Forerunner Review

Garmin Forerunner 305 Wrist-Mounted GPS Fitness Computer (Bilingual)

2009-07-26T19:03:00.001-07:00

I have enjoyed using this product so far. I have not used the heart rate monitor attachment yet. I have found the Garmin to be very easy to use and it seems to be amazingly accurate. The instructions were very easy to follow and implement. I look forward to exploring more of the features as I become more familiar with the Garmin.
The ordering process was very simple and efficient.

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Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor

2009-07-25T17:35:00.001-07:00

I bought the Edge 305 as I wanted to be able to co-ordinate information about my rides in a more deliberate fashion. I really like the idea of tracking my rides with GPS, getting an accurate reading on elevation and grade both after the ride and real time through the barometric altimeter while being able to capture HR and speed/cadence information. Sounds like all the information you'd need in a single device.

By and large this is pretty much what you get. I've already benefited from understanding how HR changes as a function of elevation, grade and speed on some local climbs. I also like the way that you can customize two screens of real time data as you ride - I like to see HR, cadence, speed, %grade, ride time and also lap time and distance on my "home" screen. I put time of day, total miles, average speed, total elevation and calories on the second screen. All easy to do and works as advertised.
Interface with Motion Based and Garmin Training Center seem pretty easy and they both provide useful graphical ways to interrogate your data post-ride.

Now for the con's. For me the big one is speed readout. Despite having a wheel mounted magnet and speed sensor, it turns out that the Edge actually acquires speed data from GPS as first default. What's so bad about that? Well, I've found when I ride on tree covered roads, my speed will appear to fluctuate quite substantially (+/- 1 to 2mph) despite a constant effort. After coming from a wired cycling computer previously I felt this a step backwards. It turns out that you can disable GPS speed, but only by switching off GPS entirely - not quite what I had in mind. The second small wrinkle is that I have had some quite stupendous grade readouts, mostly in similar conditions. Climbing up Old La Honda and Tunitas Creek Rd on the SF peninsula, I apparently was climbing grades of >20% a few times, clearly a GPS error.

Despite these niggles, I'm happy with the unit and intend to stick with it. I'm getting valuable training information, which is why I bought it in the first place. If I decide I need more accurate speed readings real time, I might yet get a cheap wireless computer to mount next to the Edge. Garmin Edge 305 Bicycle GPS Navigator with Heart Rate Monitor and Speed/Cadence Sensor (Factory Refurbished)

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Garmin Forerunner 101 Bilingual GPS

2009-07-24T18:56:00.001-07:00

The economical Foretrex 101 is the wrist-mount GPS that frees up your hands so you can focus on your outdoor activities. This product joins the Foretrex 201 in Garmins growing line of wearable, wrist navigation devices. The Foretrex 101 has all the features and functionality of the Foretrex 201, including PC interface capabilities for downloading waypoints, tracks and routes, but operates on two AAA batteries.Its easy-to-use interface and basic GPS capabilities are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who would rather replace the batteries than recharge the unit in the field. This unit features Garmins intuitive operating logic, utilizing six dedicated buttons to simplify navigation. Whether its a campsite, deer stand, or other place of interest, users can mark its location, identify the waypoint, and navigate to it later using the GoTo function. Also, with the help of Garmins exclusive TracBack technology, users can retrace their steps by following an electronic breadcrumb trail back to their original starting point.Because the unit is waterproof, the Foretrex 101 is a natural companion on watersport adventures like kayaking, canoeing, boating and sailing. In fact, this device incorporates another feature found on the Foretrex 201 a sailboat-racing timer. Competitors can configure the countdown sequence prior to the start of the race and utilize their GPS location to be in the best possible tacking position when the race begins.

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Garmin A/C Charger for Forerunner 201 (010-10483-00)

2009-07-23T19:00:00.001-07:00

A charger either works or it doesn't, so there is really nothing to say about how well it works. But, I will say that after first receiving a message that I would be waiting almost a month to receive my charger, I was pleased to get an email just a week later saying that it had been shipped.

