Garmin has unveiled two new GPS running smartwatches, the Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170, designed to support runners at every stage of their journey.
From first-time runners building consistency to experienced athletes fine-tuning performance, the new Forerunner range focuses on making training more accessible, more intelligent and easier to track day to day.
Both models feature bright 1.2-inch AMOLED displays, responsive touchscreens and a traditional five-button layout for simple control during runs.
Built To Support Every Step of Your Running Journey
According to Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing Susan Lyman, the new watches are designed to bring advanced performance tools into an easy-to-use format.
“Purposefully designed with everything a runner needs to start their running journey, Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170 include premium running and training features pulled in from our more advanced Forerunners, plus popular health and wellness metrics,” she said.
Forerunner 70 Keeps Training Simple but Powerful
The Forerunner 70 focuses on essential tools that help runners build consistency and improve over time.
Key features include:
- Built-in GPS tracking for pace, distance and time
- Wrist-based heart rate monitoring
- Quick workouts with tailored suggestions based on fitness level
- Garmin Coach adaptive training plans that adjust daily
- Run walk training plans for beginners and lower volume training
- Daily suggested workouts that adapt after each session
- Advanced performance metrics including training readiness, training status, running power and running dynamics
- Over 80 sports modes including strength training, cycling and swimming
- 24/7 health tracking including sleep, HRV status, stress, breathing variations and Pulse Ox
- Smart notifications, safety tracking and LiveTrack
The Forerunner 70 offers up to 13 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and comes in citron, cool lavender, black and whitestone.
READ MORE: Garmin’s Forerunner 570 and 970 Are Its Most Advanced Running Watches Yet
Forerunner 170 Adds Everyday Convenience and Music Freedom
The Forerunner 170 builds on the Forerunner 70 with added lifestyle features designed for runners on the move.
It includes:
- Garmin Pay contactless payments for quick stops mid-run
- Music storage and playback from supported streaming services
- Phone-free listening with Bluetooth headphones
The Forerunner 170 and Forerunner 170 Music deliver up to 10 days of battery life and are available in black with amp yellow accents, whitestone with cloud blue, teal green and red pink colourways.
Pricing and Availability
Win a Garmin Forerunner 170 Music with Men’s Health South Africa
Men’s Health South Africa is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a Garmin Forerunner 170 Music worth R7 999.
To enter, tell us below what you are currently training for and how the Garmin Forerunner 170 Music would help you reach your goal. Whether it’s your first 5K, improving your pace, building consistency or training for a race, we want to hear your story. The most creative and authentic entry wins.
Competition closes on 20 June 2026. Ts & Cs apply! The winner will be contacted via email or phone.
