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When is it a good time to invest in a Garmin watch?

RunConquerCelebrate
RunConquerCelebrate Posts: 956 Member
in Social Groups
Ok so this might be a silly question, I am currently using my phone to track my runs I use the Nike App and Runkeeper. I use both for different reasons :).

But I was wondering since my running has become more serious and I have a lot of running goals for 2014. Would you say it is a good time to invest in a Garmin watch?

If I do invest in one which one do you recommend?

Replies

  • KateRunsColorado
    KateRunsColorado Posts: 407 Member
    Honestly, I like my garmin, BUT it can be a big pain in the butt. It could just be mine, but I have the hardest time getting my garmin to charge. Drives me crazy. So half the time I still use my phone anyways.

    I think the Garmin is good for 2 reasons:
    1. Running in locations without cell service (i.e. trails)
    2. Running for really long periods of time where your cell phone battery might not last (probably over 2 hours)

    So I'd say it's worth it if you're doing either of those 2 things, otherwise, the cell phone apps work fine.

    As for the different types, I have a Forerunner 210. I like it except for the charging issues I have with it. I choose it over the others because it was kind of an "in-between" watch in terms of features. It does have a heart rate monitor which is great (when I remember to use it :).
  • TheBrolympus
    TheBrolympus Posts: 586 Member
    The garmins can go from pretty cheap to really expensive depening on what you want. The Forerunner 305 is an awesome runners watch with GPS, HR, Elevation, etc. <-- Assuming you want all those features.

    I don't know a whole lot about them but Garmin just released the new 220 and 620 that seem to have some cool features.

    NOTE: Some of the garmin watches are pretty big so you might want to take a look at one before you buy (if buying online).
  • KateRunsColorado
    KateRunsColorado Posts: 407 Member
    Although it is also fun to see all of the stats on GarminConnect.com. Things like elevation, pace, split times, etc can be nice. I'm not sure if you can see those on some of the phone apps or not.

    Also, to answer your question - I bought my Garmin after I ran my first half marathon and knew I was serious about running and was going to stick with it.
  • _Josee_
    _Josee_ Posts: 625 Member
    ^^ this!!

    I have a love/gate relationship with my FR210... because of the charging cradle. It's just stupid!

    But I think garmin has 2 new models out (this month) that are using a new design for charging and syncing via bluethoot. I would go with the latest model you can find!
  • HornedFrogPride
    HornedFrogPride Posts: 283 Member
    NOW! (free shipping if you buy through Garmin.com and use the holiday code). I have a Forerunner 410 now and love it (except for the Bezel which is a beast). I've used it for years and the only problems I've had have been the watch being "full" (just have to clear old runs) and the touchy, sensitive bezel. I just bought a 620 and haven't gotten it yet but it's getting rave reviews from my geeky running friends who are into high-tech running analysis/coaching help. Would not recommend the 410 due to bezel problems. Based on my decision, I would recommend the 620. I use Runkeeper to double-check mileage (weird phenomena with Forerunner 410 not counting tunnel mileage for example). Past 16 miles or so of running, my phone dies usually. My Garmin rolls on.
  • MinimalistShoeAddict
    MinimalistShoeAddict Posts: 1,946 Member
    Great reviews on all the top watches here:
    http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2013/11/sports-gadgets-recommendations.html

    You can choose your favorites and use this to compare the features:
    http://www.dcrainmaker.com/product-comparison-calculator

    I LOVE the Garmin FR 220
  • mitchyinge
    mitchyinge Posts: 196
    I can't imagine NOT having my Garmin now - the thought of running without it (which I do, very very occasionally) is awful. Mine is very basic, a used FR10, it doesn't hook up to a HRM but when I upload activities to GarminConnect I get lots more interesting data. My only regret is not getting my own one sooner and just relying on a friend. And maybe not realising how important it would become for me, if I'd known I might have got a much snazzier model!

    It has helped me track my progress in terms of distance and pace, set goals, share the relevant info with a friend who 'coaches' me and all in a much easier way than if I had to keep manual records.
  • KateRunsColorado
    KateRunsColorado Posts: 407 Member
    This website also has them, and I believe they always have free shipping:
    http://www.heartratemonitorsusa.com/

    I bought mine refurbished from Groupon. Got the Forerunner 210 with HRM for $150 vs. $250 new (although they may be less than that now that new models are out - I do hope they fixed the charging issues!)
  • rockstarginaa
    rockstarginaa Posts: 1,529 Member
    Honestly, I like my garmin, BUT it can be a big pain in the butt. It could just be mine, but I have the hardest time getting my garmin to charge. Drives me crazy. So half the time I still use my phone anyways.

