TomTom Runner GPS Watch Review

TomTom Runner GPS

The TomTom Runner GPS Watch is the first real product from TomTom in the highly competitive GPS watch category. This watch has some great features, including some fun graphic modes that are almost too good in that you want to look at the screen instead of run. It’s a solid entry that should be looked at by most runners.

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Garmin Forerunner 220 GPS Running Watch

Garmin Forerunner 220 GPS Watch

The Garmin Forerunner 220 GPS watch provides both the real-time encouragement and long-term trend analysis. Built for the runner who’s willing to go the extra mile, it’s simple to use, lightweight to reduce fatigue, and one of the most popular GPS watches on the market. As the little cousin to the Garmin Forerunner 620, the FR220 holds its own. [Read more...]

Garmin FR620 GPS Running Watch with Heart Rate Monitor

Garmin Forerunner 620 GPS Running Watch

Wow. I haven’t seen or heard as much hype about a new running watch in a long time. The Garmin Forerunner 620 is one of the latest and greatest GPS watches on the market. As the “big brother” to the Garmin FR220, it has more features, its more accurate, and has greater capabilities to improve your personal goals. I’ve only had a day to look at it, but here is my Garmin 620 review. Click here to buy one now.

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Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports Watch and MP3 Player

Motorola MOTOACTV is a state of the art fitness tracker for runners with a smart MP3 player packed into a small, sweat proof, wearable and stylish device. It gives a feeling of a personal trainer along with a DJ dabbling in music. With Accusense technology and GPS track, your running data, like time, distance, speed and calories burned are easily tracked. You can monitor your performance directly on this device and online at the MOTOACTV Training Portal. The smart MP3 player plays hours and hours of your favorite music. Even its latest software upgrade features over 40 new track- able activities like yoga and jumping rope. Buy this watch at Amazon

Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports Watch and MP3 Player: Design

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3SIbokHetQ

Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports Watch and MP3 Player has a small, good-looking screen. It is designed with a fitness focused GPS with an MP3 player. It has a touchscreen display that provides quick and easy access of data no matter under what light. The smart mp3 player boasts of holding about 4000 songs plus giving an option of making your own playlist. Wi- fi can directly be accessed from this watch and you can even track your workout performance.

My favorite part about its design is the band for strapping the Motorola MOTOACTV around your wrist for use as a timepiece. The band is a bit wide with dual rows of eyelets to accept the latch’s double- pronged buckle. Alternatively, you can use it with an armband. Aggressively styled in black with red, the watch face is also massive, resembling retro look. As a man, I like the design, but it may be a bit strong for some women runners.

Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports Watch and MP3 Player: Usability

Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports Watch and MP3 Player is a perfect choice as the next generation sports watch. In fact it is small in size but massive in its abilities. It has a flashy, glossy kind of look but can be worn everyday. It can be used by workout and racing lovers who like keeping tracks of their performance whilst listening to their adrenaline- pumping music. For indoor workouts, it also has an accelerometer that helps to track steps taken or calories burned. If you are phone savvy, then to use this watch you must have an Android mobile phone as Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports Watch and MP3 Player is compatible with Android mobile phones.

My favorite usability feature is the start button for working out. It reminds me a lot of the simple button on my Apple iPhone. However, if you are an iPhone user, the volume controls are located on the right side, opposite of your phone. So, that is something to get used to.

Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports Watch and MP3 Player: Features

If all you want is a straight-forward GPS running watch, you can’t go wrong with the Garmin 410. But, if music is your thing, take a look at these features. Running a bona fide version of Google’s Android OS, the Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports watch and MP3 Player is more like a mini computer than just an ordinary GPS watch or music player. Like the iPod Nano, this watch too has an internal accelerometer that serves as a pedometer. Motorola MOTOACTV also adds a GPS receiver for tracking your activity outdoors, a Wi- Fi radio, and Bluetooth hardware that supports the new Bluetooth 4.0 spec. You can transfer music files to the MOTOACTV via USB connection using the MotoCast software, which is located within the device memory. With the application, the watch syncs tracks stored in the iTunes folder or can be mounted as a drive so you can drag and drop tunes manually.

Packed in the box is an 8 GB Fitness Tracker/ GPS/ Smart Music Player unit, Pair of SF200 sports headphones, Pairs of replacement ear buds, Dual- Port universal charger, USB charging cable, MOTOACTV clip, Quick start guide, Wrist strap, Latest Software Updates enable tracking your performance across 40 new activities including yoga, dancing and martial arts and monitoring your data online.

You can also activate your display with a flick of the wrist, set up Wi- Fi directly on your device, and conduct your own competitions at the MOTOACTV Training Portal. To install, you just have to connect your MOTOACTV device to your PC or Mac. It has an easy to use scratch- proof touch screen that displays and provides quick and easy access to the data that you want most. It automatically adjusts to lighting conditions so it gives clear and visible data, both indoors and outdoors. The scratch-resistant 1.6″ screen holds up your toughest workout reports. The watch also maximizes your free time by scheduling a walk, run or ride online with the help of its MOTOACTV Training Portal’s planning calendar. It is a great way to stay on schedule, save your routes and introduce new workouts to your routine. The smart MP3 Player holds about 4,000 songs. You can even prepare your own playlist and update them easily. It is even easy to plan workouts, create long- term goals and analyze your performance right online at the MOTOACTV Training Portal. Just visit MOTOACTV.com and sign in with your MotoCast ID (device setup required). Your workout data is then automatically uploaded to the site wirelessly from your device so you can chart your progress effortlessly. Its measurements are- 2″L x 3/8″W x 2″H (approx.), Material Composition: Plastic, metal and glass, Power Source:1 lithium ion battery.

