The Best GPS Running Watches for Beginners

GPS running watches primarily help runners to track their progress and pace themselves by providing information on distances run and times to complete them. Rather than guess at the riding pace, runners are given exact times and can retrace their routes at another time to compare their overall running improvement over time. GPS running watches have become a staple of long-distance runners, triathlon competitors, and others. The following provides information on some of the best GPS watches for runners.

Timex Ironman One GPS+

The Timex IronMan One GPS+ is an evolutionary “smartwatch” that works as a GPS running watch, an MP3 player, and a texting service. The watch is light and comfortable to wear and allows runners to get text messages while on the go and to respond to them. Unlike many other GPS watches, it does not require a connection to a cellular phone, but it does need a data plan for full operation. There is no heart rate monitor, so runners looking for that option will need to find another watch. Otherwise, it’s a highly competent and effective GPS running watch.

Adidas MiCoach Smart Run

The Smart Run is an Android-powered device with GPS tracking and a heart rate monitor. The Smart Run provides information on running pace, time, distance, and the amount of calories burned. When installed, a virtual coach application will tell wearers whether to speed up or slow down to maintain an ideal heart rate. The watch has a simple interface that is easy to use while running, and it includes 3GB of storage space for storing music to be played while running. The Smart Run is water resistant for running in the rain and comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Its battery is good for up to four hours in training mode and eight hours in marathon mode. Recharging simply requires access to a USB port and using the included charger.

Polar M400

The M400 is a relatively affordable GPS running watch that includes a heart rate monitor and provides around-the-clock information on activity, calories burned, and the number of steps taken throughout the day and night. An integrated Web service provides detailed analysis for runners to help them determine where they are doing well and where they need to improve. The watch has a sleek and attractive face with side buttons for changing functions and launching applications while competing or training for events.

Visit our sporting goods store in Georgetown to check out all the latest GPS equipment for runners.