Can Garmin Lily 2 Active be used for advanced swim metrics

Advanced Swim Metrics

- Pool Swimming Tracking: The Lily 2 Active can track pool swims by allowing users to set the pool size, which enables accurate recording of swim lengths and intervals. It automatically logs these metrics as you swim, providing a detailed summary post-activity[1][4][5].

- Stroke Analysis: This device includes advanced metrics such as stroke count and efficiency, which are essential for swimmers looking to improve their technique[1][5].

- Data Syncing: After a swim workout, the data syncs with the Garmin Connect app, offering users a comprehensive analysis of their performance, including metrics that can be shared with third-party platforms like Strava[3][5].

Additional Features

- Built-in GPS: The addition of built-in GPS allows for accurate tracking of outdoor activities, although it is important to note that open water swimming does not support GPS tracking. This feature is primarily beneficial for land-based activities like running and cycling[2][3].

- User Interface Improvements: The introduction of physical buttons enhances usability during workouts, making it easier to navigate through different sports profiles and metrics without relying solely on the touchscreen[1][2].

- Custom Workouts and Training Plans: The watch supports structured workouts and Garmin Coach, enabling users to follow tailored training plans that can include swimming sessions[1][3].

- Heart Rate Monitoring: While swimming, the Lily 2 Active can monitor heart rate using its wrist-based sensor. However, users should be aware that the effectiveness of heart rate monitoring can vary during water activities due to the nature of the sensor[4].

Conclusion

Overall, the Garmin Lily 2 Active provides a robust set of features for swimmers, including advanced swim metrics, customizable workouts, and effective data syncing capabilities. While it excels in pool swimming tracking, potential users should consider its limitations regarding open water swimming when deciding if it meets their specific needs.

Citations:
[1] https://garminrumors.com/dc-rainmaker-garmin-lily-2-active-an-upgrade-worthy-of-being-called-lily-3/
[2] https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/2/24260540/garmin-lily-2-active-smartwatch-fitness-tracker
[3] https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2024/10/garmin-lily-2-active-with-gps-review.html
[4] https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-FABAD210-C716-48B1-AB1D-A09097F1CED4/EN-US/Lily_2_Active_OM_EN-US.pdf
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioBRrdmYjew
[6] https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/garmin-lily-2
[7] https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=iS2KcmGiVb4djrE1lri8i7
[8] https://www.garmin.com/en-US/c/sports-fitness/swimming-smartwatches/

Can the Garmin Lily 2 Active monitor swim heart rate in real-time

The Garmin Lily 2 Active can monitor swim heart rate in real-time. It features a wrist-based heart rate monitor that is specifically designed to track heart rate during swimming activities. Users can enable or disable this feature in the settings, ensuring that the watch actively measures heart rate while swimming[1][2].

Additionally, the Lily 2 Active can broadcast heart rate data in real-time over both ANT+ and Bluetooth. This capability allows users to connect their heart rate data to compatible devices or apps, such as gym equipment or fitness platforms like Peloton, enhancing the versatility of the watch during workouts[2][3].

Overall, the Lily 2 Active is equipped to provide comprehensive heart rate monitoring during swimming sessions, making it a valuable tool for swimmers looking to optimize their training.

Citations:
[1] https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-FABAD210-C716-48B1-AB1D-A09097F1CED4/EN-US/Lily_2_Active_OM_EN-US.pdf
[2] https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2024/10/garmin-lily-2-active-with-gps-review.html
[3] https://garminrumors.com/dc-rainmaker-garmin-lily-2-active-an-upgrade-worthy-of-being-called-lily-3/
[4] https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2024/01/garmin-lily-depth-review.html
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioBRrdmYjew
[6] https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/garmin-lily-2
[7] https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-C2B794A7-F2FB-456B-B090-69C0111C43CB/EN-US/Lily_2_OM_EN-US.pdf
[8] https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/2/24260540/garmin-lily-2-active-smartwatch-fitness-tracker

How accurate is the Garmin Lily 2 Active for swim distance and stroke type

The Garmin Lily 2 Active provides a solid performance when it comes to monitoring swim distance and stroke type, but its accuracy can vary based on several factors.

Swim Distance Accuracy

- Pool Swimming: The Lily 2 Active allows users to set the pool size, which is crucial for accurate distance tracking. It automatically records swim lengths and intervals based on this input. Users have reported that the swim distance recorded by the watch aligns well with actual distances when the pool size is correctly set[2][4].

- Connected GPS: While the watch itself does not have built-in GPS for open water swimming, it can leverage a connected smartphone's GPS for distance tracking during outdoor activities. This means that while swimming in a pool, the accuracy of distance tracking largely depends on the correct pool size setting[3][2].

Stroke Type Detection

- Stroke Counting: The Lily 2 Active is capable of counting strokes accurately during swimming sessions. It uses motion sensors to detect the arm movements associated with different swimming strokes. The watch records each stroke cycle and provides metrics such as stroke count and efficiency (measured through the Swolf score) after the swim[4][3].

- Swolf Score: This metric combines time and stroke count to assess swimming efficiency, where a lower score indicates better performance. The watch calculates this score based on the data collected during your swim, allowing swimmers to evaluate their technique effectively[4].

Conclusion

Overall, the Garmin Lily 2 Active is considered accurate for both swim distance and stroke type, especially when users ensure that the pool size is set correctly. For those swimming in open water, accuracy may depend on connected GPS from a smartphone rather than direct measurements from the watch itself.