Using Garmin’s Virtual Run for Bluetooth HR on Tacx and Zwift
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Garmin software version 8.10 for the Fenix 6 was released on March 23rd 2020 and bring with it this very exciting addition!
Added support for Virtual Running. (Download the Zwift mobile app and launch the “Virtual Run” activity profile on your Garmin device.) - Garmin Website
This update, in essence, broadcasts over bluetooth your heart rate, cadence and pace to a supported piece of software (Tacx & Zwift)!
Now, it is a little strange how they introduced support for virtual running - which I only image is a rather niche category - before virtual cycling which is extremely popular with the likes of Tacx and Zwift. Historically Garmin watches have been able to broadcast your heart rate but only via ANT+ which requires an ANT+ receiver to be plugged into your computer. While not the worst, it certainly is not that smooth of an experience, especially with the more universally supported Bluetooth hanging around.
This update changes this for running - and as we will see - cycling too (although unofficially supported.
How Does The Workaround Work?
All you need to do is to update your Garmin - start a Virtual Run workout and leave it on the pairing screen. Once on this screen your software should detect your Garmin via Bluetooth - no need for that pesky ANT+ dongle!
One final note is that because this is just a bit hacky, the watch will time out of this screen after about 30min and go to the main watch face. You can stop this by pressing any button (I recommend the backlight button) as this will delay the timeout.
If it times out and goes to the home screen it will lose the Bluetooth connection. No sweat, simply go back into Virtual Run and it will reconnect after a few seconds.
What it Looks Like
For me, this is extremely sweet because it means I can use my new iPad Pro 12.9 to connect to my Tacx trainer (power, cadence, speed and control as well as my HR via my Garmin Fenix 6 all using Bluetooth! No ANT+ dongle - just a charging cable, my bike trainer and a whole lot of sweat.
—- Happy sweating 👋