Running Watch

[jenanderson]

Alright, bought the Nike+ and I am not thrilled with how at times it does not record my data accurately. For $16...it was a great start. Now, I am looking to buy something new so that I have accurate information. Before spending a huge amount of money, I want some advice.

Here is some information that might help you give me some input:

1. I was practically attached to a chair or couch at all times before January. I have been doing the C25K with great success (will finish week 7 tomorrow). So, I am a novice at this whole thing.

2. I love the data that I do get from my Nike+. I love seeing the graph of my runs, I love seeing my pace, I love seeing the total amount I have run since getting it. I love being able to make comments about the run (mood, weather, surface, etc).

3. I don't know if I would ever be worried about my heart rate - I probably should be but I just don't know how that would really help me. The data helps motivate me by seeing progress - what would the heart rate do for me?

4. I am registered for a 7K in March, a 5K in April and will register for more runs - mainly 5K, 7K and 10K. My long term goal is the Princess in 2011. Maybe one day I would consider a marathon but I am taking this one step at a time.

I would share more if I knew what would be helpful for giving me advice.

So...what would you recommend? I would love to hear the pros and cons of different models and brands.

Thanks everyone! I love all the input I get from all the experienced runners here - you are teaching me well!

Jen

[liznboys]

Hey Jen, I'm very happy with my Garmin 205, I got it in December. I haven't used the software yet, I just use the watch and it saves all my info in it. You can read lots of reviews on Amazon (that's where I bought mine):
http://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Forerunner-Receiver-Sports-Watch/dp/B000CSQJ8C/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1267238214&sr=8-2

Good luck! :)

[jam217]

I also have a Garmin 205 and like it very much. I don't use the software because the on screen display gives me all the info that I need.

[crewmatt]

Hey the Garmin's are pretty good I'm a fan, also you can pick up one on ebay usually for a discount. In addition if you have an iphone you can download mapmyrun app. Its either free or quite cheap.

As for heart rate, its a useful guage of the amount of effort you're exerting and what training band your in. For a C25K you don't need to worry so much about that. However if you find you're really getting into running and want to start doing various forms of speed and tempo type training, a heart rate monitor can be useful.

[Goofed98]

I've been using a Garmin 305 for a few years now, and I love it. Not only do you have plenty of information on your wrist during your run, but when you download to your computer, the fun really starts. Garmin Training Center is not a bad program (it comes with the Garmin, or can be downloaded for free from the website), but I really like SportTracks, from zonefivesoftware (also a free download). Sporttracks will incorporate the satellite views of where you ran, along with allowing you to view graphs of pretty much anything you may want.

[MouseDogMom]

I have a Garmin 205, and DH has the 305. He really likes seeing the heart rate info, but I don't care. I've stopped using Training Center and switched to Garmin Connect on the Garmin website (on the advice of the local Garmin rep), and I like it better.

I bought mine off Amazon as well.

Jackie

[lourodrigis]

I had a Garmin 205 for 2+ years and switched to a Garmin 305 this past year because the 205 broke. Both watches work great but the Garmin software is kind of weak. Like some have already mentioned, I also use SportsTrack to analyze my data. The program is awesome and free.

[jenanderson]

Thanks for the information everyone! I ordered the Garmin 305 from Amazon and added the things I need to use it on my bike as well. I can't wait for it to arrive! :thumbsup2

Thanks,
Jen