Timex vs Garmin HRM

quilteryoyo

Hi,

I am going to a running store today to finally get fitted for a new pair of running shoes. I may also buy a HRM with a chest strap. But, I believe the only one they have in the store is the Timex brand. I was just wondering what you all think of that vs the Garmin. Should I just order one off the internet? Any thoughts would be appreciated.

snowboardn

I can't compare to timex buy my garmin works great. I have the Forerunner 405, it acquires satellites pretty quickly and seems to have a very accurate HRM. I can also upload my workouts to Garmin.com automatically via a usb attachment. I am very pleased with it.

*Edit* I actually bought mine at Bestbuy so if you have one of those you might be able to pick it up there or any sports store.

erickirb

From my knowledge, I have found that Timex tends to over estimate the calories burned (higher burns for same duration and average HR).

quilteryoyo

I don't really have a budget. I'll be using my reward money from exercising and I have about $400 in the pot right not. I don't think they cost that much. \

I'd like to have one that will track distance, as I run on country roads and have been estimating distance based on driving the car and noting every quarter mile or so. I also would like one that will help me see my HR in real time so I can adjust my pace when I want to have an easy day. I eventually want to run a marathon.....way in the future, but anything that would help me train for that and not get injured is my goal.

snowboardn

With that said, it sounds like Garmin would be perfect for you... Mine was $299, it is a little intimidating at first but there really isn't all that much to it. I can use it in the gym without GPS to track my HR and Cals burned or I can turn the gps on and run anywhere (outside) you can run through the woods if you like and it will track your elevation and distance.

quilteryoyo

The Garmin Forerunner 210 is one of the best deals on the market today. For a minimal investment you get an amazing workout tracker. The GPS is spot on, the HR algorithms are fantastic, its compatible footpod is great for dreadmill sessions, and the ANT+ technology is top notch.

If you're looking for JUST a heart rate monitor, then you could do fine spending much less..but it won't be nearly as functional.

Whatever you do, stay away from the Timex.
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Thanks for the information.

quilteryoyo

Thanks. Sounds like the Garmin Forerunner 210 is the pick of the day. Sounds like a great Christmas gift to myself. :flowerforyou: :flowerforyou:

scottb81

Look at these reviews and you can choose one based on the features you want and the price you are willing to pay. This site also contains a very good summary of the good and the bad of each brand and model. http://www.dcrainmaker.com/product-reviews

Also check out http://www.dcrainmaker.com/product-comparison-calculator

quilteryoyo

Thanks.

timeasterday

The Garmin 410 actually has many more features than the 210 and costs $100 less on Amazon right now. I'm looking at these two right now and don't quite understand the difference in price. The downsides to the 410 are a bezel that some people find difficult to operate and it's a little bulkier than the 210. I really like the simplicity of the 210 and just simple buttons as opposed to a touch bezel, but I have a hard time justifying $250 for the 210 vs. $150 for the 410.

Lots of good info here:
http://www.dcrainmaker.com/product-reviews