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Garmin forerunner Charging Clip

2009-07-22T18:11:00.001-07:00

This came with my Garmin Forerunner 405cx, but I bought a spare to keep in my travel bag.

This easily clips onto the 405 CX, and is powered via USB on your computer (the 405cx also comes with an AC adaptor for this clip). I just leave my 405cx clipped to this when I am not running so that I know that my 405cx is fully charged when I go running. If you have an iPod AC travel charger, you can use that to power this unit instead of your computer.

Important: Make sure that the contact points on the Forerunner are dry before attaching this unit or you may damage the Forerunner.

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Garmin GPS Carrying Case, Black

2009-07-21T19:04:00.001-07:00

This case is well designed for carrying my Garmin Forerunner 305 and heart rate monitor. Plus there is room for my ipod, armband, and miscellaneous other items.

The case is a semi rigid "clamshell that offers much more protection than a simple nylon carrying case. It opens in half, and each half has a mesh to hold items in place. There are ventilation holes in the top and both sides, so you don't have to worry about a "gym locker" smell building up. There is a single zipper that easily closes the case.

Unlike other reviews, I don't find the space to be cramped. I put my Forerunner in one half, and the heart rate monitor in the other half, and still have room in each half for other items. Because of the mesh holding the Forerunner in place, there is absolutely no worry about scratching the face of the Forerunner.

Although the heart rate monitor does have to be folded a bit, this does it no harm.

The case does not have a carry handle or strap except for a small finger strap at one end, but odds are you will be carrying this in a gym bag or some other bag, so a finger strap is all that you really need.

I like that this case is reasonably compact, yet roomy enough to hold other items that I use together with my Forerunner. I have tried other kinds of cases, and like the protection and design of this case the best.

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Garmin A/C Charger for ForeRunner 301 and Edge Series (010-10635-00)

2009-07-20T17:19:00.001-07:00

All that is included in this item is the plug itself, and not the usb that is also pictured in the description. I felt this was a little misleading, since the verbal description just gives the dimensions. I feel that the picture should be just the plug if that is all that is going to be included.

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Charger, Ac, forerunner 201, Include

2009-07-19T18:18:00.001-07:00

I had the original charger's transformer burn out on me when trying to use it overseas with a faulty voltage adapter. Thankfully, the remaining charge on my Forerunner lasted through that trip and through 99% of a 60+ mile bike ride after I returned home but before the new adapter arrived.

When I received the new adapter, I figured I would just use the new transformer with the old adapter, but that didn't work. Next, I tried to use the new transformer and new adapter with the old serial cable, just so I didn't have to unplug the old cable from the computer. That also did not work and I ended up having to use all of the new components. No big deal, but kind of strange. If this had worked I would have given 5 stars.

The best part about the new charger -- other than the fact that it works, of course, is that unlike the original charger, it has a dual voltage transformer. Thus, I will not again have the original voltage problem.

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GARMIN 010-10997-00 Heart Rate Monitor

2009-07-18T18:31:00.001-07:00

I bought this HRM transmitter to go with my Garmin Oregon 400t receiver, which has basic heart rate monitoring built in. The problem is that the range of the 400t is very limited. If the receiver is in my pants pocket or hanging on my belt, it loses the signal from the transmitter. I have to either carry the receiver in my hand (not always practical) or hang it around my neck with a lanyard (not very comfortable). I thought I would use this often, but I've ended up using it very rarely because it's so inconvenient.

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GARMIN 010-10446-00 Handlebar Mounting Bracket

2009-07-17T19:09:00.001-07:00

I have had one of these since February having previously used the Oregon Scientific Heart Rate Logger with Download (until it fell in the kitchen garbage disposal).

The question I could not answer easily when searching was: does this work in the Gym, the answer is: Yes (and no) - there is a setting which switches off the GPS and just records your heart rate, and it works well if your working reasonably hard (elliptical, treadmill etc), although for light workouts (me on my Wii) the heart rate monitor struggles at best.

