Garmin^® running power is calculated using measured running dynamics information, user mass, environmental data, and other sensor data. The power measurement estimates the amount of power a runner applies to the road surface, and it is displayed in watts. Using running power as a gauge of effort may suit some runners better than using either pace or heart rate. Running power can be more responsive than heart rate for indicating the level of effort, and it can account for the uphills, downhills, and wind, which a pace measurement does not do.

Running power can be measured using the watch sensors. You can customize the running power data fields to view your power output and make adjustments to your training (Data Fields). You can set up power alerts to be notified when you reach a specified power zone (Activity Alerts).

Running power zones are similar to cycling power zones. The values for the zones are default values based on gender, weight, and average ability, and may not match your personal abilities. You can view your zones on the Garmin Connect™ account.