Tracking your run?

rfg1925

What is everyone using to track there runs? I'm currently using runkeeper but contemplating picking up a GPS watch and looking for some guidance. If you are using a phone app are you also using an HRM. Thanks in advance.

Pipsg1rl

My husband got me a Nike + GPS. I had to buy the HRM separate, it's a Polar and works great. Also syncs with the elliptical at home and the treadmill at work.

jrline

I have a garmin watch and does well I also use the mapmyrun app it does eat phone battery power though

yusaku02

I just map them out on google maps. But then again, I'm weird and I hate taking anything with me on runs.

glevinso

GPS watch is the best way to go - prevents you from having to drag a phone around with you.

WhatMeRunning

With my older phone I used a Scosche Rhythm HRM and the Digifit app on my phone to track my runs. Never had any trouble with that combo, but there are cooler apps than Digifit. Digifit was one of the few apps compatible with my HRM though.

My new phone allowed me to use a newer HRM and I'm currently using a Wahoo Tickr and the MapMyFitness app. Don't bother with the Wahoo Fitness app, it is a piece of crap and crashed 60% of the times I used it, thus why I am now using MapMyFitness.

I'm still on the fence about the Wahoo Tickr HRM as well. It's pretty good (particularly the offline recording) but would be better if I could also use the app because only that combo gives me all of the data the Tickr collects. So I can't recommend the HRM based on the junky app...even though the HRM itself is actually nice.

If I had the choice all over again, I'd probably purchase a Polar H7 HRM and use either MapMyFitness, Endomondo or Strava for the phone app.

Brookin973

glevinso wrote: »

GPS watch is the best way to go - prevents you from having to drag a phone around with you.

I agree. I love my Garmin ForeRunner 210. I haven't tried any other GPS watches, though, so I can't really compare it to anything else.

simonwarren777

I have a TomTom Runner Cardio with built in optical HRM

Performs really well, and uploads directly to Strava and Runkeeper (and then to MFP)

congruns

yusaku02 wrote: »

I just map them out on google maps. But then again, I'm weird and I hate taking anything with me on runs.

I used to do that because I don't own a smart phone, but Amazon had a blowout sell on Garmin 310XT, so I got that. So much easier now because at times, when you run for over 2 hours, you don't remember the exact routes you take.

rfg1925

Thanks everyone for the replies. I'm still up in there as to what to do. Keep the feedback coming and I'll keep you posted as to what I decide, thanks again,

Roxiegirl2008

I have the Garmin 210 and love it. It replaced my garmin 305 when it finally died on me. My husband uses the garmin 310 and likes that one but I think they are phasing that one out. I don't run without it.

gabbo34

I use the endomondo app, but no HRM. Really like endomondo - lots of data, rock solid and links to MFP

Old_Man_McGucket

I use the Wahoo Fitness app on my phone. It uses the phone's GPS to track the run and captures HRM data via bluetooth.

My runs are then uploaded to Garmin Connect. The Wahoo app synchs with most 3rd party tracking software (MFP, MMF, ect. with the only notable exception being Polar).

During runs, I strap my phone around my wrist, which gives me a great display.

If you're looking for the functionality of Garmin Connect, without shelling out $$$ for a watch, this may be the solution for you.

bwogilvie

For in-depth reviews of many GPS devices, check out Ray Maker (DC Rainmaker)'s site.

yusaku02

congvo wrote: »

yusaku02 wrote: »

I just map them out on google maps. But then again, I'm weird and I hate taking anything with me on runs.

I used to do that because I don't own a smart phone, but Amazon had a blowout sell on Garmin 310XT, so I got that. So much easier now because at times, when you run for over 2 hours, you don't remember the exact routes you take.

I do have a smartphone but I couldn't imagine running with something so bulky, even if it were strapped to my arm or something. But that's just me.

Old_Man_McGucket

bwogilvie wrote: »

For in-depth reviews of many GPS devices, check out Ray Maker (DC Rainmaker)'s site.

Definately this.

shaunroberts

Hey,
I use iCardio coupled with a HRM. As with all smartphone running apps don't trust the GPS distance readout. I have noticed on a mixture of phones and apps that the distance is rarely if ever accurate. My 4.4 mile run always comes out at 4.6 and occasionally 4.8 according to the GPS. If you don't believe me zoom in on your map and you'll see the line jump now and again as the GPS signal weakens or is lost. Obviously this has implications if your interested in pace.

I work it out on Google maps then manually adjust my figures. The app is still useful though. It still gives me a rough pace and more importantly time and current heart rate. I also find that the spoken info ie pace etc is very motivating:-)

As for running with my smart phone, which has a 5.7 inch screen, I use one of those plastic waterproof bags and hang it round my neck. Under my running top it stays still and I often wonder if it's still there lol

Shaun.

beemerphile1

I've been using RunKeeper for a year or so, the free version. I use the GPS function outside and the stopwatch function at the rec center.

