What Is the Connect+ Subscription and How Does It Affect Coaching Access?
Garmin has introduced a subscription tier called Connect+ that locks access to its Garmin Coach digital training plans behind a paywall. While the Cirqa smart band offers core tracking features without a fee, personalized coaching—covering strength, running, and cycling goals—requires this additional subscription. This marks a significant shift from previous Garmin models, where coaching features were included with higher-end devices. Consequently, budget-friendly Garmin trackers could provide coaching only if users subscribe to Connect+.
How Does Garmin’s Acquisition of TrainingPeaks Influence Its Coaching Ecosystem?
With Garmin acquiring TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic—a widely used, cross-platform coaching software—many fear a move toward exclusivity or a mandatory Garmin subscription. TrainingPeaks currently supports multiple devices beyond Garmin, allowing users to follow training plans and communicate with coaches seamlessly. Garmin has stated it will keep TrainingPeaks cross-platform, but integration into Garmin Connect+ is probable, potentially introducing new subscription requirements for accessing advanced coaching plans and third-party coach programs.
What Are the Implications for Users and Alternative Fitness Platforms?
The new Connect+ tier may cause friction among Garmin users who previously enjoyed free coaching features, as well as users of TrainingPeaks on non-Garmin devices, such as Apple Watch, Polar, or Suunto. The paywall approach aligns Garmin with competitors like Fitbit and Apple, emphasizing ongoing revenue through subscriptions. However, Connect+ remains more affordable than some models like Whoop's mandatory yearly fee. Users should weigh costs against coaching benefits and consider whether Garmin's evolving ecosystem suits their multi-platform needs or if alternative coaching solutions remain preferable.
Key Takeaways for Fitness Tracker Buyers and Current Garmin Users
If coaching features are a priority in your fitness journey, note that Garmin now places these behind the Connect+ subscription, including with new devices like Cirqa. Existing free coaching on Garmin devices may become limited as Garmin integrates TrainingPeaks plans into this tier. For users reliant on TrainingPeaks across various devices, the platform remains cross-compatible for now, but the landscape may shift toward more Garmin-centered functionality. Before investing in Garmin fitness hardware, assess your willingness to commit to Connect+ costs for full coaching access and explore whether alternatives better match your preferences and budget.