Running Watches - What to Look For in a Running Watch

So you need to buy a running watch? What sort of features do you need? How much do you want to spend? How long will it last you? Will having one improve your running time?


These are some of the questions that plague runners at least more than once in their running life especially nowadays where manufactures are releasing new functions for running watches every few months.

Well read on as this article will clear some of the questions you may have about running watches and hopefully get you the running watch you deserve! (and knock those extra minutes of your personal best as well).

What type of Running Watch do you need?

Perhaps you never run with a watch but have recently taken running more seriously and want to improve your times. Or maybe you already have a basic running watch but want to upgrade to something better as your current running watch doesn't quite get the job done.

Whether you're a casual runner (1 to 2 walks / runs per week), you should still consider and think about getting a good running watch. A good runner is one of the best investments you will make as a runner. A good running watch will last you for years and you will have those extra functions to play with as you become better at running.

Basic Functions to Look Out For

As a runner, the most important requirement is to track the time of your runs. Almost all running watches feature a basic chronograph stopwatch. If a running watch does not have a chronograph - it basically wasn't designed to be run in. Another important thing to remember when buying a running watch is if you are comfortable wearing it. There is no point wearing something that is a super computer but makes you feel uncomfortable. You should always be looking for a running watch which has the following essential features:

1. A large clear display that is easy to look at while running.

2. A stopwatch chronograph with the ability to record split times.

3. The ability to store laps in its memory.

4. Has an interval timer mode and countdown timer.

5. A heart rate monitor (optional).

You should also consider choosing a running watch with the ability to record lap splits during your running sessions. This can be useful for measuring individual lap times around a running track or part of a long run.

If you are running a lot, then a watch with the ability to record a history of runs for download to PC or Mac is also a blessing as it will take the hard work out of hand recording all of your running data into a journal.

If you are more serious athlete, then you may be familiar with the use of a heart rate monitor as well which will keep track of your heart beats to tell how hard you are pushing yourself. Many running watches these days even have built in GPS watches or footpods to track how far you running ! No more need to do any guesswork.

In the end, I always recommend that you should always look carefully at the features of a watch you are eying off to ensure it is a good match for your needs. There are even watches specially made for women! Try a lot of them on for size and make sure it fits you well - there is nothing worse than a poor fitting running watch.

Alex Lam is an avid runner, marathoner and running journalist. Some of his passions including helping people, the outdoors, fitness and of course running watches.


http://www.watchesforrunning.com


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