    I think the Garmin is good for 2 reasons:
    1. Running in locations without cell service (i.e. trails)
    2. Running for really long periods of time where your cell phone battery might not last (probably over 2 hours)

    So I'd say it's worth it if you're doing either of those 2 things, otherwise, the cell phone apps work fine.

    As for the different types, I have a Forerunner 210. I like it except for the charging issues I have with it. I choose it over the others because it was kind of an "in-between" watch in terms of features. It does have a heart rate monitor which is great (when I remember to use it :).

    I agree with the above. My only issue with my Garmin is it is impossible to charge most of the time.
  • essjay76
    essjay76 Posts: 465 Member
    When is a good time? When you decide you really want to take your training to another level. Regardless of whether or not you like data, stats, reports, it's an excellent tool to help you with your workouts.

    There are tons of awesome apps like Runkeeper, etc. but sometimes it can be a pain if you don't get a signal on your phone. PLUS, who wants to ruin their iPhone by running with it in the rain?

    The watch is just so easy and convenient. You can upload your stats anywhere - to whatever software is provided with your watch or even an online journal (Garmins sync with Runkeeper, DailyMile, their Garmin Connect website, etc.).

    Forgot to add - I had a 305 for the longest time and would've still been using it had I not dropped it in a port-a-potty before a race. LOL!! I now have the 410 and I LOVE it. One of the best running investments I've ever made.
  • RunnerElizabeth
    RunnerElizabeth Posts: 1,091 Member
    Great reviews on all the top watches here:
    http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2013/11/sports-gadgets-recommendations.html

    You can choose your favorites and use this to compare the features:
    http://www.dcrainmaker.com/product-comparison-calculator

    I LOVE the Garmin FR 220


    I purchased the garmin fr 220 yesterday after one of my mfp friends pointed me to the reviews at the above site.

    I decided it was time because I finally have more than two paces (going and stopped). I feel like now that I'm a little more comfortable running faster occasionally that this will help me achieve my goals. I also liked th as t with the fr220 I can set my own programs and have it prompt me when I'm out running. Basically I got it because I want to do more speed workouts without being forced to the treadmill. And I wanted one with a heart rate monitor.
  • RunConquerCelebrate
    RunConquerCelebrate Posts: 956 Member
    Honestly, I like my garmin, BUT it can be a big pain in the butt. It could just be mine, but I have the hardest time getting my garmin to charge. Drives me crazy. So half the time I still use my phone anyways.

    I think the Garmin is good for 2 reasons:
    1. Running in locations without cell service (i.e. trails)
    2. Running for really long periods of time where your cell phone battery might not last (probably over 2 hours)

    So I'd say it's worth it if you're doing either of those 2 things, otherwise, the cell phone apps work fine.

    As for the different types, I have a Forerunner 210. I like it except for the charging issues I have with it. I choose it over the others because it was kind of an "in-between" watch in terms of features. It does have a heart rate monitor which is great (when I remember to use it :).

    I am not running trails probably will not do that for a long time. So far the Nike App gives me some good numbers but I do not think it goes into details like the garmin does
  • RunConquerCelebrate
    RunConquerCelebrate Posts: 956 Member
    The garmins can go from pretty cheap to really expensive depening on what you want. The Forerunner 305 is an awesome runners watch with GPS, HR, Elevation, etc. <-- Assuming you want all those features.

    I don't know a whole lot about them but Garmin just released the new 220 and 620 that seem to have some cool features.

    NOTE: Some of the garmin watches are pretty big so you might want to take a look at one before you buy (if buying online).

    Not sure I am into all of the detail quite yet but pretty sure I will get there. Thanks for the tip on them being pretty big I will have to go check it out at a store before thinking of buying one
  • RunConquerCelebrate
    RunConquerCelebrate Posts: 956 Member
    ^^ this!!

    I have a love/gate relationship with my FR210... because of the charging cradle. It's just stupid!

    But I think garmin has 2 new models out (this month) that are using a new design for charging and syncing via bluethoot. I would go with the latest model you can find!

