: You can track your daily steps, join a friendly competition with your connections, and meet your goals.
Share your activities: You can connect with friends to follow each other's activities or post links to your activities on your favorite social networking sites.
Manage your settings: You can customize your watch and user settings on your Garmin Connect account.

Using Garmin Connect on Your Computer
The Garmin Express application connects your device to your Garmin Connect account using a computer. You can use the Garmin Express application to upload your activity data to your Garmin Connect account and to send data, such as workouts or training plans, from the Garmin Connect website to your device. You can also add music to your device (Downloading Personal Audio Content, page 66). You can also install device software updates and manage your Connect IQ apps.

Connect the device to your computer using the USB cable.
Go to www.garmin.com/express.
Download and install the Garmin Express application.
Open the Garmin Express application, and select Add Device.
Follow the on-screen instructions.

Data Management

NOTE: The device is not compatible with Windows 95, 98, Me, Windows NT®, and Mac® OS 10.3 and earlier.

Deleting Files

NOTICE

If you do not know the purpose of a file, do not delete it. Your device memory contains important system files that should not be deleted.

Open the Garmin drive or volume.
If necessary, open a folder or volume. 3 Select a file.
Press the Delete key on your keyboard.

NOTE: Mac operating systems provide limited support for MTP file transfer mode. You must open the Garmin drive on a Windows operating system. You should use the Garmin Express application to remove music files from your device.

Setup Guide

To set up your Garmin Forerunner 945,

Start by charging the device. Download and install the Garmin
Connect app on your smartphone.
Turn on the watch and follow the on-screen instructions to select your language and configure basic settings.
Pair the watch with your smartphone via Bluetooth through the Garmin Connect app.
You may need to enter a pairing code displayed on the watch.
Once paired, you can sync your data, download additional apps, and configure more advanced settings such as music storage and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Troubleshooting

Product Updates
Your device automatically checks for updates when connected to Bluetooth or Wi‑Fi. You can manually check for updates from the system settings (System Settings, page 94). On your computer, install Garmin Express (www.garmin.com/express). On your phone, install the Garmin Connect app.

This provides easy access to these services for Garmin devices:

Software updates
Map updates
Course updates
Data uploads to Garmin Connect
Product registration

Setting Up Garmin Express

Connect the device to your computer using a USB cable.
Go to www.garmin.com/express.
Follow the on-screen instructions.

Activity Tracking

For more information about activity tracking accuracy, go to garmin.com/ataccuracy.

My daily step count does not appear
The daily step count is reset every night at midnight. If dashes appear instead of your step count, allow the device to acquire satellite signals and set the time automatically.

My step count does not seem accurate
If your step count does not seem accurate, you can try these tips.

Wear the device on your non-dominant wrist.
Carry the device in your pocket when pushing a stroller or lawn mower.
Carry the device in your pocket when actively using your hands or arms only.

NOTE: The device may interpret some repetitive motions, such as washing dishes, folding laundry, or clapping your hands, as steps.

The step counts on my device and my Garmin Connect account don't match
The step count on your Garmin Connect account updates when you sync your device.

Select an option:
- Sync your step count with the Garmin Express application (Using Garmin Connect on Your Computer, page 72).
- Sync your step count with the Garmin Connect app (Manually Syncing Data with Garmin Connect, page 59).
Wait while the device syncs your data.
Syncing can take several minutes.

NOTE: Refreshing the Garmin Connect app or the Garmin Express application does not sync your data or update your step count.

The floors climbed amount does not seem accurate
Your device uses an internal barometer to measure elevation changes as you climb floors. A floor climbed is equal to 3 m (10 ft.).

Locate the small barometer holes on the back of the device, near the charging contacts, and clean the area around the charging contacts.
The barometer performance may be affected if the barometer holes are obstructed. You can rinse the device with water to clean the area.
After cleaning, allow the device to dry completely.
Avoid holding handrails or skipping steps while climbing stairs.
In windy environments, cover the device with your sleeve or jacket as strong gusts can cause erratic readings.

My intensity minutes are flashing
When you exercise at an intensity level that qualifies toward your intensity minutes goal, the intensity minutes flash.

Acquiring Satellite Signals

The device may need a clear view of the sky to acquire satellite signals. The time and date are set automatically based on the GPS position.

TIP: For more information about GPS, go to www.garmin.com/aboutGPS.

Go outdoors to an open area.
The front of the device should be oriented toward the sky.
Wait while the device locates satellites.
It may take 30–60 seconds to locate satellite signals.

Improving GPS Satellite Reception

Frequently sync the device to your Garmin Connect account:
- Connect your device to a computer using the USB cable and the Garmin Express application.
- Sync your device to the Garmin Connect app using your Bluetooth enabled smartphone.
- Connect your device to your Garmin Connect account using a Wi‑Fi wireless network.
  While connected to your Garmin Connect account, the device downloads several days of satellite data, allowing it to quickly locate satellite signals.
Take your device outside to an open area away from tall buildings and trees.
Remain stationary for a few minutes.

Restarting the Watch

If the watch stops responding, you may need to restart it.

NOTE: Restarting the watch may erase your data or settings.

Hold for 15 seconds.
The watch turns off.
Hold for one second to turn on the watch.

Resetting All Default Settings

Before you reset all default settings, you should sync the device with the Garmin Connect app to upload your activity data.

NOTE: This deletes all user-entered information and activity history. If you have set up a Garmin Pay wallet, restoring default settings also deletes the wallet from your device.
You can reset all of the device settings to the factory default values.

