GPS Running Watch | Complete Runner

Activity Bands, GPS Watches, and Super Watches: Which One is Right for You?

April 30, 2015 By Complete Runner

Garmin Vivoactive Flint MI

Not too long ago one of the only options runners had for watches was a $20 Timex that tracked your time along with a few laps, and if you were lucky it was the Indiglo model that featured a light to see the time in the dark.

The rise of the internet and technology has now put the power of a computer on our wrists with the recent launch of the Apple Watch, but has also given runners many more choices than ever. On the other end of the spectrum are activity bands, and somewhere in the middle of super watches and activity bands are GPS watches. More choices are good but also can make it more confusing to know what watch is best for you. So, which one is right for you?

Activity Bands

If you are only looking to track your general daily activity such as steps and sleeping patterns an activity band may be all you need. These are the least expensive and simplest form of tracking devices that will give you basic information about your fitness levels, and typically connect to the computer.

GPS Running Watches

Coming a long way from the original Timex, current GPS running watches are very sophisticated tracking just about anything you need, and also sending the information to your computer and possibly your phone via an app. These devices are now sometimes referred to a personal running coach as some functionality even goes as far as encouraging you to reach the goals you set.

Super Watches

If you want it all, super watches typically combine the best of activity bands and GPS watches, as well as pair to your phone for added connectivity. The Apple Watch and Garmin Vivoactive are such watches that aren’t only good for runners but for other general fitness activities as well.

Still not sure what device is best for you? Don’t worry, we can help. Come into Complete Runner and let us know what you want to accomplish and we will help to point you in the right direction.

Does Your Ancient GPS Running Watch Need Upgrading?

November 23, 2013 By Complete Runner

garmin 620 gps running watch

Big box electronic stores allow us to trade in our old tablet or computer for a newer one. Car dealers want us to trade in our old clunker towards a new or used vehicle. Phone companies have come out with new programs allowing us to get a new phone every year.

Many of us desire the newest technology that comes out. The new iPhone 5s is faster, lighter and more functional than the previous version, and I don’t see many people walking around with their original iPhone because the new one is so advanced.

Now, we’ve got a question for you.

Are you still using your old GPS running watch from several years ago? If so, it may be worthwhile to consider upgrading to a new GPS running watch, and now is the time to do it.

Compared to your old GPS, the new models do some amazing things that will not only help you train better but also give you more convenience.

Garmin, Nike, Timex, and Suunto make some good GPS running watches, and some of the cool things the newest models include:

Vibrating pace and hydration alerts
Interval timers
Easy sync with computer (some are even blue tooth)
Virtual pacer
USB rechargeable
Automatic run reminders for motivation
Customizable displays
Estimate recovery time
VO2 measure
Race time predictor based on your current fitness level

The new GPS running watches are truly amazing and can be a great asset to your training and overall running experience.

With Christmas coming watches are a top purchase, so consider a new GPS watch for you or a runner on your list. Let us help you find the right GPS watch for your running needs.

P.S. Timex is currently offering a $50 Rebate on the Ironman 2.0 GPS.

6 Reasons to Ask Santa for a GPS Running Watch

November 30, 2012 By Complete Runner

GPS running watches are no longer just for running geeks (you know who you are). Great strides in technology have been made to make GPS watches more user friendly, and prices have dropped to make them more appealing to all budgets.

Here are a few reasons why you should ask the man in red for a GPS watch this year:

Training Flexibility

No longer are you stuck to your familiar routes that you measured with your vehicle’s odometer a few years ago. With a GPS watch you can venture off into new areas to change up the scenery and discover different parts of your town, all while tracking your mileage and other essential stats without retracing your run later in the car.

Safety in Training

Many people know they should increase running mileage slowly to keep from getting injured. A GPS watch will keep track of all your mileage and you will be able to rely on the stats to make smart decisions about your training.

Less Hassle

GPS watches make it easy and convenient to track your workouts. The alternative is carrying around your iPhone with the GPS app, praying you don’t drop it or it doesn’t get wet in the elements. Some people still run or walk with a running watch or timer and a pedometer, but why not make it easy on yourself with a GPS watch so you can concentrate on your workout, and not the technology (or lack of).

Know the Mileage of your Shoes

Depending on a variety of factors, a pair of shoes may need to be replaced around 300 to 400 miles. When we ask people how many miles are on their shoes most of the time they aren’t sure, but with a GPS watch you would easily know this number at any given time.

Track Progress

A GPS running watch will not lie to you. It will honestly show your improvement or decline as a log of your historical progress is being recorded with each run or walk.

Pacing

Not only will a GPS watch help in your training, but also on race day. Use it to stay on pace of your desired end time, and even tell you when it is time to walk and then run again if you are using the run-walk method.

What GPS Running Watch Should I Get?

When considering a GPS running watch, first ask yourself what you want to get out of it. Some people want all the bells and whistles, while others are just fine using the basic functions. The requirements of a triathlete’s GPS watch will be different from someone in the Crim Training Program. Just like we measure your feet and analyze your gait to find the perfect pair of shoes for your feet, we will help you find the right GPS watch for how you want to use it, as well as show you how to use your watch if needed.

If you have any specific questions or would like to review the options available, we will be having a GPS Tutorial at the store Wednesday, December 5 from 6:00pm – 7:00pm. Please feel free to stop by.

Nike Offers Attractive Alternative to Garmin GPS Running Watches

November 27, 2011 By Complete Runner

Garmin may come to mind when you are considering purchasing a GPS running watch but Nike has introduced an alternative earlier this year that runs circles around Garmin in terms of functionality and design. After all, Garmin develops consumer, aviation, and marine technologies for GPS devices, so it makes sense to look at the running companies that are now offering great GPS running watches because they know exactly what runners want.

Nike has recently teamed up with the GPS company TomTom to offer the Nike+ SportWatch GPS. From first glance it looks nothing like a GPS watch with its large square screen and sleek design; in fact it looks more like a hip lifestyle watch than a clunky GPS receiver.

The press release announcing the new watch says it all:

“The game-changing new running watch will provide athletes with the most dynamic and motivational running experience in the world thanks to its unique functionality, beautiful design, and direct connection to nikeplus.com.”

The Nike not only looks great but displays nice large numbers, keeps your running history logged, is easy to use, and also works inside buildings with the Nike+ Sensor. It offers interval training for those using the Galloway Method and connects with the nikeplus.com website. The website is where you can see Nike’s history with running collide with GPS technology to offer some sweet functionality. You can set goals for yourself and the watch will help you reach them; enter in a big race that you are training for and the watch will offer a training schedule to help you get ready for the big day. Best of all the Nike is like having your own running coach to motivate you, reminding you if you miss a few days of running and encouraging if you have a good run.

The Nike+ SportWatch GPS retails at $199 and is available at Complete Runner in Flint. Stop in today to check it out for yourself.

Images courtesy of Nike