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Tips for GPS Accuracy On Track Runs
Comparing distance and GPS track when recording a running activity on a track can create challenges when striving for accurate results. This FAQ is designed to help you achieve the best possible outcome when recording this type of activity.
Most Garmin watches do not feature a Track Run activity profile. Due to various factors, your GPS track may not be exact or reflect the lane number in which you performed your run. It is not uncommon for the GPS track for activities recorded on watches that do not support the Track Run activity profile to look like the photo below.
This is considered expected behavior. For watches that support this setting, we recommend choosing the Every Second data recording option in your watch's system settings. To check if your watch supports every second data recording and to learn how to change that setting, check your owner's manual.
Tips for Watches That Do Not Support the Track Run Profile
Prior to opening the Run activity profile, sync your watch using Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect mobile app. A successful sync will send the most up to date satellite position data to your watch, which will cut down on the time it takes for the watch to establish a GPS connection. Waiting an additional 60-90 seconds after a GPS connection has been established can result in a stronger GPS connection, which may result in a more accurate GPS track.
Ensure that you wait for your watch to indicate that it has connected to GPS before you start the timer and begin running. This indication could look different depending on the model of watch you are using. Some watches will display a notification stating "GPS is Ready", while most recent models will have an arc at the top of the screen that will appear red, then turn green once a GPS connection has been established.
Run in the same lane, when possible. You may see cross-lane errors like in the image above, but you can limit these by staying in the same lane.
Garmin Watches That Feature a Track Run Profile
Some Garmin watches will have a Track Run activity profile which is specifically designed to record a GPS activity performed on a track. When used properly, the GPS track recorded for the activity should look similar to the photo below.
What Watch Models Have the Track Run Activity Profile?
For a complete list select the following:
Tips for Watches That Support the Track Run Profile
Be sure to calibrate the Track Run activity profile the first time you run on a specific track.
If you are running in a lane other than lane number 1, make sure to set the lane number before beginning your run.
Run in the same lane, when possible. The Track Run activity profile is able to account for occasional lane changes, but frequent lane changes can impact overall profile accuracy.
For more tips on how to use the Track Run activity profile, see the related content below.