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The Verdict
Garmin's flagship running watch for 2025 brings ECG capability to the Forerunner line for the first time. The new Health Status feature combines HRV, sleep, and training data into a comprehensive wellness view. Best for serious athletes who want medical-grade heart monitoring.
Pros
- First Forerunner with ECG capability
- Elevate Gen 5 sensor for improved accuracy
- Premium titanium and sapphire build
- Comprehensive Health Status dashboard
Cons
- Expensive at $750
- Large 47mm case may not suit smaller wrists
- Premium features may be overkill for casual users
- Garmin ecosystem lock-in
ECG Meets HRV
The Forerunner 970 is Garmin's first Forerunner with ECG capability, joining the Venu 3 series. This allows on-demand heart rhythm checks alongside continuous PPG-based HRV monitoring. The Elevate Gen 5 sensor offers improved accuracy over previous generations.
Health Status Dashboard
The new Health Status feature consolidates HRV Status, Training Readiness, sleep data, and other wellness metrics into a single view. This makes it easier to understand your overall recovery and readiness at a glance rather than checking multiple screens.
Premium Build
Titanium case with sapphire crystal and a 1.4-inch AMOLED display. Up to 15 days of battery in smartwatch mode, or 48 hours in full GPS training mode. Built for serious athletes who demand the best.
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