This is definitely a feature rich watch. I’m most excited about the opportunities offered by the built-in software. This will allow Motorola to add features as they develop them. So, adding more GPS features or wireless features to a heart rate monitor are certainly within reach.

Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports Watch and MP3 Player: Summary

Before I conclude, a quick disclosure…I do not run with music. Although it was fun testing this device, I will continue to run without music. If you do choose to run with music and use headphones, I strongly encourage you to learn how to safely run when wearing headphones.

The watch has integrated maps and can also wirelessly route calls from your phone to ensure you do not get interrupted throughout your workout. It is also a perfect choice for a workout MP3 player. The Motorola MOTOACTV 8GB GPS Sports watch and MP3 Player is a state of the art fitness tracker and smart MP3 player packed into a small, water proof and stylish device. Its Accusense technology and GPS track your running and walking data like time, distance, speed and calories burned. You can monitor your performance directly on your device and online at the MOTOACTV Training Portal. The smart MP3 player stores hours and hours of your favorite songs and actually ‘knows’ what tunes motivate you the most. The Motorola MOTOACTV is a veritable jack- of- all- trades. It keeps track of outdoor exercises via GPS, planning out route maps that you can access on the watch’s screen. The device possesses a smart MP3 player built in that learns your preferred workout music, there is an accelerometer for indoors activity tracking and calorie burned. The Motorola MOTOACTV can even sync with Ant+ equipment including heart rate sensors and biking speed sensors. This is a very cool watch with a lot of extra, but fun features. If music and running is your thing, you should have this watch.

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Garmin Forerunner 410 GPS with Heart Rate Monitor

The Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor running watch comes with a broad range of features for the running enthusiast who is looking forward to refining his running skills. This running watch offers both a GPS and HRM, to help prepare for a big race day when slight variations in time and distance could spell the difference between meeting personal goals or just missing them. The watch is simple to look at, yet extends basic functions in various dimensions to suit a range of running styles. Read ahead to see if this watch could be considered one of the best GPS watch for runners. Check pricing on this GPS heart rate monitor watch.

Click to Buy the Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor Features at Amazon.

Full Review

Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor Design 

Basic Physical Features of the 410 with HRM

The Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor measures only 1.88 inches in width, 2.78 inches in height and 0.646 inches in depth (4.8 cm width, 7.1 cm height and 1.6 cm depth). With a display screen a mere 2.7 cm in diameter and a screen resolution of 124 by 95 pixels, the watch does not deliberately feature a touchscreen, which would become oversensitive and unsuitable for the marathon runner prone to body heat and sweat.

The chargeable lithium-ion battery incorporated in the Forerunner 410 heart monitor watch goes on for almost two weeks when in power saver mode. In the training mode, with full power consumption, it is built to last for a minimum eight hours, during which time anyone participating in a marathon for the first time would be able to achieve their finish.

Customizable Display of the Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor

The Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor has display options that are customizable to minimize clutter in the display area and enable you to display selected pieces of data, preferably two or three details at a time. This is in conjunction with the details of heart rate function.

Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor Usability

Usability Incorporated in the Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor

This Garmin with GPS and heart rate monitor functions at a constant pace for up to eight hours. Among user-friendly features of the Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor is the wrist band with a quick release snap feature for quick and easy removal. The color scheme looks much neater, with a sense of power and majesty and controls are neither too sensitive nor seem too awkward while pressing. This allows the wearer to be able to push the control buttons even when wearing hand gloves or similar protection when the weather gets colder.

The advanced controls that respond to touch are designed for a number of different displays and enable you to accomplish a large number of operations much faster and more conveniently than ever before. The Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor also features several automatic tracking functions as part of the GPS, such as Auto Pause for stoplights and AutoLap for automatic lap initiation.

As a heart rate monitor and GPS, the 410 displays important notifications regarding your time exhausted and distance accomplished, heart rate monitoring and pace notifications as well as calorific consumption based on heart rate data.

Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor Features

Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor Features Superior Heart Rate Observation

The 410 is a variant of the Garmin 405 watch and exactly like the 410 without the heart rate monitor. However it is much more superior when compared to the Garmin 405 and includes a chest strap besides better controls. The Garmin Forerunner 410 HRM features a premium chest strap that is much more comfortable than the most chest straps and aids the heart rate monitor capture precise cardiac rhythms. The strap is slightly wider than some others, but you won’t really notice it.

The Tempo Monitoring Function in the Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor

The watch features a tempo function with which you can set up a pre-selected tempo based on your goals and monitor your tempo in real time against the pre-selected tempo. This enables you to ascertain whether you went faster or slower than your pre-selected tempo. This is a very useful feature for the marathon trainer who is often at a risk of overtraining or undertraining. Since the goal of the marathon training schedule is to build endurance gradually, without having to lose time from unintended mishaps, this tempo monitoring feature is an indispensable watch function.

Data Integration Capability of the Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor

The data collected in the 410 HRM can be transferred using a wireless network or through a USB cable attached to your computer. The data integration capability of the watch works across the Microsoft Windows as well as the Macintosh platforms. Also a number of standard browsers are supported, including Safari. All data can be reviewed on your computer and uploaded to various Internet services for additional analysis.

