Running Gadgets and Garmins - Advice Please

[MavisCruet]

Really interested in getting a watch with GPS to help map my run. Does anyone have any recommendations for a simple to use one that provides good information, distance/time etc? I've heard about Garmins but I'm not sure where to start as I don't really know what to look for!

[AliB1 Graduate]

Don't know about watches but after reading another question on here I've downloaded the endomondo app to my phone and used it this morning for the first time. It's great...maps your run, gives you time / splits etc and also during the run tells you when you've got to 1km / 2km etc and what your times is. And the bonus is it is free!

[Tkdgirl1983]

Another vote for endomondo here. Recommended to me and so glad I downloaded it. I find the stats really motivating

[Greg_M Graduate]

I use the 110 which is the entry level end of the scale and its really good. Simple to set up and use and links to the Garmin site for stats updates, maps and history.

If you pay more it seems what you get is the ability to program training routines and intervals if that's your bag. That didn't appeal to me though (or my wallet!)

[Greg_M Graduate]

The mobile phone apps are good as well and if you run with your phone might be the obvious choice, I didn't want the extra clutter of my phone banging about as well though.

Out of interest for those that use them how easy is it to do pace and distance checks as you go? Or do you just set it off and look at the end? I would have to unlock my phone, find the app etc and I can't imagine the novelty of that lasting more than one run when I can just have a quick glance at my wrist.

[Hidden in reply to Greg_M]

Hi Greg, I've used both. Another vote for Endmondo from me, the stats are superb. E.g. Run for 10k and it will confirm your best 5k, best 12 mins etc.

The iPhone app announce performance over the music. Which is really good e.g. average pace every km. I find this easier than monitoring the Garmin wrist watch.

Having said that, the watch is so much less hassle in terms of weight and complexity. Now i am less obsessed with stats I mostly use the watch to record the data and then upload it to Endmondo web app. The watch also has HR monitor which I like using.

[AliB1 Graduate]

Greg, think it would be a pain if you wanted to check during the run. I just set it and check at the end. At the mo, I just want the overall stats so I can see what progress I've made. Think once been going for a while might get a clever watch!

[MavisCruet]

Thanks for the advice, I had a look at the endomondo app but it's not compatable with my phone as mines a older 3G think and doesn't have GPS. I like the idea of being able to check on the go easily so off to have a look further at Garmin 110, I want the simpler version so this sounds good choice for me, they do come at a price though !

[JR21]

I've got a Garmin 110 and it's good fun to use. Have used it endomondo and Garmin's own run tracker site. The stats do make you furrow your brow from time to time - I've run faster than Seb Coe at his best on occasion - but if you focus on the overall times rather than the pacing bit they're usually about right.

I've also got the heart monitor for the Garmin but have never used it. Sounds good in theory but I can never be bothered to strap it on.