I have used it whilst Skiing (theres a nice website that uploads your garmin data and even tells you which runs you were on etc), and airsofting.

GPS performance works well except in wooded areas, although useful for navigating the woods, if you need accurate recorded data it will let you down, also as all GPS devices if your out running and you make an accute turn (e.g. 180 degrees) the recorded distance will fall off (the unit records points approximately 4-6 seconds apart. Taking wide loops alleviates this issue though.

Battery life does how it says 14 hours on a full charge is no problem, however after I have downloaded into my laptop, I have picked up the unit for the next run and found the battery dead, so now once I disconnect from the PC I cycle the power to make sure it is switched off.

The Garmin proprietary software works well, seamlessly syncs and displays lots of useful data. Online motionbased software (provides huge amounts of data on your runs, walks etc) works well and with the downloadable Garmin Connect software pulls data off the device as easy as the software on your machine. As I have said before with skiing there are other more specialised websites that either use .GPX tracks or use the Garmin Connect software to easily upload your data.

Any waypoint editors, etc which work with the other Garmin walking/exercise units will read and write data to this device with few issues if any.

Summary:

This is the lowest priced forerunner with a heart rate monitor.

If you dont have a big budget and want a GPS recorder/heart rate monitor get this one.
If you can afford more get the Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor, apparently this has a better GPS receiver.

This unit has provided me with loads of motivation to get my backside off the couch and get out there and run/walk.

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Garmin forerunner Bike Mount

2009-07-16T18:26:00.001-07:00

I am using this with my 405 and it works pretty well. I only have two complaints. First it was a bit awkward to get it on so that the large end of the zip tie was in side end, where it is cut out. I wanted to do this though so that the sharp end where the tie was cut off didn't cut into the watch band. Second, the little part that sticks out and says garmin. It doesn't seem to really serve any purpose (I am not sure that it would really help hold the watch on) except making it harder it get on and off. I have it on my aero bars.

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Garmin 010-10889-01 Forerunner 305/205 Quick Release Bike Mount Replacement

2009-07-15T17:07:00.001-07:00

I finished the slickrock trail in Moab, Utah this past weekend and wanted to measure my progress with my Forerunner 205. I was a little apprehensive about taking my GPS because of the roughness of the trail and the possibility of my Garmin popping out and either breaking or getting lost. 3 hours later the GPS is still there and the Quick Release did its job even through a rather rough crash. And even though my elbow has a nasty scrape from the sandstone, the Garmin looks as good as ever. I would definitely recommend this Quick Release to anyone wanting to attach their Forerunner 205/305 to their bikes.

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Garmin 010-00658-30 Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor (Blue)

2009-07-14T19:10:00.001-07:00

I am not a professional runner but I'd like to practice all type of sports and I was looking for a watch to help me to improve my training sessions.
I found out for a while in the market and finally decided for this and the forerunner 405CX fully set my expectations.
You can program difference type of session and set weekly programs, I'd never loose the GPS signal and it is really accurate in distance as well as heart rate.
I bought the foot pod and now I have excellent tools for in and outdoor.
Garmin online need to improve a little more the web software to get a five stars watch.

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GARMIN 010-00375-00 Forerunner 301 GPS Receiver Personal Training Device

2009-07-13T19:00:00.001-07:00

Garmin Forerunner 310XT 010-00741-01 GPS Trainer with Heart Rate Monitor

2009-07-12T18:33:00.001-07:00

Finally, a GPS-enabled training device that isn't afraid of the water. The rugged Forerunner 310XT is the triathlete's indispensable training tool ¿ a GPS-enabled, swim-proof trainer that tracks bike and run data and sends it wirelessly to your computer. This multi-sport device has up to 20 hours of battery life, tracks distance, pace and heart rate, and goes from wrist to bike in seconds.

