As a gadget and tech junkie, it was to my good fortune that my initiation into the world of distance running roughly coincided with the appearance on the market of several new high-tech running gadgets: the Garmin Forerunner 205 and 305, and the Nike+ system. I have used both the Garmin Forerunner 205 and Nike+ for greater than 6 months each, and what follows is a review and comparison of my experiences with them.

The Nike+ System

Back in 2007, I was just beginning my life as a runner, and I was looking for tools to help me progress. The Garmin Forerunner and Nike+ systems both had instant appeal to my techie side, however I was initially hesitant to invest the several hundred dollars (at the time) needed to buy a Forerunner. I was also swept up in the excitement surrounding the introduction of the Nike+ system, and my first pair of “real” running shoes were Nike+ ready. Since I owned an Ipod Nano, and had shoes that could accommodate the little Nike+ foot pod accelerometer internally, I decided to give Nike + a try. In the interest of full disclosure, I’ll say at the outset that I no longer use the Nike+. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone since it does have its benefits and uses. The Nike+ certainly helped my running in those early days, and the motivation provided by the on-line Nike+ challenges was great. I liked being able to gauge my pace, track distance, and record my runs on-line. But for a perfectionist like myself, the Nike+ has some major drawbacks.

The most serious problem I had with the Nike+ was that it was only really accurate if I ran at the same steady pace on every run, and stuck to more-or-less flat ground. Any deviation from the pace you calibrate it at messes up both the pacing data as well as the distance recording for your run, and at times I found these measurements to be quite far off. Now, for many runners this is not a big deal, but if you like to mix up your training and include things like intervals, tempo runs, and long, slow runs, the Nike+ comes up way short. Furthermore, for me as a road racer, tenths of a mile and accurate pacing data matter a lot, so these shortcomings presented some major problems. That being said, I’m glad that I used it, and it did help a lot when I first started out. Even after I upgraded to the Garmin Forerunner 205, I did still continue to use Nike+ for treadmill runs (this probably goes without saying, but GPS doesn’t work on a treadmill). The Nike+ recordings on a treadmill are accurate enough, and in my case are more accurate than the readout of my treadmill’s own data console (it has never worked quite right for some reason).

I do believe that the Nike+ can be a valuable tool for a new or recreational runner. It’s cheap (less than $30.00), so it won’t dent your wallet too much if you decide you don’t like it, and the website and on-line community associated with Nike+ are both motivational and interesting. If you’re a new runner just starting out, or an experienced runner who tends to run most of your runs at the same pace, then the Nike+ would be a great addition to your running toolbox, and would surely provide some motivation for you to hit the road. However, as mentioned above, it has some major drawbacks for a serious runner who cares about missing tenths of a mile or needs really accurate pacing information.

Garmin Forerunner 205/305 GPS Wristwatch

If you want a personal running computer that will allow you to take your running to the next level and permit you to mix up your training runs with speed and long distance, you’re going to need something more than Nike+. I, unfortunately, am a perfectionist, and the inaccuracy of the pacing and distance data provided by Nike+ continually bugged me (and I was growing tired of mapping my runs on-line to figure out actual distances that I had covered). So, after about six months of consistent use, I decided to relegate the Nike+ to the treadmill only, and I asked Santa for a Garmin Forerunner 205 for Christmas. Sure enough, the fancy new GPS wristwatch was in my stocking, and it has not been absent from my wrist during a run in over a year. Simply stated, this is one of the coolest and most useful gadgets of any kind that I own, and it has allowed my running to progress in ways that probably would not have otherwise occurred.

First, let me explain the difference between the two current-generation Garmin Forerunner models (a fancy new waterproof model is on the way – the Garmin Forerunner 310 XT – but I’ll explain in a bit why I’d still go for one of the current ones for now if you’re considering a purchase). The two current models are the Forerunner 205 and the Forerunner 305. The only real differences between the two watches (besides color – the 205 is blue, and the 305 is red) are that the 305 can sync with an included heart rate monitor, an optional foot pod accelerometer (for the treadmill), and an optional speed-and-cadence sensor for your bike. Otherwise, from what I can gather, they are virtually identical. Given the minor price difference between the two Forerunners (about $10.00-$15.00 more for the 305), it would seem to make sense to go with the 305 if you’ve decided to buy a Forerunner.

