Garmin has launched yet another smartwatch, called the Forerunner 55, which is focused on runners, and especially those just starting out in the activity. The watch lets users track their running or walking statistics over time.

Customers are able to track their time, distance, speed, running pace and heart data using the device. Like many of Garmin's other watches, the Forerunner 55 has a built-in GPS and provides heart rate data, suggested workouts and a Garmin Coach, which gives users guidance about achieving their running goals.

Users can also tap into running-specific features. These include the PacePro, a feature that helps runners tailor their route; a time finish estimator; and a cadence alert, which lets folks know when they are off their target cadence range. Users can also set up activity profiles for running, swimming, Pilates and other activities.

The tool is priced at $199 and offers up to two weeks of battery life.

WHY IT MATTERS

Physical inactivity is prevalent in the U.S. In fact, according to the CDC nationwide, more than 15% of U.S. adults are physically inactive. The rates range based on location, with areas in the southeast of America seeing the highest rates of physical inactivity.

According to the CDC, physical activity can help prevent the number of cases of breast cancer, colorectal cancer, diabetes and heart disease.

Today, innovators are creating technology as a way for people to keep track of their physical activity and move toward their goals.

“We know there are runners of all skill levels who prefer a simplified running watch,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin's vice president of worldwide sales. “With that in mind, the Forerunner 55 presents informative and digestible data in a way that can help people reach their running goals, while also encouraging them to live a healthy lifestyle.”

THE LARGER TREND

Every year, Garmin releases a slew of new smartwatches. In April, it released the Venu 2 Series GPS smartwatch. The tool gives users insights into their sleep, including light, deep and REM sleep. Users can also view information about their pulse oxygen and respiration rate when sleeping.

Earlier in 2021, the company unveiled its Enduro, a watch designed for athletic training with GPS, and a smaller wearable called Lily, which Garmin pitched as a product “designed by women, for women.”

Garmin has a lot of competition in the smartwatch space. For example, Apple Watch now has an ECG monitor, as well as health-tracking capabilities. Its other competitors include Samsung, Withings and Fitbit.