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GARMIN 010-10644-00 Speed/Cadence Sensor

2009-07-11T18:50:00.001-07:00

I own the Garmin edge 305 with cadence sensor and HR monitor, since I bought a new bike I decided to acquire a second speed/cadence sensor. Very easy to install and very accurate. If you have more than one bike, it is very practical to acquire only the speed/cadence sensor you need instead of buying the complete item (you also will need a mount for the edge for each additional bike you have).

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Garmin Forerunner 201 Wrist-Mounted GPS Fitness Computer

2009-07-10T18:25:00.001-07:00

The 205 is $30 more than the 201, but is ten times the watch. If you can afford to the extra dough, here is why it's worth it.

I bought the 201 when it first came out (~7 years ago) It was head and shoulders above the Timex product with the remote arm pod and I would have rated it 5 stars back then because it was the best of it's kind. I even used it to go geocaching.

The problem is, I have to strongly recommend against anyone buying it today - I was "lucky" to have lost this kayaking a couple of years ago at which point I upgraded to the 305. It is SOOOOO much better that I have to now rate the 201 as one star in comparison. The 205 is the same but without heart rate.

First, the 101/201 have a very unusual shape. The 205/305 is a bulky watch but the looong 201 prevented you from wearing gloves - a real problem when skiing, cycling, etc.

Second - and more importantly, the 205/305 have the SIRF Star III Chipset which means it can lock on and hold the lock better.

Imagine if you will - you're all ready to run and pumped up - whoops, you now have to wait an extra few minutes to lock your position, otherwise it cannot tell you your speed, location, etc.

My old 201 locked on far faster than my running partner's Timex (He had to hang it on a tree while he was getting ready since it often took 5 minutes or more to lock.) the 305 can lock in 5-10 seconds most days while the 201 would lock in ~2 minutes *most* of the time but occasionally would take up to 5 minutes. If you were ~100 miles away from your prior location, the 201 would take up to 10 minutes to get a new lock. ARRRGGGGHH.

Also the 201 would lose lock all the time when running in even moderate tree cover or heavy clouds. With the 305 I can even get a lock in my house most of the time.

Finally, the 101/201 cannot lock IF YOU ARE MOVING! The 305 can lock even if you're riding a bicycle. I think I've even gotten a lock while driving.

Yes the 205 and 305 cost more but with the huge difference in functionality I find it astonishing that Garmin would continue to sell the 201 given how much better the 205 and 305 are.

p.s. Don't bother with the 405. Interesting concept but not practical. Read the reviews.

I use mine for cycling and running, the direct link to see your workouts mapped on GOOGLE EARTH is FANTASTIC!!!! (the included software is far more stable than the junk Polar included with their HRM's.

Heart rate strap with replaceable battery is coded and comfortable. It's better in my opinion than the Polar products (of which I've owned three)

I'd avoid the 405 unless you really want to use this watch as a normal day to day wristwatch (check out the 405 reviews)

My only complaint is that it's easy to leave it on and run the battery down - which is a bummer if you're just about to work out. I wish there was an "auto off" feature which would shut it down if it detects no movement or heart rate within an hour or so. Fortunately, with Li-Ion batteries, as little as a 10 minute charge gives you enough juice for a 90 minute run.

If you've found this review to be helpful, please let me know!

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Garmin 010-10998-00 Foot Pod for Forerunner 305, 310XT, 405, 405CX, 50 and FR60

2009-07-09T18:46:00.001-07:00

I recently replaced my Forerunner 305 with the 405cx and decided to replace the original version of the footpod (which I have reviewed on Amazon) with this newer model. I am happy with my decision.

Unlike the original version, this model is smaller, lighter (because it uses a "button" battery rather than an AA battery), and much easier to attach and remove from your sneakers.

However, as a practical matter, I leave it on my sneakers even when I run outdoors because I am not confident that the plastic clips that have to be detached to remove this unit will hold up (i.e. not break) under frequent usage, and if they do, then there is no way to attach the footpod to the laceclip that attaches to your sneakers. But this unit is so small and light compared to the original version (which I also ran with outdoors because it was such a pain to remove it since that required almost completely unlacing my sneakers), that I do not notice it.