From the watch face, hold .
Select Settings > System > Reset.
Select an option:
- To reset all of the device settings to the factory default values and save all activity information and stored music, select Reset Default Settings.
- To delete all activities from your history, select Delete All Activities.
- To reset all distance and time totals, select Reset Totals.
- To reset the all of the device settings to the factory default values and delete all activity information and stored music, select Delete Data and Reset Settings.

Updating the Software Using the Garmin Connect App

Before you can update your device software using the Garmin Connect app, you must have a Garmin Connect account, and you must pair the device with a compatible smartphone (Pairing Your Smartphone with Your Device, page 57).

Sync your device with the Garmin Connect app (Manually Syncing Data with Garmin Connect, page 59). When new software is available, the Garmin Connect app automatically sends the update to your device.

Updating the Software Using Garmin Express

Before you can update your device software, you must have a Garmin Connect account, and you must download the Garmin Express application.

Connect the device to your computer using the USB cable.
When new software is available, Garmin Express sends it to your device.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Do not disconnect your device from the computer during the update process.

NOTE: If you have already set up your device with Wi‑Fi connectivity, Garmin Connect can automatically download available software updates to your device when it connects using Wi‑Fi.

My Device is in the Wrong Language

Hold .
Scroll down to the last item in the list, and select it.
Select the first item in the list.
Use UP and DOWN to select your language.

Is my phone compatible with my watch?
The Forerunner watch is compatible with phones using Bluetooth technology.

My phone will not connect to the device
If your phone will not connect to the device, you can try these tips.

Turn off your smartphone and your device, and turn them back on again.
Enable Bluetooth technology on your smartphone.
Update the Garmin Connect app to the latest version.
Remove your device from the Garmin Connect app and the Bluetooth settings on your smartphone to retry the pairing process.
If you bought a new smartphone, remove your device from the Garmin Connect app on the smartphone you intend to stop using.
Bring your smartphone within 10 m (33 ft.) of the device.
On your smartphone, open the Garmin Connect app, select or , and select Garmin Devices > Add Device to enter pairing mode.
On your device, hold LIGHT, and select to turn on Bluetooth technology and enter pairing mode.

Maximizing Battery Life

You can do several things to extend the life of the battery.

Turn off activity tracking (Turning Off Activity Tracking, page 31).
Reduce the backlight timeout (Changing the Backlight Settings, page 95).
Reduce the backlight brightness.
Turn off Bluetooth wireless technology when you are not using connected features (Bluetooth Connected Features, page 59).
Stop broadcasting heart rate data to paired Garmin devices (Broadcasting Heart Rate Data to Garmin Devices, page 33).
Turn off wrist-based heart rate monitoring (Turning Off the Wrist-based Heart Rate Monitor, page 34). NOTE: Wrist-based heart rate monitoring is used to calculate vigorous intensity minutes and calories burned.
Limit the smartphone notifications the device displays (Managing Notifications, page 58).
Turn off the pulse oximeter feature (Turning Off the Wrist-based Heart Rate Monitor, page 34).
When pausing your activity for a longer period of time, use the Resume Later option (Stopping an Activity, page 5).
Select the Smart recording interval (System Settings, page 94).
Use UltraTrac GPS mode for your activity (UltraTrac, page 90).
Use a watch face that is not updated every second.

For example, use a watch face without a second hand (Customizing the Watch Face, page 91).

The temperature reading is not accurate
Your body temperature affects the temperature reading for the internal temperature sensor. To get the most accurate temperature reading, you should remove the watch from your wrist and wait 20 to 30 minutes. You can also use an optional tempe external temperature sensor to view accurate ambient temperature readings while wearing the watch.

How can I manually pair ANT+ sensors?
You can use the device settings to manually pair ANT+ sensors. The first time you connect a sensor to your device using ANT+ wireless technology, you must pair the device and sensor. After they are paired, the device connects to the sensor automatically when you start an activity and the sensor is active and within range.

Stay 10 m (33 ft.) away from other ANT+ sensors while pairing.
If you are pairing a heart rate monitor, put on the heart rate monitor.
The heart rate monitor does not send or receive data until you put it on.
Hold .
Select Settings > Sensors & Accessories > Add New.
Select an option:
- Select Search All.
- Select your sensor type.

After the sensor is paired with your device, a message appears. Sensor data appears in the data page loop or a custom data field.

Can I use my Bluetooth sensor with my watch?
The watch is compatible with some Bluetooth sensors. The first time you connect a sensor to your Garmin watch, you must pair the watch and sensor. After they are paired, the watch connects to the sensor automatically when you start an activity and the sensor is active and within range.

Hold .
Select Sensors & Accessories > Add New.
Select an option:
- Select Search All.
- Select your sensor type.

You can customize the optional data fields (Customizing the Data Screens, page 85).

My music cuts out or my headphones do not stay connected
When using a Forerunner device connected to headphones using Bluetooth technology, the signal is strongest when there is a direct line of sight between the device and the antenna on the headphones.

If the signal passes through your body, you may experience signal loss or your headphones may become disconnected.
It is recommended to wear your headphones with the antenna on the same side of your body as your Forerunner device.
Since headphones vary by model, you can try moving the watch to your other wrist.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Advanced GPS capabilities with multi-satellite system support
Comprehensive health and fitness tracking features
Long battery life with power-saving modes
Music storage and Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless updates
Durable design with water resistance up to 50 meters

Cons:

High price point compared to other GPS trackers
Complex interface that may require time to get accustomed to
No built-in cellular connectivity for emergency calls or texts
Large size may not be suitable for smaller wrists

Customer Reviews

Customers praise the Forerunner 945 for its robust feature set and reliable performance. Many athletes appreciate the detailed analytics and customizable data screens. However, some users find the interface overwhelming and the price steep.

A common complaint is the lack of built-in cellular connectivity, which limits its functionality compared to smartwatches with cellular capabilities.

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