verified
Pixel Watts with Garmin (Tacx)
Garmin sells its smart trainers under the Tacx brand — a “Garmin trainer” is a Tacx. The Tacx range is verified end to end with Pixel Watts.
- Everything on the Tacx page applies one to one: FTMS over Bluetooth, ERG, simulation.
- Garmin sensors (heart rate, cadence) pair over Bluetooth as well.
Looking for the Tacx details? /trainer/tacx
Riding in three minutes
- Close Garmin/Tacx apps — the trainer accepts only one controlling Bluetooth connection.
- Open app.pixelwatts.com in Chrome or Edge (or the Mac/iPad app) and go to “Pair”.
- Pedal briefly, choose “Smart Trainer” — your machine reports in under its Tacx name.
- Pair a Garmin chest strap (HRM-Dual and friends) as the heart-rate sensor if it broadcasts Bluetooth.
- Ride — the demo stage needs no account.
Common Garmin trainer questions
I own a “Garmin trainer” — which page applies to me?
The Tacx page: Garmin acquired Tacx in 2019 and sells the trainers under that name. Technically a Garmin NEO is a Tacx NEO.
Does my Garmin chest strap work?
Yes, if it broadcasts Bluetooth — HRM-Dual and newer send ANT+ and Bluetooth at the same time. ANT+-only straps (older HRMs) are invisible to the app.
Do my rides end up in Garmin Connect?
Via FIT export: every ride downloads as a FIT file and imports into Garmin Connect. Direct auto-sync exists for Strava and Intervals.icu.
Do I need ANT+?
No — everything runs over Bluetooth (FTMS). The ANT+ stick from your head unit stays where it is.