# Five Hacks Every Garmin Forerunner 165 User Should Know
Parents who track their fitness with a Garmin Forerunner 165 smartwatch can squeeze more value from the device before considering an upgrade to the newer 170 model. The watch offers features that many users don't fully explore, and small tweaks unlock functionality parents rely on for managing exercise routines alongside family responsibilities.
The Forerunner 165 includes built-in tracking for running, walking, and cycling, plus sleep monitoring that helps parents understand how rest impacts their daily energy. The device syncs with Garmin Connect, the company's free mobile app, which displays detailed workout data and recovery metrics. Parents can set custom alerts for heart rate zones, helping them stay accountable to fitness goals even with limited training windows.
One practical hack involves customizing watch faces to display the information you use most. Instead of defaulting to metrics you don't need, parents can create a simplified view showing only steps, heart rate, and next calendar event. This saves battery life and reduces distraction when checking the time.
Battery optimization matters for parents juggling multiple responsibilities. Disabling GPS when walking indoors or using the watch purely for step counting stretches the Forerunner 165's battery from five to seven days. Enabling battery-saver mode on weekends when training isn't scheduled preserves power for workout days.
The Forerunner 165 also connects to popular fitness apps including Strava and TrainingPeaks, expanding how you log and share workouts. Parents training for races or building running consistency can leverage these integrations without purchasing additional devices.
Before spending money on the Forerunner 170, mastering the 165's core features and customization options delivers the tracking accuracy and coaching insights parents need. Small adjustments to settings and workflows reveal why Garmin's