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GPS with HRM watch

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goalie35
goalie35 Posts: 245 Member
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Looking for recommendations for a GPS watch that also has a HRM. I currently use my smartphone along with a Polar FT4 but I worry that my phone would die with longer training. The battery can get pretty low when I use it for 1/2 marathons. I am currently using my phone for GPS and music player.

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  • schmenge55
    schmenge55 Posts: 745 Member
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    i have been using Garmin (various models) for years and have always been happy with them. They have models for every budget
  • CarsonRuns
    CarsonRuns Posts: 3,039 Member
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    Garmin is the industry leader. Can't go wrong with them.

    In depth product reviews can be found here:
    http://www.dcrainmaker.com/product-reviews/garmin
  • _Josee_
    _Josee_ Posts: 625 Member
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    I'm pretty sure everyone here will tell you to get a Garmin.

    They have models ranging from 100$ to 600$; you will have no trouble finding one doing what you need it to do :)
  • PinkNinjaLaura
    PinkNinjaLaura Posts: 3,202 Member
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    There's a very recent conversation on this board about Garmins so you can find more detailed answers here:

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/1335688-garmin-gps-input
  • CodeMonkey78
    CodeMonkey78 Posts: 320 Member
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    I have the Forerunner 220 and love it. I had the Nike SportWatch before picking this one up. I'm really fond of knowing my run cadence for different paces, etc. without having to buy the shoe pod. I will warn that it is not very accurate on a treadmill, but that doesn't bother me. I despise the treadmill.

    The battery life is decent (about 8/10 hours depending on your settings). When I am ready and able to run the longer Ultra events, I will replace this one with the Garmin Fenix 2 (or next version).

    If you want HR data, I would highly recommend going with the Mio Link HR monitor. It syncs over both ANT/Bluetooth, it's accurate, and you don't have to wear a chest strap (so no extra chafing!).

    HTH. Good luck!
  • The_Enginerd
    The_Enginerd Posts: 3,983 Member
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    What phone and what apps are you using for music/tracking? I do the same thing you are currently doing, and over the course of a half marathon I would use 10-15% of my battery.
  • goalie35
    goalie35 Posts: 245 Member
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    The running app that I use is Runkeeper. My phone is a Samsung Axiom. It might also do to the fact that some of the places I've ran does not have regular cell service.
  • MeanderingMammal
    MeanderingMammal Posts: 7,866 Member
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    It's worth switching off the WiFi and phone modules if power is an issue for you.

    I've found Runkeeper, Endomondo and Strava ok for power, Runtastic was lethal for the battery.
  • Samstan101
    Samstan101 Posts: 699 Member
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    I'm a big fan of Garmin watches but less so their HRM's. I just can't to get them register accurately every time. I've invested in a Mio Link and found it fantastic teamed with my Garmin - no more spikes or drop outs, records heart rate changes when I'd expect to see them (hills etc).

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