What Can a GPS Running Watch Do For You?
Today's technology has given us a very interesting and useful device designed to make outdoor activities more exciting and safe at the same time. A GPS running watch may look like your average watch, but on the inside it is packed with GPS features.
GPS running watches keep data on your runs
What is GPS and what can GPS do? GPS stands for "Global Positioning System" and it is a network of 24 satellites that are way up in Earth's orbit. By exchanging signals with these satellites, a modern GPS device (like your GPS running watch) can measure your exact position on Earth's surface accurate to within 3 meters.
Knowing these coordinates and tracking your progress with the device opens up wonderful possibilities for the outdoor athlete! IF you have ever wanted to venture off on an obscure trail but were afraid of not being able to get back, you can appreciate the "breadcrumb" feature of these watches. It records your past locations and can easily guide you back the way you came.
Of course getting where you are going is easier with these devices as well. Instead of consulting old and out of date maps, you can see your route in the city and out in the wilderness on the GPS it's self. Advanced sports GPS watches come with a set of basemaps that mark major routes and even some trails. Expanding these maps to more detailed ones of your area is possible as well.
In addition to tracking and locating features, a GPS running watch can calculate your speed, distance, and in some cases even your heart rate, calories burned and more! Advanced models like the Forerunner 305 can do even more and be a valuable asset to runners and other athletes.
If you have health issues, these more advanced features of GPS running watches can literally be a lifesaver. If your doctor recommends heart rate monitoring for exercise then it doesn't get any easier or more convient that these advanced sports watches.
Depending on the watch you choose, many models come with extra bonuses like workout companions. These software programs help you plan your workouts and keep track of your progress on yout computer. The more advanced running GPS watches hook right up to your PC via the USB port for interfacing with the software and downloading map updates.
Important Features of a GPS Running Watch
Heart rate monitor
GPS running watches are more than just sporty looking, they are functional too! The most important job of your GPS watch is to help make your workouts easier and safer. They do this by collecting a variety of data that wouldn't be possible without the help of GPS.
What features should you look for when buying a GPS running watch? Let's take a look...
Speed and Distance Tracking Data
If you are training for competitive running, you probably practice with the goal of improving your speed. The built in features of these sports watches can give you an accurate picture of how far you have gone and how fast you completed the track. While your favorite track won't get any longer, you will get faster and you can see your improvement at a glance.
Data Storage and Computer Integration
Here's one advanced feature of today's GPS running watches - they have on board stroage capiabilities to record your workouts for later processing on your computer. Some watches come with bonus workout software that will help you track your progress and create custom workout plans. The information can be easily passed back and forth from the watch to the computer for charting your progress over time.
Interval Training Timer
If you train for triathalon or biathalon events, then you will appreciate the ability to track your progress in steps with a built in interval training timer. This step training feature is perfect for activities that are not a continous exercise. Most watches also come with a standard countdown timer.
Heart Rate Monitor
If you have health issues that require you to watch your heartrate, the heart rate monitor feature of some GPS running watches can literally save your life.
With an optional chest strap, your advanced sports watch can take real time accurate measurements of your heart rate and store that data for later charting. This way you can keep track of your hear rate throughout your workout and share the results with your doctor or trainer.
For runners looking for a good cardiovascular workout, these devices can also alert you to slow down or speed up your pace to maintain a heart rate in the optimal range.
Top 3 GPS Running Watches
Top GPS Running Watches
There are several models of GPS enabled sports watches to choose from. The pioneer in this technology is undobutably Garmin. Known for making high quality GPS devices, the Garmin line extends to bring us some of the most advanced and functional running watches out there.
Top Three GPS Running Watches
#1) Garmin Forerunner 305 With Heart Rate Monitor
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