So, I have now been using the Forerunner 205 regularly for over a year, and I have absolutely nothing but good things to say about it. The pacing data is right on (I have run enough chip-timed races with the 205 to verify this), as is the distance data. In addition to time, current pace, and distance, I have three data screens (which is the max on the 205/305) set up to show such variables as average pace, elevation, percent grade, calories burned, and time of day. Of all of these, the only one that seems somewhat iffy from time to time is the elevation, though if you smooth it out in one of the training programs that sync with the Forerunner, elevation patterns look pretty good as well. So far, I have pretty much exclusively used the Forerunner in its most basic mode – to simply track my data while I run. It is possible to configure things like training/pacing partners and interval workouts on the watch, and to use it as a (very) basic real-time GPS mapping device for things like hiking, but I haven’t used it much for this. In addition to running, I have used it while walking, snowshoeing, and biking (less extensively), and it works great for all of the above.

For me, the two features that matter most from a training and racing standpoint are accurate pacing and distance measurements, and as I said above this is where the Forerunner blows away the Nike+. I actually trust the Forerunner more than most of the on-line mapping programs when it comes to calculating distance, and being able to import all of my data into the computer is great. For the latter, I have skipped the included Garmin Training Center software and instead use an amazing, free program called Sportracks. Sportracks downloads all of the data from the Forerunner and lets you look at it in almost any way that you could possibly want. Among other things, Sportracks gives you GPS route maps, tons of data graphing options (e.g., pace vs. distance, pace vs. elevation, mile splits, etc.), and keeps a detailed running log that includes run times/dates, weather conditions pulled from the internet, distances run, and calories burned. As a scientist who loves data, Garmin Forerunner + Sportracks makes me one very happy runner.

A few last comments about some potential concerns with the Forerunner bear mentioning. One of the concerns I initially had about these watches was their size. Yes, they are big, but I have never noticed it as a nuisance while running, and I actually think the size is a positive rather than a negative since it makes it easier to read your data on the go. This is one of the major reasons why I would probably not consider upgrading to the newer and smaller Forerunner 405 – if you pack too many data streams on a small screen then things could get awful hard to read at mile 20 of a marathon. The other concern someone in the market for a GPS watch might have is the forthcoming new Garmin Forerunner 310 XT, which is waterproof to 50m and offers wireless data transfer. It would take a lot of new bells and whistles for me to spend an extra $100-$200 to choose to purchase the new 310 XT over the current 205 or 305. The new watch looks sportier, and the wireless sync feature is nice, but I don’t really care if I can dive to 50m with it on. If for some reason I’m out for a run and I wind up 50m underwater, I probably won’t be resurfacing to make it back home anyway (though in all seriousness, I can see how the 310 XT might be useful to a triathlete). For me, I’ll stick with the 205/305.

Hopefully I’ve given you a feel for what the Garmin Forerunner 205/305 can do. Really, there’s probably a lot more that it is capable of than what I have discussed here, but the best way to experience it is to try it out. As a runner who has now completed 1,266.01 miles (did I mention that I love accuracy!) with the Garmin Forerunner 205 (and it’s still going strong, with no major problems), I can honestly say that next to my running shoes, this is the most essential piece of running gear that I own. I highly recommend the Forerunner – get one and you won’t be disappointed.

Author: Peter Larson, This View of Life Blog

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Many people look into the watch if they’re simply into being fit, but it’s important they know their features and you pick the best one for your needs.

Technology as of late has improved dramatically, and ones watch can have all kinds of interesting additions you may not be aware of. Waterproof a watch that’s safe from the effects of water are crucial if you are a diver, or swimmer, or you deal with water. And although most sports watches say waterproof, most aren’t that effective, some are only protected in shallow water.

Research carefully before buying, if you are a swimmer, look for something that can deal with depth. Heart rate monitors are actually pretty pricey by themselves, but many sports watches come equipped with them now! And you don’t have to worry about placement, it’s already in the perfect spot to measure your heart rate (your wrist).

People who do the usual cardio could really use something like this, because even when one owns a separate heart rate monitor, it doesn’t get much use as it’s not very convenient. The watch on the other hand, is extremely convenient for heart monitoring. Not to mention, if you have heart issues, that watch can be a very valuable tool for your health. GPS System Is it really possible? Can you really have a GPS on your watch?

Sounds too good to be true right? It’s not, GPS systems have managed to get extremely tiny. And it’s not too extravagant, many people may think a watch with GPS is spy territory, but think about it, a device like that on your watch can save your life when hiking, dealing with trails, or find yourself lost outside the car (assuming it has GPS). Logs and Records Some advanced watches can actually take note and remember your speed, heart rate, location, and more.

That feature is perfect for anyone training, you won’t need to drag someone along anymore to get your distance, times, etc. That’s a big deal, you can spare your partner and get this training done on your own! Many watches can even remember the specific places you’ve ran, routes you were taking, and even past workouts! This means you accomplish more and do it more effectively.

