How to Set the Pool Size on My Garmin Watch

The first time you enter pool swim mode the watch will prompt you to enter a pool size. This information is required to properly gauge the distance you swam and your swimming pace.  When you get the pool size prompt, you will see a list of common pool sizes:

• 25 m

• 50 m

• 25 yd

• 33 1/3 m

• 33 1/3 yd

At the end of the list, there is also the option to select “Custom”. Use this option to enter a pool size not found in the list, as long as it falls in the allowable range: 14–150 meters or 15-150 yards. 

In the image examples below, the left image is displaying 150 while the right image is displaying 15. Use the up and down buttons to adjust the numbers within the bracket, then press the upper right button to move to the next digit field. To save the selection move to the green check mark and select it with the upper right button.

I Am at a New Pool, How Do I Change the Pool Size?

NOTE: Pool size setting can be accessed through the menu by selecting Pool Swim Settings. If you change pools, it is important to check this setting and adjust it as required. 

A different pool size can be selected in the Pool Swim activity settings at anytime.

1. Open the Pool Swim Activity.

2. Press and hold Menu.

3. Select Pool Swim Settings.

4. Select Pool Size.

5. Select the desired pool length.

These steps should work for most Garmin® watches. For instructions on charging the Pool Size for your specific watch, see your owner's manual.

My Watch Will Not Allow a Custom Pool Size Shorter Than 17 Meters

Watches that do not support pool sizes smaller that 17 meters include the following:

• D2™ Bravo

• epix™

• fēnix® 3 | fēnix® 3 HR | fēnix® 3 Sapphire

• Forerunner® 910XT | Forerunner® 920XT

• Garmin Swim™

• vívoactive®

• vívoactive® HR

• vívoactive® 3 |  vívoactive® 3 Music | vívoactive® 3 Music (Verizon)

 If your watch is not listed but does not allow you to set a shorter size, update the software on your watch. 

Why is the Minimum Length of the Pool Size Setting Limited?

The lower end of the range exists because the algorithms used to compute swim metrics like lengths, distance, and pace are not as accurate when a swimmer takes very few strokes per length. In smaller pools, a strong swimmer may only take a few strokes before they reach the wall and have to turn.