Indicators of Training Accomplishment through Your Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor

The HRM watch has built in functionality for both basic training routines as well as enhanced training workouts. While basic routines work with preset time, calorie and mileage targets, enhanced routines are designed for programming custom workouts. While working with these advanced routines, there is an option to setup alerts when you deviate from your intended pace for that session or when you accomplish a goal in terms of time or distance. Another useful feature to help you train better is the ability to create intervals for exercise sessions and rest periods.

Additional Features of the Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor

Besides basic features, the Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor includes certain useful attributes including automatically synchronizing data with your PC and using the Garmin connect interface to share data and analyze it in an internet community. Besides, the watch comes with the Garmin Training Center software and allows Automatic Browse, a feature designed to traverse through information during your training session.

Other automatic functions included is the Automatic Pause function which is a program in the chipset that stops and starts an inbuilt timer based upon your running speed. This is a great feature should you run on city streets with a lot of stop lights. The Automatic Lap function is included in the watch design to enable the beginning of a new lap without any manual intervention.

Garmin Forerunner 410 with Heart Rate Monitor: A Multifunction Concept

In a nutshell, the running watch is a multi function watch for the ambitious runner, and incorporates several combinations of basic and advanced features to let the marathon trainer precisely focus on training goals across a range of dimensions. The watch offers great features for a very competitor price making the Garmin Forerunner 410 with heart rate monitor one of the best running trainers around.

Help support Running Watch Review. The Garmin Forerunner 410 GPS with Heart Rate Monitor is available from Amazon: Buy | Reviews

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Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS Watch with Heart Rate Monitor

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor is a high performer with smart looks, an inbuilt GPS that synchronizes in less than five minutes, an affordable price tag and an online logging and synchronization capability. The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor has all that it takes to be a professional runner’s companion. Check pricing on the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor.

Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor Design

Unique Style of the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor and Watch

This watch comes in a sleek blackish grey casing with superior aesthetics reflected in the color blending scheme of its physical appearance. In the model we looked at, there is an orange color liner that surrounds its circular dial, and the back and select buttons are aligned along the horizontal axis of the display area.

Overall looks are somewhat industrial. The face of the watch is large, but not considered the largest in the market by a longshot.

Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor Usability

The Timex brand backs the reputation of the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor watch and speaks volumes about its strict standards in function, durability and dependability.

Display Features

The display area is populated with essential information in black over a white background, and details are legible and clear. Extra large digits not only ensure better readability, but also add a sense of style to the overall look and feel of the watch. The display area can be adjusted to show up to four lines of training data. This means that this GPS watch with heart rate monitor makes it possible to keep track of your distance, split times as well as pace simultaneously.

Flexible Chest Strap for Added Comfort

There is a chest strap included with the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor that is essential to measuring the heart rate. The strap, known as the Flextech Digital strap, features a signal of about 2.4 megahertz intensity. The chest strap is very pleasant to wear, unlike the rubber or plastic chest bands, and is extremely light weight.

Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor Features

Unique Timers included

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor contains essential programmed functions, the simplest of which is the electronic timer. The watch has five inbuilt timers which can be customized by users. The watch function is sufficiently tested, including a recovery timer, which is unique to Timex watches.

Another unique set of timers included with the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor watch are the hydration and nutrition timers. The hydration and nutrition timers offer basic timer functionality, and the feature is thoughtfully included by the watch designers and readily and conveniently available to the marathoner anytime during his or her marathon running training schedule. The wearer, for easy tracking and identification, can label all timers programmed in the watch.

Data Storage and Transfer Function

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor watch comes with a USB cable, which serves the function of data transfer as well as battery recharge. The USB cable connector of the watch is also useful while working with the Training Peaks Online log. A Device Agent attaches to the watch and enables data analysis online.

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate monitor can store data for around twenty sessions of workouts. Summary is marked by dates for review later on.

A Note on the GPS Function

The GPS functions included in the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS with Heart Rate monitor and watch are powered by the SiRF starIV GPS which connects very quickly to the satellite in order to measure your speed, pace and time exhausted in real time, during your long run or short sprint. The GPS accompanying the monitor and watch is fine tuned to connect easily to the relevant satellites as well as maintain an uninterrupted connection throughout your marathon running training regimen.

A standard lithium iron battery is built into the watch casing which also powers the GPS monitor. The battery is designed to support the GPS monitor which consumes a lot of power during transmission of data. Manufacturers claim that the battery would last for up to nine working hours without requiring a recharge. A minimum of seven to eight hours of watch function is expected from the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor battery backup.

Pace Tracking

Among other useful features of the watch is the ability to record rates at which you climb uphill and traverse downhill during hilly terrains in your marathon running training plan.  Altitude distances as well as rates are measurable by the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS with Heart Rate monitor and watch.

In order to give further control over tracking your pace, the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor has the ability to retain up to fifty custom routes in its memory. The monitor allows you to create routes by recording around 100 waypoints through its GPS function. This feature also allows for back tracking of your route should you ever get lost.

Important Functions in the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor Make It the #1 Choice

A no calibration GPS technology and an accurate as well as efficient heart rate monitor are the two most important functions included in the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor. Several timers for tracking intervals and countdowns, a hands-free independent chronograph operation and a multisport mode for recording transitions as well as activities makes this GPS running watch the best choice in comprehensive running equipment available today.

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor is undoubtedly one of the best tracking solutions available to marathon trainers in the market today.

Read more GPS Watch Reviews or Heart Rate Monitor Reviews.