Overall, sports watches have improved dramatically over the years, why not look into what you’re missing, you may be shocked at what you can do these days.



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If you are serious about your sport, whether it be running, cycling, hiking skiing, windsurfing or even skydiving, a gps watch can be a powerful tool for tracking, measuring and improving your performances.

An advanced sports gps watch can accurately measure:



Speed

Distance

Elevation above sea-level



What’s more, many watches with gps can plot 3D maps over a traveled route that can later be downloaded to a PC or Mac and then reviewed and analyzed in a custom software package.

Combining this with advanced sports watch features, like memory storage/recall, interval timers, heart rate zones and speed, pace and distance alerts and you get a complete wrist-watch training computer, capable of taking you to the next level!

While having all these features can be exciting, it can also be overwhelming when you first start shopping around for the right watch. As most gps watches are quite sophisticated, this makes it difficult to know which features suit your needs and which are nice, but most likely not ones you’ll use in day-to-day use.

Our guide will take you through the process and will familiarize you with the key questions you need to ask yourself when you are comparing watches. With, the most common questions clear in your mind, selecting the right model will likely be a breeze.

Step 1: Decide how you will be using your watch There are different types of GPS watches for different purposes; Your buying decision hinges on how you will use your GPS watch, so this is an important thing to be clear on.

This may seem obvious, but knowing which of these categories you fall into can save you a lot of time and effort.

Some watches will cater to fitness and sport, among other things, these models will have a lot of features that will suit runners, cyclists, triathletes and other athletes, like memory storage and recall, interval timers, heart rate monitors and pace and distance alerts. Other models will have navigational features allowing you to mark locations, plot courses, then navigate between waypoints in your area. Some watches will even support both.

GPS Sport Watch Models The watches below utilize GPS for fitness and performance.



Garmin Forerunner 101, 201, 301, 205, 305, 405

Timex Ironman Bodylink Heart Rate Monitor Watch T5F011

Timex Ironman Trail Runner Bodylink Heart Rate Monitor Watch T5J985

Timex Women’s Ironman Trail Runner Bodylink Heart Rate Monitor Watch T5G311

Timex Ironman Triathlon T5E701

Timex Ironman T5E691 Men’s 100-Lap Speed + Distance Watch

Polar Training Computer GPS Watch FT60M

Polar RS800G3 Multisport GPS Computer Heart Rate Monitor Watch

Suunto T3c Multisport Pack

Suunto T4c Multisport Pack

Suunto T6c Multisport Pack<

GlobalSat Personal GPS Sport Watch With Heart Monitor



Navigation GPS Watches The watches below utilize GPS for navigation.



Garmin Forerunner 101, 201, 301, 205, 305

Suunto X10 Sports Computer Wristop Altimeter Watch

Suunto X9Mi Wrist-Top GPS Computer Watch

Suunto X9i Wrist-Top GPS Computer Watch

GlobalSat Personal GPS Sport Watch With Heart Monitor



Step 2: Question – Decide if you need real-time signal reliability? A common complaint about GPS systems is the signal dropping out without warning.

This is especially common GPS watch models with older chipsets. This problem can be somewhat resolved by ensuring you only use your GPS watch in places where there is a clear, unobstructed view of the sky – i.e. not around tall buildings or trees.

The latest GPS watches use the SirFStar III chipset, which is more sensitive and reliable than older chipsets. This is not to say the older watches are not good choices, some have dropped considerably in price making them great value for money, but deciding if high reliablility is important will impact your choice.

If you only wish to pinpoint your location infrequently, then high reliability is not such a big deal.

For instance, say you are out kayaking on the Amazon river, you come to a fork and need to decide whether to go right or left… chances are you probably don’t care too much if your GPS signal drops occasionally, so long as you can quickly pick it up again when you need it.

On the other hand you are running your 5th London Marathon and need to know your exact kilometer pace at the 10km mark so as to know if you are running too fast or too slow – then a signal drop out is highly undesirable.

An alternative to gps that may be worth considering is a foot pod device that measures your leg turn-over or cadence and calculates speed and distance and all the other good stats based on your leg-speed alone. When correctly calibrated a foot pod can be quite accurate and does not suffer from signal obstruction like a gps unit does.

GPS Sport Watch Models with Older Chipsets These GPS watches utilize older chipsets. They are generally slower to link to the satellites and may lose the signal more frequently.



Garmin Forerunner 101, 201, 301, 205, 305, 405

Suunto X9Mi Wrist-Top GPS Computer Watch

Suunto X9i Wrist-Top GPS Computer Watch



GPS Sport Watch Models with Modern Chipsets These GPS watches utilize a modern chipset like the SiRFstar-III or equivalent.



