Firstbeat Analytics was acquired by Garmin in 202o and its Analytics lab was quietly opened last year (2022). However, Garmin has now more formally announced that it is open for business,
We are thrilled to have the new Firstbeat Analytics Lab here in Finland. Since its beginnings 20 years ago, Firstbeat Analytics has employed some of the best physiologists and scientists in the world and now, combining that talent with the revolutionary equipment and technology in the new lab, we’re confident that it will foster innovation and help create cutting-edge features for future Garmin products. [Pulkkinen, Firstbeat Analytics MD]
Garmin will presumably use this facility as an internal testing ground for new monitoring technologies, new fitness algorithms and new fitness equipment rather than as a laboratory that can be used by outside sports professionals. There will be benefits from centralising these resources from across the Garmin organisation into one place and it makes sense that that place remains in Finland where many of Garmin/Firstbeat’s researchers already live.
Wahoo made its announcement for its research facility in 2022 and Polar, Suunto, Coros, et al will of course all have similar but smaller research capabilities.
Garmin charging puck — the fastest and most reliable way to top up your Garmin before a session. I use one.
Ravemen FR300 — Front light that mounts directly under your Garmin or Wahoo head unit. Keeps your bars clean and your beam pointed where it matters. I use one.
Body Glide – The blue anti-chafe stick that all swimmers and many runners use. I use it.
Maurten — The race nutrition trusted by elite athletes. Gels and drink mixes engineered to be easy on the stomach. I use them.
Garmin Varia RTL515 — A radar rear light that alerts you to vehicles approaching from behind. Pairs with your Edge or Wahoo. I use this model.
Favero Assioma Pro RS2 — The power-meter pedals most serious cyclists choose. Accurate, easy to move between bikes. I use this model.
Garmin Forerunner 970 — A serious choice for a pro-grade triathlon watch. I use this.
Polar H10 — My daily driver for accurate, waking HRV readings.
Wahoo ELEMNT Roam 3 — The bike computer that has the feature Garmin lacks: usability. I use mine on most rides.
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tfk is the founder and author of the5krunner, an independent endurance sports technology publication. With 20 years of hands-on testing of GPS watches and wearables, and competing in triathlons at an international age-group level, tfk provides in-depth expert analysis of fitness technology for serious athletes and endurance sport competitors. ID