The only downside to not removing it when running outside is that unlike the older version, which had an on/off switch, the new footpod is motion-activated, so its battery gets used whenever it is in motion. You can tell when it is activated because a red light will initially flash 3 times. When you initially pair it with your Forerunner, just shake it vigorously a couple of times.

This unit works perfectly with both my 405 cx and 50. With the 405cx I used the GPS calibration method, and with the 50 (which has no GPS) I used manual calibration by running a marked distance on a trail in a local park. Before calibration, I was getting inaccurate readings.

There is no battery indicator, so I keep an extra "button" battery (CR 2032) in my gym bag. The battery has already "died" on me once while I was running on the treadmill.

If you keep this unit on your sneakers when you run outside with a Forerunner that has a GPS, Garmin tech support has told me that if both the GPS and the footpod are activated, the GPS signal will override the footpod, though the battery in the footpod will still be used (however, I still disable the footpod when running outside; on the 405cx that is easily done by going into Accessories).

If you are considering purchasing this unit to use with the Forerunner 50 (which I have reviewed on Amazon), then buy it as part of a package. The unit alone costs about the same as such a package for the Forerunner 50.

Once calibrated, this unit works effortlessly and accurately with my Forerunner 405cx to track my distances and pace when I run on the treadmill. There really is no other way to upload this data onto a computer unless you use the footpod when running indoors on a treadmill. (Note for Mac users: I use a software program called Ascent, which is far superior to Garmin Connect and Garmin Training Center).

I am happy with this unit and recommend it. Once you put it onto your sneakers, pair it with your Forerunner, and calibrate it, there is nothing else to do except let it track your data for you.

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Garmin 010-10889-00 Forerunner 305/205 Quick Release Kit

2009-07-08T19:21:00.001-07:00

I bought the kit, but the watch doesn't stay that well connected to the bike mount or the wrist mount. It uses tension on the watch strap pins to hold the watch to the mount. It's a nice idea, but when mounted on my mountain bike, it popped off with even just a little jarring. You don't want to have to stop and then search the woods for your Forerunner. It's not that easy to find. I took it skiing also with the velcro wrist band and the unit came off the watch mount when I was just tapping my poles on the snow. I'm glad it didn't come off on a run because going back uphill and looking for it would have been awful.

Now I use a Polar watch mount on my bike and leave the Garmin on its original watch strap. It's easy to get on and off, and doesn't come off unless I undo the strap. It feels so much more secure. I've had it come off the mount once in a mountain bike crash but it was still looped around the handlebars so it didn't get anywhere. The Polar mount is less expensive also.

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Garmin 010-00658-10 Forerunner 405 with ANT+ Sport Wireless Technology (Black)

2009-07-07T19:22:00.001-07:00

I was originally hesitant to purchase the Garmin Forerunner 405 because of several negative reviews related to the bezel, GPS accuracy and sync issues with a Mac. In the end, my Timex was just not cutting it and I needed an upgrade. After 50 miles, I can say the Forerunner 405 just keeps getting better.

My goals: I'm not a running junkie, but it is my primary method of exercising. I've run 1 marathon and want to run several more in the near future, but I'd like to do much better in my overall times. My specific goal for training is all about improving my average pace over longer distances (I would like to consistently run future marathons under 4 hrs).

My needs: Accurate tracking for distance, total time, current pace, average pace.

My wants: GPS functionality for improved accuracy, logging of actual run, ability to upload data for review and a visual display on the watch that allowed me to track multiple metrics at the same time (time / pace / distance etc).

My concerns: Almost every negative review (1 or 2 star) highlights 3 basic issues:
1) Problems with the bezel
2) Accuracy of GPS
3) Computer Sync (PC or Mac)

Let me address my personal experiences with the above:

1) Bezel: The most common complaint that I noted was people having issues with the bezel during a run. Specifically after they began to perspire, the user was unable to manipulate the bezel. Has this ever happened to me - absolutely - so why is it not an issue... I don't run naked. I simply wipe my finger off on my shirt or shorts and voila, it works! In addition, I don't play with my watch much during my run - I have the training screen set up with 3 panels - current pace in the large panel and distance and time in the 2 smaller panels and that's enough for me. I will occasionally tap the bezel to view my current heart rate, or view the virtual partner, but for the most part, I don't see the need to play with the functions.