Help support Running Watch Review. The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS Watch with Heart Rate Monitor is available from these online stores:

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Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS Running Watch

The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch is highly acclaimed for its ease of use and targeted comfort to the women’s segment, including a large portion of marathon runners, working out their marathon training plan and building endurance for their very first marathon run. The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 is a GPS watch with an affordable price tag and a trendy smooth appearance that will appeal women.

Click to Buy the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 at Amazon.

Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS Running Watch: Design

Feminine Appeal of the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS Running Watch

The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS watch is designed to completely imbibe the sporty and vivacious personality of the female marathoner. The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch comes in a cool grey color with a bright pink liner which gives it the feminine touch.

Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS Running Watch: Usability

Low Power Consumption by the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS Running Watch

It is surprising to note that the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch, which features the SiRFstarIV chipset consumes a mere 8 mW of power during its run. When compared to the standard 20 mV of power consumed by most watches in a similar market segment and configuration, the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 seems to be at an advantage in terms of leaner power usage and high performance.

Features of General Appeal in The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110

The fact that the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch weighs only 52 grams makes it all the more attractive in the form of a good function tracker for the marathon runner on her training stride. The battery takes only around an hour to charge for first time use. Initial questions programmed into the watch for basic resetting functionality at startup require less than a minute to complete and get the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 functioning smoothly. Since the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 relies on satellite data for certain functions, you might have to wait for another half minute to let it locate satellites and power itself up before beginning your running plan according to the training schedule for your marathon run.

Convenient Function Layout in the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110

The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch features a round medium sized dial with four buttons along the periphery for monitoring lap times, illuminating the front panel with the inbuilt light and activating or deactivating the menu. The two main areas of the screen along the vertical axis are designated for displaying the pace and distance of the marathon runner as she sprints across the race track. The four push buttons are not too sensitive, putting the women marathon runner at an advantage, since long runs can get sweaty and a sensitive interface or buttons could get on your nerves, should they give rise to troublesome operation in the middle of your running track. Convenient operation is a terrific usability feature in the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch.

Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS Running Watch: Features

GPS Powered Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110

The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 is powered with a GPS, specifically the SiRFstarIVTM GPS chip. The GPS battery included in the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch is designed to last comfortably for a full eight hour cycle.

Pace and Vital Function Measurement in the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110

The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 includes a meter to calculate the current pace and incorporates internal calculations that enable it to display the pace as an average function for either the current lap, the current mile or for the entire run on that particular long-run day. A related output of this function is to monitor and display the heart rate in conjunction with calories consumed, as you work your way through your usual long runs. For the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110, heart rate is an optional feature and you could choose a model that suits your requirements. The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 which features the heart rate function also comes with a monitor in the form of a strap that is supposed to be worn around the chest of the marathon trainer.

Workout Data Storage and Transfer Featured in the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110

The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch is programmed to automatically store data about your workout in the history space allocated by the watch. This space is designed to hold details of up to 180h of workouts during your marathon running training schedules or your final marathon run. The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 connects to your computer through its USB cable and allows you to easily transfer workout data. The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 recommends uploading data to the Garmin connect account that is a useful interface to view data in the form of charts and possibly share the same with friends.

The Garmin Connect interface for workout data captured by the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch shows charts indicating heart rates and statistics about timing and elevation. The web interface allows you to visualize recorded data. Among the several features in the web interface, the ability to look into data on your runs on a geospatial platform like Google Earth makes the application an interesting choice. The Garmin Connect Interface allows you to make this data public, so as to allow everyone to view the data. Alternatively, you can keep it private or share it only with a closed group of people.

Simplicity and Essential Function Combined in Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS Running Watch

In conclusion, the Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 is the simple time keeping equipment without elaborate functionality, but with the wise inclusion of important functions that might be preferred by the vast majority of marathon trainers. The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 is specifically designed for outdoor running, hence includes basic indispensable information about pace, heart rate, time as well as distance. It enables women to keep track of their progress and make informed assessments about their performance during their running marathon training schedule. The Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 is designed with careful consideration to the most important needs of women runners and women need not look any further before grabbing an attractive Garmin Women’s Forerunner 110 GPS running watch before starting their marathon training.

Help support Running Watch Review. The Garmin Women’s Forerunning 110 GPS running watch is available online:

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What to Read Next

Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS Watch for Running

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch for running was released by Timex as direct competition to the Garmin Forerunner 210. The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch is stylish, sleek with fast satellite acquisition making it one of the best watches released by Timex so far. The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch is a must have for serious athletes and casual athletes who want more out of their training sessions. Click here to check the current price for Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS.

Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS Watch for Running: Design

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch for running is an excellent training companion. The innovative ergonomic case design of the watch allows it to actually sit on the inside of your wrist. The sleek design of the Timex Ironman does not scream out ‘sports enthusiast’ though very subtly puts the point across.

In built GPS watches being bulky and chunky are now thing of the past. The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch has made in built GPS watches slimmer and more stylish for even everyday use. It is an addition to the normal looking GPS watches available in the market.

The bevel of the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch is surrounded by five buttons namely, INDIGLO, mode, display, start/stop and set. The bevel also has a start/split button for easy lap and split timings.

Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS Watch for Running: Usability

Like every watch released by Timex the appeal factor lies in the usability of the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch for running. It is an extremely easy to use revolutionary running watch. The buttons of the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS are big enough to be used easily while wearing the heaviest of gloves in cold weather.

