A runner's GPS watch can enhance your daily workout.
If you are serious about running and fitness, a GPS-enabled
runner’s watch can be an invaluable tool for maximizing your
performance. In addition to tracking your speed and mapping out your
runs, these devices can provide a host of other tools to enhance your
training, keep you safe and provide vital information about your
workout.
Connectivity and Tracking
One of the primary uses of any runner’s GPS watch is to track your
runs. Many models simply track your progress via GPS a few times per
minute, storing that data until you return home. Then you can connect a
USB cable and download the information about your run, plotting your
route on a map. Some GPS watches offer wireless uploads. You can store
your data and analyze it over time, upload it to community websites to
compare performance with other runners, or even submit it to personal
trainers for a professional evaluation of your regimen. Some models even
provide the ability to upload running routes to your GPS, allowing the
device to guide you through an unfamiliar course and keep you on track.
Monitors
Look for a watch that includes an integral heart monitor. This allows
the device to keep track of your pulse rate, alerting you if you start
to overexert yourself and helping you plan rest periods. In some cases,
this involves a sensor pad that you must touch to provide the reading,
forcing you to slow down or stop for accurate measurement. High-end
heart monitors can communicate wirelessly with a chest harness, allowing
you to track your heart rate throughout the course of your run. Some
runner's watches even allow you to program regular notices for
hydration, so you can keep yourself in top shape even under hot
conditions.
Battery Life
An important factor to consider with any runner’s GPS is battery life.
Unlike normal watches, which can go a very long time on a single
battery, GPS devices require more power to detect GPS satellite signals
and extrapolate that data for position information. Choosing a device
with a more robust battery can give you the freedom to take longer runs
and explore new routes.
Form Factor
While features are certainly important in any runner’s GPS watch, form
factor and weight are other important considerations. The more features
a device has, the bigger it will be, and even a difference of a few
ounces can prove to be an annoyance over a long-distance run. Choose
your GPS watch with an eye toward comfort as well as the features it
offers.
Accuracy
While a GPS running watch can give you a good idea of your running
courses and times, the technology may not be as accurate as you would
like. Typically, a GPS receiver can pinpoint its location to within a
few meters, but buildings, mountains, and other land features can
confuse the signal somewhat. This inaccuracy can introduce some variance
into your lap times. If you want to improve your record keeping you can
use a foot pod as a backup. Foot pods connect to one of your running
shoes to measure your stride and speed, and can give you an alternate
measurement of your lap times for maximum accuracy. However, they do
need to be calibrated before use.
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