I also use a Polar chest strap HRM but it doesn't sync with the phone. When comparing calories burned it is surprising close to the RunKeeper app.

I have thought about buying a HRM that syncs with RunKeeper but decided it isn't needed.

eshults89

RunKepper app!!! love it. ran all my races with it.

dpwellman

TomTom MultiSport synced to mapmyrun

ccburn5

I have almost 600 miles logged with RunKeeper and while I am not about to change, I did just get a FitBit and am going to start using it as well but they do sync up so thats a good thing.

Deena_Bean

I use my HRM and MapMyRun. Never tried RunKeeper, but I'm sure it's similar. r

ultimatekatie

Is there any reason you don't like RunKeeper? I've only been using it for a few weeks and am liking it so far, but I'm curious how it works for others....

stumblinthrulife

I use Endomondo.

I don't use an HRM normally, but when I do, I it's my old school Garmin Forerunner 305.

PixieGoddess

yusaku02 wrote: »

I just map them out on google maps. But then again, I'm weird and I hate taking anything with me on runs.

This. When I finally got a smartphone, I tried running with it for a while, but it's so bulky, was always a pain to get into the arm holster, and the tracking wasn't just bad - it was completely inconsistent! The mileage of the loop I ran was NEVER the same from one lap to the next! I just went back to a watch on my wrist and called it good.

rfg1925

I like runkeeper quite a bit and if I go the way of the watch I'll probably go with one that sync's with it. I also have quite a few training sessions custom built into it that I don't want to lose so it's staying for the foreseeable future. I also plan on continuing to run with my phone, I like the piece of mind having it with me when I'm out. My biggest reason for the interest is having the pace info quickly available. While runkeeper updates me at several set intervals I find myself fishing out my phone more than I would like, or missing the updates to the phone doing something else in the moment. I'm also curious as to whether or not I want to train with an HRM. Up until this point I haven't used one but it sounds interesting and I think I want to try it just for more info for myself going forward.

WhatMeRunning

PixieGoddess wrote: »

yusaku02 wrote: »

I just map them out on google maps. But then again, I'm weird and I hate taking anything with me on runs.

This. When I finally got a smartphone, I tried running with it for a while, but it's so bulky, was always a pain to get into the arm holster, and the tracking wasn't just bad - it was completely inconsistent! The mileage of the loop I ran was NEVER the same from one lap to the next! I just went back to a watch on my wrist and called it good.

Actually, this could be my preferred option in the future with this Wahoo Tickr X HRM. It will track time and heart rate. I know the distance ahead of time for the route I am running. So the phone is not necessary.

granturismo

Endomondo on android. Works most of the time.
I have lost satellite reception on 3 runs out of 50 in the same spot - a rural flatland with and without snow cloud cover.
I use the data section to track my pace progress. I've just ordered a refurbished Mio Alpha HRM which will link to endomondo. I have my phone on an arm band and dont notice it.

3dogsrunning

I have used both GPS watch and smartphone apps. Which one is better depends on what you need and want. Personally, I prefer the GPS watch. It is going to be more accurate than an app. Plus I like the ability to see the watch when I am doing things like running certain paces, or repeats or whatever. I always carried my phone in an armband and could never get the data unless I actually carried my phone. I did have voice feedback but they don't always provide prompts that will fit what I needed. I also like the training plan options. You can input target paces, goals, repeats, etc and it will prompt you.
But again, that comes down to preference and what kind of training you are actually doing.

As for which watch, I am on my 4th Garmin over a span of more than 10 years. (one lost to puppy teeth, one lost at a race and I recently replaced my third one that I bought second hand with the Garmin 920xt and gave that one away). The 920xt is a little much for someone just looking for a running watch but I've loved every Garmin I had and have been overall very happy. They have great customer service as well.
Definitely check out the dcrainmaker site someone linked above, more info than you will ever need to compare.

SuggaD

I use JogLog. I really like it because of all the features. I think it was free in the apple store.

Annanna91

When I started running about 4years ago I always used the all Map My Walk to track my progress. Whilst it was accurate with distance and pace I found it somewhat annoying, as I ran with my phone in an armband and couldn't view my stats as I was running.

So recently I purchased a Garmin GPS watch to track my runs. I haven't used it that much as the weather became too cold and the pavements too icy and slippy for my liking. But from the times I did use it I must say I was impressed. Being able to see my current pace and distance there on my wrist gave me great motivation to keep running. The watch I brought had a heart rate strap so it also shows me how many calories I've burnt which varies greatly from the app.