Garmin Forerunner 570: The Multisport Powerhouse in the Middle

Garmin has officially raised the bar—again. Launched alongside the flagship Forerunner 970 on May 21, the Garmin Forerunner 570 is the newest mid-range training beast in the Forerunner family. But this time, “mid-range” is starting to look elite. With a $100 price bump over the Forerunner 265, new training features, added wellness tracking, and a literal golf watch baked in, the 570 is far more than just an update—it’s a redefinition.

Stay tuned, as we have our running expert, Kieran Alger, reviewing the 570 as this article is written!

Garmin Forerunner 570: What’s New?

Hardware & Materials

• Larger Display: 1.4” AMOLED (vs. 1.3” on the FR 265)
• More Premium Build: Features an aluminum bezel that feels closer to high-end models like the fenix 8 and FR 970.
• Built-in Speaker and Mic: Allows Bluetooth calling, voice commands, and voice assistant integration—first time on a mid-tier Forerunner.
  

Software Upgrades

• Garmin Triathlon Coach: Free, adaptive training plans tailored to your performance, recovery, and metrics.
• Multisport Workouts: Seamlessly switch between disciplines—perfect for triathletes.
• Evening Report: Pre-bed summary of your sleep goals, tomorrow’s workout, weather, and schedule.
• Golf Mode: The 570 now includes advanced golf watch features—hazards, distances, and even shot tracking.

Garmin Forerunner 265 vs 570 Quick Comparison Chart

Bottom line: The 570 is more than a modest step up—it's a leap for serious multisport athletes.

Models, Sizes, and Overall Design

• Two sizes: Like the FR 265, which has two case options (46mm and 42mm), the FR 570 also comes in two sizes—47mm and 42mm.
• Design: It leans sporty but more refined than previous mid-tier options. The aluminum bezel adds durability without sacrificing comfort.
• Weight: Slightly heavier than the FR 265, but still light enough for all-day wear.
  

Let’s Talk Forerunner 570 Maps & Navigation

While the FR 570 does not include full-color topo maps like the Forerunner 970, it still offers strong navigation tools:

• Breadcrumb navigation
• Back-to-start routing
• Real-time course tracking via Garmin Connect

Does It Have Garmin’s Superior GPS Positioning?

Heck yeah, it does!

The FR 570 supports multi-band GNSS (multi-frequency GPS), giving you accurate data in dense urban areas or under tree cover. It’s the same tech used in Garmin’s top-tier watches.

Garmin Forerunner 570 for Training

• Adaptive Training Plans: Not just suggestions—these are dynamically updated plans based on your data.
• Training Readiness: Factoring in sleep, HRV, recovery time, and stress.
• Race Widget: Countdown plus predicted times based on training.
• Heat and Altitude Acclimation: Your VO₂ max and training status now take environmental stress into account.
  

The Forerunner 570 Is Rich in Health & Wellness

Garmin continues to integrate meaningful wellness metrics:

• Skin Temperature: Tracks overnight temp shifts—great for detecting illness or sleep disruptions.
• Pulse Ox and Breathing Variability: Understand how you're breathing and recovering during sleep.
• HRV Status: A clearer picture of overall recovery and training readiness.
  

Should You Buy This Garmin Watch?

Buy the Forerunner 570 if …

• You’re a runner stepping into triathlon training
• You want training insights and voice calling in one device
• You value health metrics and want golf features baked in
• You need serious features in a sub-premium price range

Buy the Forerunner 970 if …

• You want topo maps, ECG, and running economy metrics
• You’re already using (or plan to use) the HRM Pro Plus or HRM 600
• You need military-grade ruggedness with sapphire glass
• You’re training for ultras or backcountry events

Buy the Enduro 3 or fenix 8 if…

• You’re in the mountains, backcountry, or multiday expeditions
• You need solar charging, topo maps, flashlight, and sapphire-grade durability
• You want a “do everything” outdoor watch (not just running)

Final Thoughts

Garmin’s Forerunner 570 is no longer just a “mid-tier runner’s watch.” It’s a true multisport training tool that incorporates features from both health wearables and triathlon tools—without jumping to the ultra-premium price tier.

If you're serious about training, dabble in multiple sports, or just want the most well-rounded Garmin under $600, the Forerunner 570 is not just worth a look—it’s likely the sweet spot.