If you own a Garmin, would you recommend it to others?

We have just completed a survey about running among members of the PEERtrainer community. Very interesting results- the biggest thing we are seeing is that there are a TON of very experienced runners and even more people who want to START running.

So we are going to be sending some new articles out by people who have a lot of experience to share.

We also asked about specific tools people use, and hands down the Garmin GPS watch is the favorite. I recently was given one as a gift and I love it. I have been running seriously for half a year now, and the Garmin (310XT) added a whole new dimension to my running. Three main benefits for me:

1) it freed me to run anywhere and be able to track my run. Before I would eyeball my miles, run on a pre-determined and measured course, or run with others who had a Garmin. Now I find myself running everywhere and I find the experience more of a journey and even adventure.

2) it helps me manage my runs better- I use the heart rate monitor that came with the watch and I am watching my heart rate to make sure I am in a proper zone. Before I would burn myself out. As a result I can now run further.

3) It is helping me run faster and further. I am doing a lot more splits now, mainly mile splits, which helps me measure my speed and keep increasing it. I find that I am able to do my mile splits faster and faster.

And because I am also managing my heart rate it allows me to run much further because I am making sure to keep my heart rate at a sustainable rate. I can rest and bring my heart rate down, which allows for a longer run.

I am just learning how to use the tool but overall I cannot imagine running without it.

Please share your feedback...

-Habib

Sat. Jan 23, 4:11pm

here is the link to the PEERtrainer community feedback on Garmin Forerunner GPS watches:

Link

Saturday, January 23, 2010, 4:39 PM

I have a Garmin Forerunner 301. I have this one because I compete in triathlons and the touch bezel on the higher end ones wouldn't be good for me after the swim portion. I love my Garmin! I've used several Polars in the past, but, for me, the Garmin beats any of them hands down. Features I like the most: plugging it in to my computer when I get home and "seeing" my workout graphed out, pacing...I have a tendency to go out to fast on the bike and run, and the split feature....it'll even keep up with my transition times.

Saturday, January 23, 2010, 6:36 PM

Garmin 305 - Pacing Question

Recently started training with the 305 (heart rate monitor, gps, GARMIN CONNECT!) and love it! this one is mac compatible. (perhaps they all are now?)

QUESTION: have any of you used this to pace for half or full marathons?

I realize you can do several combinations, but I'd really appreciate hearing from folks who have road tested this at races. I'm all about negative splits and starting out moderately and keeping a steady pace.

I ran my first marathon with a pace group, and the pacer used this same Garmin. Perhaps she was so well seasoned that she knew the feel of her running pace and only needed to set the alarm on it if she went above or below set pace? I'm guessing, because she rarely checked it, only at the mile markers. but then what about when you slow down a bit at aid stations? Or use the port-a-potties? Just keep hitting alarm off... slightly annoying, but worth it I suppose. I don't know if there are other options I should consider... Would love some feedback!

I absolutely love, love, love GARMIN CONNECT online!!! How did I ever live without this?! I love my Garmin soooo much! I hug it and squeeze it and call him George!

Sunday, February 13, 2011, 3:28 PM

highly- love garmin connect, love being able to track my miles and my pace. I have the 310xt- great piece of technology.

PS, use the heart rate monitor!

Monday, February 14, 2011, 9:41 AM

yes, yes, yes, yes, yes! I don't know how I did things without one. I love the garmin.

P.S. I agree with the poster above. Use the heart rate monitor.

Monday, February 14, 2011, 10:10 AM

Related Content: How To Lose Weight- The Basics Weight Watchers Points System The Fat Smash Diet The Eat To Live Diet The Beck Diet Solution How To Get The Motivation To Lose Weight		How To Be Successful Using PEERtrainer How To Burn Fat Online Weight Loss Support- How It Works Does Green Tea Help You Lose Weight? Tips On Using PEERtrainer Visit The PEERtrainer Community Diet and Fitness Resources
Fitness Weight Watchers Meetings Learning To Inspire Others: You Already Are Writing Down Your Daily Workouts Spending Money On A Personal Trainer? How I Became A Marathon Runner		Preventive Health How To Prevent Injuries During Your Workout Flu Season: Should You Take The Flu Shot? Are You Really Ready To Start PEERtrainer? Super Foods That Can Boost Your Energy Reversing Disease Through Nutrition
New Diet and Fitness Articles: Weight Watchers Points Plus How To Adjust Your Body To Exercise New: Weight Watchers Momentum Program New: PEERtrainer Blog Archive Review Of The New Weight Watchers Momentum Program		Weight Loss Motivation by Joshua Wayne: Why Simple Goal Setting Is Not Enough How To Delay Short Term Gratification How To Stay Motivated How To Exercise With A Busy Schedule
Real World Nutrition and Fitness Questions Can Weight Lifting Help You Lose Weight? Are Protein Drinks Safe? Nutrition As Medicine?		Everyday Weight Loss Tips How To Eat Healthy At A Party How To Eat Out And Still Lose Weight The Three Bite Rule Tips On How To Stop A Binge