Question:
Two days ago my watch died. Totaly fried, I had just had the battery
changed and I think the chick that did it shorted something out. I'm
not mad b/c it was a 8 year old watch (I don't like change). Anyway I
need a new running watch. I would like one that does laps (not just
splits but actual laps). I am really into statistics as a way to
determine how successfull my workouts are so one that would also record
alot of info. I've seen some that have GPS in them and even one that
was at the Cabella's website that would tell you the best times to fish
(it also had a stopwatch but not sure if it did laps, I just thought it
was cool since I am an avid fisherman). Anyway if anyone has a good
suggestion that would be great. A could other things I don't like the
big bulky watches, and I want it to be comfortable to wear. I will be
wearing in running (duh) and also doing activites like fishing and
hiking. Thanks.
Answer:My preference is for the timex iron man watches. There are a variety of models
that store different numbers of laps. The newer ones use an easy to hit button
on the front of the watch for both "start" and "split" (instead of making
start/stop the same button). Beats reaching for a button on the side, especially
in winter when you're wearing mitts/gloves.
I don't see a whole lot of utility in a GPS. You could use it for course
measurement, but you can also get good results for free with google earth,
or just estimate the length of your routes. The lack of utility doesn't alter
the fact that they are fun as "geek toys".
My advice would be to get a Timex ironman for about $30, and get a separate
GPS "thing" which could be a watch or a dedicated unit for hiking or fishing.
You could even carry the GPS on a run once, to measure a workout course or to
map a route (I've done this to create maps of trail routes)
The advantage of this approach is that you will have much better options for
fishing/hiking GPS units greatly improve if you don't require it to be a
multi lap stopwatch.
suggestion that would be great. A could other things I don't like the
big bulky watches, and I want it to be comfortable to wear.
Well there's the rub. Anything with a GPS is going to be bigger than the
average watch.
i have a garmin forerunner gps watch, and i love it. especially nice
when you're running an unfamiliar course and don't know the distance. i
had the 201, but i like the 101 because it uses AAA batteries, which
are a lot easier to get if you don't have the charger handy. i use
rechargeable AAAs. either one is great, in my opinion.. 201 is
currently $90 at amazon. nice price.
i also have an ironman triathlon watch i use when i'm at the track or
running a familiar course (where i know the mileage).