The innovative ergonomic case design of the watch allows easy viewing of the display preventing any need for you to twist your wrist around to view all the information on the display.

The strap of the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch and the heart rate strap are extremely comfortable to wear without constricting your breath or movement.

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch for running, once out of the box, is extremely easy to set up and customize to your liking.

Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS Watch for Running: Features

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch for running was built with the runner in mind.

Modes:

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch comes with different modes.

CHRONO Mode:

A tap on the lower left hand button allows you to access and switch modes. With modes like the CHRONO mode you can customize almost 3 pages of display each having about 3-4 lines of information. The change in modes and their settings can also be easily done with the Timex Device Agent Software.

Interval Mode:

The interval mode allows you to setup an interval workout. Interval workouts can range from simple to complex. The basic interval workout would include warm up, main set and cool down. The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch for running allows you to set five main sets each set having its own parameters. You can then specify the parameters of warm up and cool down separately.

Timer Mode:

The timer mode is essential to every running watch. The timer in the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch can be configured to repeat after the set time or simply switch to the CHRONO mode. You can also configure the watch to remind you to switch between modes half way through your training.

Recovery Mode:

The recovery mode monitors your heart rate and other stats while you are recovering from an activity. It is an important feature for recording heart rate while resting. All you need to do is set the rest time, strap on the heart rate strap and let the watch record your heart rate.

Review Mode:

The review mode of the Timex Run Trainer GPS watch for running allows you to go through past stored training sessions. In this mode you can get the details such as laps and split times for any training session store in the watch. This mode also displays details like cadence, average time across sessions, total time taken for each session, distance, speed, heart rate, etc.

Configuration Mode:

This mode lets you customize the watch according to your convenience. You can configure heart rate training zones, fitness goals pertaining to speed, distance or time, metric units and personal details like age, height and weight. This mode also allows you to change the recording rate interval and smoothen out any jumpiness observed in the GPS tracking.

Hands Free Start/Stop and Splits:

If you are training within city limits that require you to start and stop frequently due to traffic you can automatically pause the recording on the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch. The watch allows you to set lower and upper thresholds for speed. In case you cross the lower threshold the watch pauses till you come back into the set speed zone to start again.

You can also set the lap splits in terms of distance like 1 mile or time like 30 minutes or 1 hour.

GPS:

The GPS sensors of the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch are extremely powerful and hook up to the satellites in a matter of seconds. The GPS tracking is also extremely accurate. We checked against the distance reported on the watch against multiple online map sites.

Backlight:

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch has the classic INDIGLO backlight of Timex. The watch has a dedicated button for the backlight for easy viewing in dark conditions. The only drawback of the backlight feature is that you cannot adjust the time the backlight stays on. This is helpful during the winter when running in the dark as you don’t always get an extended look at your watch. So, it would be nice to have it on a few seconds longer.

Normal Watch:

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch can be used as a normal watch for non-training periods. In the regular watch mode the dial displays the date and time. A variety of different alarms can also be configured which can be set to buzz daily or on specific days.

Software:

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch for running can be connected to your computer and software such as TrainingPeaks, which can be used to schedule or improve your training sessions.

Accessories:

The Timex Run Trainer GPS watch is compatible with the ANT+ heart rate strap and foot pod.

Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS Watch for Running: Summary

The Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch for running is bound to surprise you with the sheer number of features it packs in itself. This watch has everything that a casual or serious runner could ask for. What we like most is the simplicity of the user experience. Timex has definitely done their research with runners when building the Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch for running.

Where to next? Try these links:

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Nike+ Sportswatch GPS Watch for Runners

The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners is the first GPS watch to be released from the stable of the multinational sports giant Nike. The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners is one of the most stylish GPS watches available in the market today. Pairing up with the GPS giant TomTom, Nike has incorporated GPS into its line of sports watches which not only tracks your distance and speed but also helps record your track while training and number of calories burnt in each training session.

The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners unlike most complicated GPS watches is extremely easy to use and with two simple button taps the powerful TomTom GPS sensors hook onto satellites in a matter of seconds. Nike has hence picked up two Innovation Awards for the Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners at the Consumer Electronics Show. Click here to check the current price for Nike Sportswatch GPS.

Nike+ Sportswatch GPS Watch for Runners - Design

The first impression of the Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners gives out the stylish look of the watch. From the way it has been packaged to the way it displays your training stats exudes the characteristic Nike style. Nike has clearly put in a lot of time and effort into designing the watch. The sleek design of the Nike+ Sports Watch GPS allows it to sit comfortably on any wrist and the wrist band provided can be adjusted to fit a wide range of wrist sizes.

The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners is available in black and green. Initially thought to be mismatched colors for a wrist watch, Nike has managed to blend these colors perfectly to suit their first GPS watch. The colors on the Nike+ Sports Watch GPS have also been matched with some of the running apparel ranges of Nike 2011.

Nike+ Sportswatch GPS Watch for Runners - Usability

The two buttons on the bevel of the Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners are enough to get it running and for further use. Unlike most GPS watches available in the market the Nike+ Sports Watch GPS is simple to use as most of the functions are accessed by these two buttons removing the need for a complex sequence of button tapping. The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners can be connected to the computer whenever you need to change a workout or any settings.

The change requires just three clicks on the mouse unlike most GPS watches that require you to fiddle around with the buttons to make even minor changes.

