The Garmin Instinct 2 measures distance primarily through its advanced satellite navigation capabilities and internal sensors, providing both real-time tracking during activities and a comprehensive record of total distance traveled.
How the Garmin Instinct 2 Measures Distance
Your Garmin Instinct 2 utilizes multiple technologies to accurately track distance, adapting to different activity types and environments:
- GPS (Global Positioning System): For outdoor activities such as running, hiking, cycling, and swimming (open water), the Instinct 2 uses its built-in GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite receivers. This provides highly accurate distance tracking by recording your movement over the ground.
- Accelerometer: For indoor activities where GPS signals are unavailable, like treadmill running or indoor walking, the watch uses its internal accelerometer. This sensor estimates distance based on your arm swing and stride length. For improved accuracy, you can calibrate the watch after a few indoor runs.
During an activity, the current distance is typically displayed prominently on one of the watch's data screens, allowing you to monitor your progress in real-time. After completing an activity, the total distance, along with other metrics, is saved as part of your activity summary and can be reviewed on the watch or in the Garmin Connect app.
Viewing Total Accumulated Distance (Odometer)
Beyond individual activity tracking, your Garmin Instinct 2 also features an odometer that automatically records the total distance you have traveled across all activities, alongside elevation gained and total time spent in those activities. This provides a running sum of your overall movement.
To view your odometer totals:
- From the watch face, press and hold the MENU button.
- Navigate through the options and select History.
- Choose Totals.
- Select Odometer.
- Press the UP or DOWN buttons to scroll through and view your total accumulated distance, elevation gained, and time.
This odometer function allows you to keep track of your long-term progress and overall activity levels directly on your device.
