The Garmin Forerunner 170 has arrived on the market as a sports watch that, despite being in an intermediate step within the brand's catalog, offers training tools that we previously only saw in high-end models. Its competitive pricing and focus on advanced metrics make it a very attractive option for brokers who want to get the most out of every outing. However, as with many tech devices, the true potential of the Forerunner 170 is discovered when you customize its features and apply little tricks that enhance the daily experience. In this article, we're sharing five essential tricks to help you get the most out of your new watch, while also reflecting on how well-configured technology can transform our performance. At Q2BSTUDIO, as a company specialising in bespoke software, we know that personalisation is key to achieving optimal results, both in sport and in the business world.
1. Reprogram buttons for instant access to the features you use most
One of the first things you should do when you release your Forerunner 170 is to remap the button shortcuts. By default, the settings may not be the most efficient for your routine. For example, if you run in the rain frequently, you'll find it very useful to assign the 'Hold Home + Up' combination to lock the touchscreen instantly. This way, you prevent drops or sweat from activating unwanted functions. You can also put the 'Do Not Disturb' mode on the down button, skipping several steps from the menu when you receive an annoying notification mid-run. In the business context, this philosophy of customization is similar to developing bespoke applications that are tailored to each organization's specific workflows. At Q2BSTUDIO we design solutions that eliminate unnecessary steps and streamline processes, exactly as it happens when you modify the shortcuts on your watch.
2. Use 'Record Only' mode as a navigation footprint on unknown routes
The Forerunner 170 doesn't include colour topographic maps, but it does feature a route recording function that displays a 'crumb trail' of all the places you've passed. Activating the 'Record Only' mode allows you to record your trajectory without consuming the battery required by turn-by-turn navigation. If you get lost, you can follow the reverse trail to return to the starting point. In addition, you can set up 'half-turn' alerts before you start: the watch alerts you when you have completed half the time or the planned distance, ensuring that you return right to the starting point. This management of georeferenced data is reminiscent of the AWS and Azure cloud services that we implement in Q2BSTUDIO to store and process information securely and efficiently. The cloud allows businesses to keep a digital trail of their operations, just like your watch saves your route so you never get lost.
3. Let the 'Quick Workouts' adapt the session to your real state
One of the most interesting new features of the Forerunner 170 is the automatic generation of workouts based on your daily recovery level. Instead of manually entering a pace and distance, you select a time range and intensity (easy, moderate, hard, or very hard). The watch then builds a session that fits your current 'Willingness to Train' score. Thus, a '45 minutes, moderate' can translate into a smooth run one day and an interval circuit the next day, depending on how your rest was. This adaptive approach is a clear example of how artificial intelligence can be applied to sports performance. In the corporate sphere, at Q2BSTUDIO we develop AI agents that analyze data in real time and make contextual decisions to optimize business processes. The same dynamic adaptation logic used by the Forerunner 170 can be transferred to production, logistics, or customer service systems using custom-designed enterprise AI.
4. Give the cycling trainer a new use for your cross-training sessions
The Forerunner 170 includes a cycling trainer that many runners ignore because they assume it's only good for cycling. However, this tool can be reused for any cross-training activity, such as pool swimming, rowing, or elliptical. By selecting the cycling option during your session, you get structured and adaptive plans based on your performance history. In addition, the estimated running power function from the wrist (no need for a chest strap) gives you a real-time effort indicator that is very useful on routes with slopes, where just looking at the pace can be misleading. The ability of a single device to serve multiple purposes is a concept we apply in Q2BSTUDIO by integrating business intelligence services such as Power BI, which allows companies to visualize data from different sources in a single dashboard. Just as your watch unifies running and cycling metrics, a BI solution centralizes critical indicators for decision-making.
5. Take care of the battery like your muscles: partial charge and disable continuous GPS
A common mistake among GPS watch users is to charge the device to 100% every night. However, full charge cycles accelerate battery degradation. During normal training weeks, we recommend limiting the load to approximately 80%, reserving 100% only for competition days or long runs. In addition, on known routes and regular workouts, deactivate the GPS in 'Always on' mode. Your watch will still record activity accurately enough, but the battery will last for several more days. This optimization strategy is reminiscent of cybersecurity practices where protection thresholds are established without consuming excessive resources. At Q2BSTUDIO, we implement security systems that adapt to the level of risk, similar to how you decide when to use continuous GPS or economy mode. Small adjustments generate big energy savings and extend the life of any technology.
Bonus: touch gestures and early synchronization
An additional trick that works on the Forerunner 170 (and other Garmin touchscreen watches) is to place your palm on the watch face to turn off the screen instantly. It's very useful when you're in a meeting or on the desktop and just wanted to check a notification. Also, if you have the Music version, download your playlists the night before, not during warm-up, because syncing consumes battery and requires a stable connection. In the business environment, anticipation and efficiency in data transfer are just as relevant. At Q2BSTUDIO we help companies design custom applications that optimize synchronization and cloud storage, minimizing resource consumption and maximizing availability.
In short, the Garmin Forerunner 170 is much more than just a running watch. With these five tricks, you can turn it into a high-performance tool that adapts to your needs, while learning principles of customization, adaptability, and efficiency that also apply in the world of business technology. At Q2BSTUDIO, as experts in custom software development and AI implementation for enterprises, we know that the key is to configure each system to work with us, not against us. Whether on the wrist or in the office, well-fitted technology makes all the difference.
