Despite smartwatches offering advanced features like custom workout loading and VO2 max tracking, Garmin's strength training mode for sets and reps is widely described as a 'hot mess' due to its consistent failure to record correct numbers. This unreliable performance forces serious lifters to manually track progress, negating a core advertised benefit for performance analysis.
Smartwatches are marketed with advanced strength training features, but their critical rep counting function remains consistently unreliable. This creates a disconnect for athletes seeking precise data for progressive overload, suggesting a gap between advertised capability and real-world performance. We investigated how specific Garmin models perform.
1. Garmin Venu 3
Best for: Athletes seeking custom workout integration and basic rep tracking.
The Garmin Venu 3 tracks sets and reps during weightlifting and supports custom workouts from the Garmin Connect app, including specific sets, reps, and exercises, according to Forbes.
Strengths: Comprehensive custom workout capabilities; explicit set and rep tracking.
Limitations: Despite these features, its advanced tracking is hampered by Garmin's unreliable rep counter, which TechRadar calls a 'hot mess.' This inconsistency undermines the Venu 3's utility for precise strength training data.
Price: Not provided in sources.
2. Garmin Vivoactive 6
Best for: Individuals prioritizing detailed physiological metrics during strength and cardio.
The Vivoactive 6 provides detailed metrics on VO2 max, aerobic and anaerobic output, and exercise load for both running and strength training, as reported by Men's Health. This offers a deeper understanding of workout intensity.