While setting up for the first time you are prompted to download a small program that enables you to make the necessary changes from your computer. The program is small in size and downloads very fast. You don’t have to restart your computer after the download meaning that you are ready to run in a matter of seconds.

Another comfort factor of the Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners is that the wrist band is made of rubber and not plastic which is more comfortable to wear and does not cause any rashes or skin itching.

Nike+ Sportswatch GPS Watch for Runners - Features

Auto Lap:

The Auto Lap is an extremely useful feature of the Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners. It lets you record the individual lap performance throughout your training sessions. The lap can be set at a particular time or distance. The inbuilt TomTom GPS sensor of the Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners identifies when you have covered the set distance and automatically begins the next lap. The summary feature in the Auto Lap shows individual lap performances before showing the current lap performance. The lap can also be set by tapping the watch each time you want a new lap to start.

Calorie Counter:

Calorie counter is an important feature for any runner. Serious athletes need to keep a track of the calories burnt to calculate the amount of food they must consume post-training. The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners calculates the number of calories burnt by using your body weight, distance and pace. The Nike+ Sports Watch GPS allows you to train according to the number of calories you wish to burn per training session.

Tap Function:

Any decent GPS watch must have a bright backlight for easy viewing in dark conditions. Nike has gone a step further and introduced the tap functionality which allows the backlight to be activated with a simple tap on the watch screen. The light is then activated for about 10 seconds for you to comfortably view your running stats.

Heart Rate Monitoring:

The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners can be paired with the Polar heart rate monitor to display your current heart rate while training.

GPS:

The GPS of the Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners is extremely accurate due to the advanced sensors provided by TomTom. The sensors hook up the watch with the satellites in a matter of seconds.

NikeRunning.com:

The NikeRunning.com website allows you to store details of your training sessions long after you have to delete them from your watch. NikeRunning.com provides an interactive portal which allows online storage of your oldest training stats.

The USB cable can be used to plug the watch to your computer and directly upload the details of your training sessions onto the portal. The Nike software has proven to be extremely robust and bug free as the upload takes just few seconds and can be done across any operating software or browser.

You can view the history and details of your training sessions on NikeRunning.com. Your old training sessions are broken down into various mile or kilometer stages and your page is displayed at each stage of the training session.

The past training sessions are also displayed in a calendar format allowing you to easily select any old training session for analysis.

Nike Maps allow you to superimpose your running track on a heat map. The heat map also displays popular running tracks while helping you plot and schedule your next training session.

Battery Life:

The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners promises 10 hours of battery life with full GPS function.

Nike+ Sportswatch GPS Watch for Runners - Summary

The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners is one the most reliable GPS watches available in the market today. It is easy to use making viewing running stats like pace, distance and heart rate almost effortless. The online portal takes your training a step further by letting you share your training details with friends while setting new goals for yourself. The Nike+ Sportswatch GPS watch for runners might be just what you are looking for.

Read more GPS Watch Reviews.

Where to next? Try these links:

  • Read More Reviews | Check Pricing
  • Buy at: Amazon.com | Paragon

Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS Watch for Runners

The Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS watch for runners has forgone the virtual training partner, multi sport modes and other features of its more expensive counterparts like the Garmin Forerunner 410 and 310XT. The Garmin Forerunner 110 has taken a much simpler route to being the basic runner watch. Hence it has the basic displays of a runner watch that shows time, distance, pace and mile splits. Though the Garmin Forerunner 110 has been targeted at the mainstream runner it is not ideal for someone who wants to train seriously. It is a watch for running that a casual runner would prefer.

Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS Watch for Runners - Design

The design of the Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS watch for runners is not bulky or chunky and defines the goal of the watch: overall simplicity. The choice of colors also has intrigued many customers with a hot pink for women and standard black and hot red for men. The simple features and simple look of watch make it look like a normal watch not a feature laden computer on your wrist.

The Garmin Forerunner 110 has a simple interface bezel with no touch screen option unlike its counterpart the Garmin Forerunner 410. The bevel of the Garmin Forerunner 110 is surrounded by four basic buttons of a runner’s watch namely, light, page/menu, lap/reset and start/stop.

Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS Watch for Runners - Usability

The Garmin Forerunner 110 has simplified the complex features of most of its counterparts and has the basic features which many serious athletes will vouch is all you need. Giving up on the overwhelming customizations the Garmin Forerunner 110 is perfect for the casual runner. Plenty of storage, easy interface, easy to read screen and a simple GPS tracking make this watch extremely easy and a pleasure to use. For the casual runner the Garmin Forerunner 110 is the perfect watch to launch into the GPS watch line.

The only downside to the Garmin Forerunner 110 is that though it is waterproof to support underwater use at 30 meters for 30 minutes the screen begins to fog up after barely 20 minutes of underwater use.

Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS Watch for Runners - Features

Running

The Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS watch for runners is undoubtedly designed for running and with just a tap on the page/menu button the GPS is turned on and ready for running. Once you are done with your running a tap on the start/stop buttons stops recording and you can then view the distance travelled, time taken and pace details. If you have a heart rate strap you can also view your current heart rate on the Garmin Forerunner 110.

Auto Lap

This is a great feature characteristic of every Garmin Forerunner. The Auto Lap helps you create automatic splits/lap every time you set the desired distance. Most casual runners do this to set mile markers, the Auto Lap feature of the Garmin Forerunner 110 does this automatically for you. By default the Auto Lap feature is set to split at 1.0 mile, you can customize this and set it to any desired distance. Pressing the lap button will provide information about your total time and average pace rate.

