Vertical Ratio is a measurement of Vertical Oscillation (see Related below), divided by your Stride Length, then expressed as a percent. Since stride length is the horizontal movement of running, it’s the benefit of the action, whereas vertical oscillation is one of the energy costs of running. A low vertical ratio number indicates a small cost for a large benefit. The lower the Vertical Ratio, the more efficient your running.

Vertical Ratio is a Running Dynamics metric that is available when using an HRM-Pro, HRM-Run, HRM-Tri, or Running Dynamics Pod with a compatible Garmin watch.

Compatible watch list

D2 Bravo
D2 Charlie
Descent MK1
epix
fenix 2
fenix 3 Series
fenix 5 and 5 Plus Series
fenix CHRONOS
Forerunner 245/245 Music
Forerunner 620
Forerunner 630
Forerunner 645/645 Music
Forerunner 735XT
Forerunner 745
Forerunner 920XT
Forerunner 935
Forerunner 945
MARQ Series
quatix 3
quatix 5
tactix Bravo
tactix Charlie

Additional Running Dynamics Metrics that provide feedback about your running form include:

Cadence
Ground Contact Time
Ground Contact Time Balance*
Stride Length*
Vertical Oscillation
Vertical Ratio*

*NOTE: These features are not compatible on epix, fenix 2, or Forerunner 620.

To learn more about Vertical Ratio, as well as other Advanced Running Dynamics Garmin has to offer, view the following video: