Burned Calories Calculated on My Garmin Device Are Wrong

Garmin® devices use a proprietary algorithm along with some information that you provide to determine your daily calorie burn as well as those burned during a recorded activity. Below is information to consider if you feel the reported calories burned on your watch are inaccurate.

Confirm Your User Profile Information is Correct

Calorie calculation uses your user profile data (age, weight, height, etc.) from your Garmin Connect™ account. You may use the FAQ below for reference on how to update this information.

Changing Device and User Settings in Garmin Connect

Check Your Heart Rate Graph for Accuracy

Your heart rate is another key component of the calorie calculation that takes place on your Garmin device. Look in your Garmin Connect account at the heart rate graph to ensure that it displays an accurate heart rate for the time period in question. If you feel that the heart rate is not accurate, reference the FAQ below for common troubleshooting.

The Heart Rate Sensor on My Garmin Watch Is Not Accurate

Check Your Power Graph for Accuracy

NOTE: Only applicable for certain watches and Edge® cycling computers. 

When a power meter is paired to a compatible device, it will also heavily rely on power data to calculate calories. Review your activities' power data and power zones on your Garmin Connect account. Refer to your owner's manual for compatibility and setting power zones. 

Disable GPS When Using Indoor Activity Profiles

When using an indoor activity profile such as cardio, it is recommended that you leave GPS off by default. Long activities with little to no distance can affect overall calorie readings. For steps on how to edit GPS settings, see your owner's manual.