Heart Rate Monitor

The major reason any individual would take up training is to keep the heart fit hence the Garmin Forerunner 110 allows you to use the ANT+ heart rate strap to monitor your heart rate. The current heart rate will show up on one of the data pages which can be further analyzed on Garmin Connect.

Using Indoors

The Garmin Forerunner 110 comes with an indoors mode which allows you to only monitor your heart rate. Even if you are training indoors you can use this feature. This mode does not display the distance, time or pace.

Backlight

The backlight of the Garmin Forerunner 110 is extremely bright and stays on for about 8 seconds. But unlike its counterparts the time the backlight stays on cannot be adjusted on the Garmin Forerunner 110.

History

Holding down the page/menu button of the Garmin Forerunner 110 displays the history. You can then navigate to view different activities and also view the summary of each activity which includes distance, time and pace.

Cycling

Though the Garmin Forerunner 110 was simplified to be a single sport watch, it can used for cycling by switching the display mode to ‘speed’ from ‘pace’. You can then strap it onto your wrist or use a bike mount to record your training. Except for pace the monitor shows speed otherwise there is no difference between the summaries for running and cycling.

Swimming

The downside of the Garmin Forerunner 110 is that it isn’t quite waterproof. The screen of the FX110 fogs up with barely 20 minutes of use underwater. Hence training underwater with the Garmin Forerunner 110 isn’t quite a good idea.

GPS

The GPS feature on the Garmin Forerunner 110 is accurate and has simple route tracking to help the first time user of GPS watches. The GPS chip of the Garmin Forerunner 110 is very fast in comparison to the other Forerunners and takes less than 20 seconds to find the satellites and lock in.

Battery Life

The Garmin Forerunner 110 promises 8 hours of battery life with full GPS usage. It also comes with an auto power saving mode which enables the watch to go back to regular mode after 5 minutes of inactivity.

Software

The Garmin Forerunner 110 comes with Garmin Connect and can be used with Training Peaks as well as Sport Tracks to record and analyze training sessions. These softwares provide feedbacks and help design better training schedules. The Sport Tracks helps you choose a track and then schedule or customize your training on the specified track.

Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS Watch for Runners - Summary

The loss of many features for simplicity does not sit well with the heavy dent caused to the wallet otherwise the Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS watch for runners is a step towards better technology for the casual runner. Not too complicated yet reliable with faster GPS connectivity and easy interface the Garmin Forerunner 110 with the lack of the Virtual Training Partner and Foot Pod sticks to the basics while still doing well. Being slim and pretty it records plenty of data without issues of data loss or drops. It’s probably one of the best running watches for runners looking for an affordable GPS watch.

Read more GPS Watch Reviews.

Help support Running Watch Review. The Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS running watch is available from these online stores:

  • Amazon.com
  • Backwoods
  • Altrec

Garmin Forerunner 410 GPS Running Watch

The Garmin Forerunner 410 is  an upgrade to the previous generations of FR405 and FR405CX, and has added to the number of GPS watches that look ‘normal’. Ideal for someone who needs a training aid when looking to push their training to the next level, the Garmin Forerunner 410 is a trainee’s companion. This might look like an ordinary watch but packs in itself a touchscreen bezel that is easy to use and is also waterproof. Automatic synching with your computer, large amount of data storage capacity, heart rate monitor, lap time, analyzing your performance, this watch has it all that an athlete would need for some serious training.

Garmin Forerunner 410: Design

An advanced GPS device, the Garmin Forerunner 410 was designed to help athletic activity. It is operated through a bevel with a touchscreen and is sized closer to ordinary sports watches available in the market than to previous Forerunners. It has also been designed to look less chunky and bulky than the previous devices produced by Garmin.

The digital display around the bevel has four labels on it, namely menu, Time/Date, GPS and training. Designed to feel like using the trackpad of a laptop, using the touchscreen of the Garmin Forerunner 410 is an absolute delight. The bevel has two side buttons for the timer and lap splits to retain the typical sports watch look but the touch bevel makes it top notch.

Garmin Forerunner 410: Usability

The Garmin Forerunner 410 is a ‘multisport’ watch meaning that it can be used to train across a variety of sports with ease. Also waterproofed the Garmin Forerunner 410 can support your training underwater at 1 meter for almost 30 minutes. Hence training outside in rainy weather is no big deal now. The touch bevel works just the same as it does in sunny conditions. The GPS is an absolute delight on the Garmin Forerunner 410 supporting GPX, KML files and geotagging. It can be easily used to track a variety of activities from hiking, parachuting, kayaking and flights. The Garmin Forerunner 410 also has the option of being powered down to being a normal watch during non-training periods.

The down side is a rather frustrating touch bezel which does not respond very well when operated with gloves and tends to be slower to touch underwater proving that work still needs to be done in the waterproofing area. Though it can connect to ANT+ speed/cadence sensors and foot pods it does not support ANT+ power meters and weight scales.

Garmin Forerunner 410: Features

Virtual Partner

The Virtual partner tempo function is a big favorite amongst users of the Garmin Forerunner 410. It allows you to set a specific pace then ‘race’ against the virtual companion on the watch and check how far/behind you are in terms of distance and time.

 

GPS

The Garmin Forerunner 410 promises eight hours of operation with complete GPS function supporting GPX and KML exporting files that are directly transferrable to your computer.