    Thanks I will do some research
  • RunConquerCelebrate
    RunConquerCelebrate Posts: 956 Member
    NOW! (free shipping if you buy through Garmin.com and use the holiday code). I have a Forerunner 410 now and love it (except for the Bezel which is a beast). I've used it for years and the only problems I've had have been the watch being "full" (just have to clear old runs) and the touchy, sensitive bezel. I just bought a 620 and haven't gotten it yet but it's getting rave reviews from my geeky running friends who are into high-tech running analysis/coaching help. Would not recommend the 410 due to bezel problems. Based on my decision, I would recommend the 620. I use Runkeeper to double-check mileage (weird phenomena with Forerunner 410 not counting tunnel mileage for example). Past 16 miles or so of running, my phone dies usually. My Garmin rolls on.

    awesome thanks for the tip
  • RunConquerCelebrate
    RunConquerCelebrate Posts: 956 Member
    Great reviews on all the top watches here:
    http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2013/11/sports-gadgets-recommendations.html

    You can choose your favorites and use this to compare the features:
    http://www.dcrainmaker.com/product-comparison-calculator

    I LOVE the Garmin FR 220

    Thanks
  • RunConquerCelebrate
    RunConquerCelebrate Posts: 956 Member
    I can't imagine NOT having my Garmin now - the thought of running without it (which I do, very very occasionally) is awful. Mine is very basic, a used FR10, it doesn't hook up to a HRM but when I upload activities to GarminConnect I get lots more interesting data. My only regret is not getting my own one sooner and just relying on a friend. And maybe not realising how important it would become for me, if I'd known I might have got a much snazzier model!

    It has helped me track my progress in terms of distance and pace, set goals, share the relevant info with a friend who 'coaches' me and all in a much easier way than if I had to keep manual records.

    Thanks I guess I am getting more serious about my running, I was afraid to spend money on one and not continue to run. But have been really thinking about it
  • RunConquerCelebrate
    RunConquerCelebrate Posts: 956 Member
    When is a good time? When you decide you really want to take your training to another level. Regardless of whether or not you like data, stats, reports, it's an excellent tool to help you with your workouts.

    There are tons of awesome apps like Runkeeper, etc. but sometimes it can be a pain if you don't get a signal on your phone. PLUS, who wants to ruin their iPhone by running with it in the rain?

    The watch is just so easy and convenient. You can upload your stats anywhere - to whatever software is provided with your watch or even an online journal (Garmins sync with Runkeeper, DailyMile, their Garmin Connect website, etc.).

    Forgot to add - I had a 305 for the longest time and would've still been using it had I not dropped it in a port-a-potty before a race. LOL!! I now have the 410 and I LOVE it. One of the best running investments I've ever made.

    Thanks for the detailed information, I never thought about running in the rain with my phone since in the desert we hardly get any rain. But thanks for reminding me of that. I am ready to take my training to another lever therefore the reason I was thinking of getting one.
  • RunConquerCelebrate
    RunConquerCelebrate Posts: 956 Member
    Great reviews on all the top watches here:
    http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2013/11/sports-gadgets-recommendations.html

    You can choose your favorites and use this to compare the features:
    http://www.dcrainmaker.com/product-comparison-calculator

    I LOVE the Garmin FR 220


    I purchased the garmin fr 220 yesterday after one of my mfp friends pointed me to the reviews at the above site.

    I decided it was time because I finally have more than two paces (going and stopped). I feel like now that I'm a little more comfortable running faster occasionally that this will help me achieve my goals. I also liked th as t with the fr220 I can set my own programs and have it prompt me when I'm out running. Basically I got it because I want to do more speed workouts without being forced to the treadmill. And I wanted one with a heart rate monitor.

    Thanks I will check out the reviews above
  • mitchyinge
    mitchyinge Posts: 196
    have you made a decision? :)

    am still learning how to use the garmin connect thing, am duplicating stuff from here a bit but can add notes to each run about how much food/water I take before, during and after run and how enjoyable each one was (1 - not even slightly enjoyable at all really, 2 - enjoyable and horrible in equal parts, 3 - enjoyable overall) and how quickly I ping back from a Long One. Then I can use the compare tool and look at the variation between runs of similar distance, and compare my perception with Garmin's assessment.

    hopefully at some point this information will be useful to me but you can't really have too much can you?
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
    Personally, I think having a decent HRM for HR training is more important than GPS. Garmins offer a lot of data, which I love, but most of it has little real training value beyond what you can get from good phone apps.

    I bought mine for a few reasons:
    1) phone battery didn't last long enough
    2) I frequently train/race in areas with iffy cell coverage
    3) I'm a data junkie

    But I still train by distance, speed and hr, none of which require a Garmin, or even GPS for that matter.

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