2) Accuracy of GPS: I've run under long bridges in Austin, TX, under thick tree canopies in the Florida, and in deep gorges in Colorado Mountains - based on my previous mapping and running with other people with GPS devices, my Garmin has very little variance from what I know to be the correct distance. In addition, I have run on my treadmill at home using the Garmin Foot pod and the treadmill distance and Garmin distance is virtually identical. I have NEVER had a personal experience where the distance was noticeably off.

3) Computer Sync: I have both a Mac and PC at home - the Garmin ANT Agent (sync software) is loaded on both. I have not experienced significant issues syncing to my Mac, but I have experienced annoying things where I am unable to upload a run TO my watch from the Mac. Overall - it's very simple... it works better with a PC - no doubt. It DOES work with a Mac and people that say otherwise should consider the possibility of user error.

The Garmin is not perfect - I am have experienced issues with having a low battery before a run, but now I know to charge my watch frequently (every 3 days) to prevent issues. It recently took several minutes to locate the satellites in clear weather, but that has not been a common occurrence - now I turn my GPS on as I'm getting ready and it will usually pick up satellites before I walk out the door.

The Garmin Connect site is great ([...]) - I upload my runs, review my metrics and monitor my progress. I also look for new runs in familiar locations or locate popular running trials when I'm on the road. You can even upload a course someone else has run to your watch and use the navigation to keep you on the trail.

This watch has helped me significantly increase my pace, track my progress and frankly - I like using it so much, I run more just so I can log another activity. I suspect that people that have serious issues with their Forerunner 405's may have some issues with user error.

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GARMIN 010-00329-05 Forerunner 101 Wrist-Mounted GPS Fitness Computer

2009-07-06T17:43:00.001-07:00

The 205 / 305 are about $50-$70 more than this but if you can afford to swing it, here is why you should buy those instead...

The 101 is identical except that is uses 2 AAA's instead of having an internal rechargeable battery.

I bought the 201 when it first came out (~7 years ago) It was head and shoulders above the Timex product with the remote arm pod and I would have rated it 5 stars back then because it was the best of it's kind. I even used it to go geocaching.

The problem is, I have to strongly recommend against anyone buying it today - I was "lucky" to have lost this kayaking a couple of years ago at which point I upgraded to the 305. It is SOOOOO much better that I have to now rate the 201 as one star in comparison. The 205 is the same but without heart rate.

First, the 101/201 have a very unusual shape. The 205/305 is a bulky watch but the looong 201 prevented you from wearing gloves - a real problem when skiing, cycling, etc.

Second - and more importantly, the 205/305 have the SIRF Star III Chipset which means it can lock on and hold the lock better.

Imagine if you will - you're all ready to run and pumped up - whoops, you now have to wait an extra few minutes to lock your position, otherwise it cannot tell you your speed, location, etc.

My old 201 locked on far faster than my running partner's Timex (He had to hang it on a tree while he was getting ready since it often took 5 minutes or more to lock.) the 305 can lock in 5-10 seconds most days while the 201 would lock in ~2 minutes *most* of the time but occasionally would take up to 5 minutes. If you were ~100 miles away from your prior location, the 201 would take up to 10 minutes to get a new lock. ARRRGGGGHH.

Also the 201 would lose lock all the time when running in even moderate tree cover or heavy clouds. With the 305 I can even get a lock in my house most of the time.

Finally, the 101/201 cannot lock IF YOU ARE MOVING! The 305 can lock even if you're riding a bicycle. I think I've even gotten a lock while driving.

Yes the 205 and 305 cost more but with the huge difference in functionality I find it astonishing that Garmin would continue to sell the 201 given how much better the 205 and 305 are.

p.s. Don't bother with the 405. Interesting concept but not practical. Read the reviews.