Touch Bevel

The new touch bevel allows faster browsing of displays and operations; receive time and distance notifications along with heart rate notifications. The color scheming has also since been improved as compared to the previous Forerunners. Though using the touch bevel with gloves on can sometimes be quite frustrating due to slow response it is definitely much better than the previous models and benefit for cold weather conditions.

Data Transfer

The Garmin Forerunner 410 offers wireless data transfer through USB and also offers support across two time zones. It is suitable for use on the Windows operating system and Macintosh. You can create workout on your computer and then download them onto the Garmin Forerunner 410.

The Garmin Forerunner 410 downloads over the ANT+ protocol that requires Garmin ANT Agent to be downloaded into your computer. Softwares like Garmin Connect and Sport Tracks provide in-depth analysis of your workout while others like Training Peaks and Golden Cheetah help you schedule and plan workouts. Specs such as heart-rate, speed, time and distance can be added into the workout plans. The plans can be created in Garmin Training Center which is included in the package and then download them into the watch.

Additional Features

Auto Pause

Fantastic for stoplights while training on city streets, that requires constant start/stops without having to worry about starting or stopping the timer.

Autolap

Another favored feature which automatically calls out lap splits based on predefined distance/position.

Cycling

The Garmin Forerunner 410 can also make a fine bike computer for the occasional cyclist. The Garmin Forerunner 410 though does not come with a bike mounting kit the generic Garmin Forerunner rubber mount works just as fine when strapped onto the handlebar.

The Garmin Forerunner 410 also has the ability to create ‘courses’ that can help you make up a route to train on. Though it does not create or support the concept of street similar to a car GPS it does tell you when you are off-track.

History

The basic history view makes visible the summary data from where you can choose to view individual recorded activities. It also allows laps and average paces per lap view.

Battery

The Forerunner 410 promises eight hours of battery life on GPS mode which does not compare to a conventional watch but is acceptable for the casual trainer who switches often between the GPS and non-GPS mode.

Garmin Forerunner 410: Summary

The Garmin Forerunner 410 is an update of the previous generation Forerunners. The slim design has formed the primary selling point of this watch. Coupled with an improved bezel this watch has become a must have for serious trainers. Unlike the FR110 and FR210 which were aimed at casual runners the FR410 has an expanded feature set suitable for casual runners and serious athletes alike.

The touch bezel has improved much since the FR405 and hence a capacitive touch will be a welcome addition. The Garmin Forerunner 410 is otherwise impressively designed and comes with cutting edge technology capable of pleasing athletes of various sports and levels. Though it does not sit as lightly on the wallet as it does on the wrist the Garmin Forerunner 410, flagship of Garmin is definitely one of the best GPS watches available in the market.

Read more GPS Watch Reviews.

Help support Running Watch Review. The Garmin Forerunner 410 GPS running watch is available from these online stores:

  • Amazon.com
  • Paragon Sports
  • Altrec

Garmin FR60 GPS Running Watch

The Garmin FR60 running watch is an advanced GPS running watch that has been created keeping the needs of runners and triathletes in mind.  It has everything one may look for in a GPS runner’s watch: all the advanced features that are required by today’s athletes to train. This watch follows from the Garmin Forerunner line and has some of the best features offered, as well as other innovative features. The high price tag and the extra baggage are thankfully missing. Confused as to whether or not to buy the Garmin FR60? Read our GPS watch review before you decide.

Garmin FR60: Design

The Garmin FR60 running watch is light and small and you will have no trouble with it when you go swimming or running. It looks sleek enough to be worn as a daily wear watch as well. It has a good audible alarm clock that is perfect for those times when you are afraid of missing an early morning training session. The Garmin FR60 watch is available in black, lilac and red. Accessories you can buy with this watch are bike sensor, heart rate monitor and foot pod. The compact look of the watch and the way all the features fit inside one tiny package makes us give thumbs’ up to Garmin once again!

Garmin FR60: Usability

The Garmin FR60 is a running sports watch that is perfect for both athletes and the casual wearer. Its compact design and light weight makes the wearer feel quite comfortable when it is strapped to the arm. It has advanced sports features that athletes and trail runners can use in it and the great thing is that it is extremely user friendly. Setting up the watch is easy and so is programming it in a way to suit you! Also, learning to use all the features is really not difficult at all.

Garmin FR60: Features      

The Garmin FR60 is totally water resistant. This means that you don’t have to worry if you sweat a lot during your training sessions. You can even take it out on a swim without being worried about whether it is going to work later on! It is triathlon- friendly. This watch is a training aid and can keep track of the current pace, speed, hear rate, average pace, distance and time and also lets you train within your specific Heart Rate Zones. Of course, the GPS records every mile that you can download to your computer. When the watch is turned on for the first time, it will record your age, height and weight. It can also be used to set up alerts for training. The Virtual Trainer Mode is another feature worth mentioning. When you connect the Garmin FR60 to a foot pod, you get a continuous stream of live data like your speed, pace and distance. It can also be connected to a heart rate monitor or bike sensor if you want more data. Minus points? None we could find!

Garmin FR60: Summary

The Garmin FR60 is a must buy for athletes looking for a complete solution to their training needs; plus a watch!

Help support Running Watch Review. The Garmin FR60 GPS running watch is available from these online stores:

  • Amazon.com: Men’s FR60 | Women’s FR60
  • Paragon Sports: Men’s FR60 | Women’s FR60
  • Altrec: Men’s FR60 | Women’s FR60
  • Backwoods