Garmin Forerunner 205, 305, 405

Timex Ironman Bodylink Heart Rate Monitor Watch T5F011

Timex Ironman Trail Runner Bodylink Heart Rate Monitor Watch T5J985

Timex Women’s Ironman Trail Runner Bodylink Heart Rate Monitor Watch T5G311

Timex Ironman Triathlon T5E701

Timex Ironman T5E691 Men’s 100-Lap Speed + Distance Watch

Polar Training Computer GPS Watch FT60M

Polar RS800G3 Multisport GPS Computer Heart Rate Monitor Watch

Suunto T3c Multisport Pack

Suunto T4c Multisport Pack

Suunto T6c Multisport Pack

Suunto X10 Sports Computer Wristop Altimeter Watch

GlobalSat Personal GPS Sport Watch With Heart Monitor



Step 3: Consider comfort and style and “Coolness” While tons of features are probably main reason for buying a GPS watch in the first place, if you like to wear your watch in a casual setting as well as for sport then it goes without saying you should find one you like the look of. But I’m sure you don’t need us to tell you.

The latest watch from Garmin, the Forerunner 405, has a few less features than it’s predecessor, the 305, but looks pretty darn cool, whereas the Forerunner 305 is more like a brick on your wrist! The Suunto T series watches models that support GPS look as natural in town as on the track.

Also consider comfortably the watch fits your wrist. If you are more comfortable with an external gps device attached to you, then you can enjoy a smaller wristwatch, whereas a single gps-watch unit is a lot bulkier.

Step 4: Other criteria Often the most heavily promoted features of popular products, are not the ones you are really interested in. This is an unfortunate part of marketing, but luckily we’ve dug deep and come up with a list of some less obvious features that might be just what you’re looking for.



Sunrise & Sunset Time: Forerunner 405, 205/305

Computer Fitness Opponent: Forerunner 405, 305/205 (Virtual Partner Feature)

Goal Tracking: Forerunner 405

Touch Sensitive Bezel: Forerunner 405

Wireless Data Transfer: Forerunner 405

Compete Against Historical Sessions: Forerunner 405, 205/305 (courses feature)

Distance Traveled While Paused: Forerunner 205/305

4 field customizable display: Forerunner 205/305

Vertical Speed: Suunto X9/i, X9M/i, Timex Bodylink Trail Runner T5J985

Altitude Alarm: Suunto X9/i, X9M/i, Timex Bodylink Trail Runner T5J985

Thermometer: Suunto X9/i, X9M/i

Barometer: Suunto X9/i, X9M/i

Barometric Altimeter: Suunto X9/i, X9M/i, Suunto T6C Multisport Pack

Weather Alarm (Barometric Pressure): Suunto X9/i, X9M/i

Altitude Stats: Suunto X9/i, X9M/i, Suunto T6C Multisport Pack, Polar RS800G3

Compass Feature: Forerunners 101, 201, 301, 205, 305, 405, Suunto X9/i, X9M/i, Timex Bodylink Trail Runner T5J985, Globalsat GH-615B/615M

6400 MILS Bearing Display: Suunto X9/i, X9M/i

Beat to beat variation in heart beat intervals: Polar RS800G3

EPOC: Suunto T6C Multisport Pack

Training Effect: Suunto T3C and T6C Multisport Packs



A note about power Let’s make one thing clear. GPS watches suck up a LOT of juice! Fortunately, many models use rechargeable batteries.

There are generally two types of GPS sports watch – those that you wear on your wrist and those that require you to attach an external device to your body. The wristwatch type are almost always rechargeable, whereas external gps watches generally use AA or AAA batteries.

Most provide around 8-14 hours of continuous gps tracking and allow the gps to be switched off when not needed, so as to save power.

For you ultra distance runners, even 15 hours might not be enough. Fortunately popping a spare battery into an external gps is a trivial task, even on the run. For everyone else, I’m guessing 8 hours of gps time is more than adequate.

A Note about Water Usage Like fire and cats, gps watches don’t mix too well with water. Most units can survive a few splashes, or the accidental dropping in the kitchen sink, but using your watch for swimming or diving is definitely not recommended and the signal reception can not be expected to be accurate under these circumstances.

This is unfortunate for Triathletes for who a gps watch would be a valuable tool for recording and assessing their performances over multi-disciplines

By now you should (hopefully) have a better understanding about which gps sports watch unit is right for you. You may even know what you’re looking for. If you are pretty sure what you want, but want more information head to our website, where we have more information about gps and other types of sports watches.



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