I use mine for cycling and running, the direct link to see your workouts mapped on GOOGLE EARTH is FANTASTIC!!!! (the included software is far more stable than the junk Polar included with their HRM's.

Heart rate strap with replaceable battery is coded and comfortable. It's better in my opinion than the Polar products (of which I've owned three)

I'd avoid the 405 unless you really want to use this watch as a normal day to day wristwatch (check out the 405 reviews)

My only complaint is that it's easy to leave it on and run the battery down - which is a bummer if you're just about to work out. I wish there was an "auto off" feature which would shut it down if it detects no movement or heart rate within an hour or so. Fortunately, with Li-Ion batteries, as little as a 10 minute charge gives you enough juice for a 90 minute run.

If you've found this review to be helpful, please let me know!

Buy it here now!

Garmin 010-00679-25 Forerunner 50 with Heart Rate Monitor and Foot Pod

2009-07-05T17:26:00.001-07:00

At the ripe old age of 61 I decided to do my first triathlon. I needed to improve my running skills and needed data to let me know how I was doing. The forerunner 50 was easily programed to link to the chest strap I use with my 305 Garmin on my bicycle. I have found it to be very helpful in my training especially when downloading results to the Garmin Training Center. It is easy to see progress and to compare the training to where I was a week or a month ago. This does not have GPS, but seems to be relatively accurate with distances and very accurate with heart rate. It is not something to wear swimming (although Garmin now has a watch that can be used from start to finish on a triathlon) or hiking as the GPS would be a better way to go. I recommend it.

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Garmin Forerunner 310XT 010-00741-00 GPS Enabled Trainer

2009-07-04T18:35:00.001-07:00

Finally, a GPS-enabled training device that isn't afraid of the water. The rugged Forerunner 310XT is the triathlete's indispensable training tool a GPS-enabled, swim-proof trainer that tracks bike and run data and sends it wirelessly to your computer.

Buy it here now!

Garmin 010-00658-20 Forerunner 405 GPS-Enabled Sports Watch with Heart Rate Monitor (Black)

2009-07-03T17:08:00.001-07:00

I have used the 205 for two years and have enjoyed all the functions but it lacked the HR function. I was fortunate to have a 405 provided to me due to my current job so while the bezel is absolutely frustrating I do not mind since I did not pay $399.
If I am running, I set up my screen to show HR, Avg Pace, and distance. I push start, take off running and then push stop at the end. The watch is absolutely perfect when used in this manner.
For the people complaining about the pace jumping around, remember it is a watch receiving GPS input so it will not update as quickly as a vehicle gps. I stopped using that function and set up Avg Pace per distance (1 mile), this works much better and does not jump around.
I workout based off HR so I have no need or desire to cycle through screens while running or cycling.
Bottom line, it is a great tool if you are a start/stop runner/cyclist but if you want to move through screens while exercising it is not the watch for you due to bezel issues with sweat.

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GARMIN 010-00466-00 Forerunner 205 GPS Receiver

2009-07-02T18:59:00.001-07:00

Trash
I am a better runner using my low tech Timex runner's watch, distance markings on my running paths, my aged grey matter and Google's gmaps-pedometer application to improve my running times.

This unit failed after just six months and I could not be bothered to send it away for repair.

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Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor

2009-07-02T05:16:00.001-07:00

I've been using the Garmin Forerunner 305 for several months now and love it. It has been ideal for keeping me from overexerting via the heart rate alert, and I love the features that allow me to see my averages (pace or speed) whether running or biking. I've found that this device is pretty darn accurate on mileage, more so than I expected. I also like that it tells me how many calories I've burned. Good to know. The fact that I can recharge the wristband and not have to worry about sending it in for battery replacement was a deal maker for me. The chest strap battery is also owner-replaceable, just buy a new one. All in all, it's been a great little tool for helping me keep track of my progress as I work to get more fit.

Buy it here now!