Running Resources #2- Garmin Forerunner

If there is one running gadget I'm obsessed with the most...it's my Garmin Forerunner.  I LOVE this thing, and it's my best bud. 

What does this thing do? It may be easier to explain what it can't do.

• This gadget will not magically transport you to the finish line.  You will still need to put in the effort to get there.

Other than that...it pretty much does everything you'd think it could.   Some of the features I like to use include:

• Uses a GPS to track your pace, distance,time and route
• You can upload your runs to the Garmin Website (using the USB chip) and look at each specific mile's pace, as well as view a map of your run. -- Crazy part is your watch will save the memory of each run you've completed until you upload it to the internet. 
• Race a virtual partner on a downloaded course
• You can buy the Heart Rate Monitor strap to track your calories burned.
• You can pair the Garmin with a foot-pod so that if you are running where you can't get a GPS signal (treadmill, indoor track, etc) you can still track your distance/pace/time/etc
• Ability to turn on backlight in the dark.

I love the sleek design!  I have this product in BLACK, but I secretly want the green color.  Right now they have a killer price on some websites...only $160!  That's 30% less than what I originally paid for mine.

The Garmin uses something similar to a touch screen to set up your watch.  During a race you can lock your touch screen so that it doesn't change if you accidentally bump it. 

If you run in humid climates, or if it's raining.... be sure to have your watch ready prior to the race/run and locked.  The humidity or wetness makes it hard to recognize the touch sensors.  It IS waterproof (to an extent...I mean don't go plunging it in your bathtub or anything).

The battery life is pretty great on this watch.    Using the GPS satellite after you're done with your run will suck out the battery life, so always remember to turn it off afterwards.  I can usually run Monday-Friday without charging it.  And then I charge it up good Friday night for my long Saturday runs.  And I charge it after my Saturday long run.  I haven't ever ran long enough for it to die in the middle of a run.

I honestly can't think of any cons......I've had ZERO problems related to the watch.  Most of my issues are with the user...derr.