Running Watch
If you’re someone who is into serious running, you’re going to have to buy a running watch with features that go beyond those of cheap sports watches. At the very least the watch must have an LCD display, countdown timer, record session histories and store splits segments in the runs.
LCD Displays and Storing Lap Split Segment Time
Look for watches with a large clear LCD display. The figures should be clear enough you can read at arm’s distance as you run. When running against others, you’ll also need the watch to record the lap times.
Calculating the lap split time segment is also crucial for some athletes. This feature is certainly necessary if you want to know how fast or slow you’ve been going the last few meters.
Recording Multiple Laps
When you buy a running watch, you’ll also want one that can record multiple lap times in its memory. Even better are running watches that can store this information and date-sort it. This feature will allow a runner to determine their performance over several sessions.
Countdown Timer
This allows the watch to count from X number of seconds down to zero and sound an alarm. Look for countdown timers that can repeat once it’s done.
Other Advanced Features
Some running watches have GPS tracking capabilities, while others comes with complete summaries of the workout session. This is complete with the entire mileage, interval timers and many other extras.
Before you buy a running watch, ask yourself if these features are really necessary. When the watch says it has this or that feature, do some research first and determine if it’s something you’ll find useful.
Running Watches with Heart Monitors
A running watch with a heart monitor will gauge the runner’s heartbeat. Some athletes like to base their workout on this info. If you’re doing a slow recovery run, you can use this feature to ascertain the beats per minute is at the right level.
Distance Running Watches
These watches determine how far one is into the workout. There are several options for those who want to buy a running watch with this feature. The most precise and costly are running watches with GPS. Next are those watches that have an accelerometer foot pod device.
The least expensive ones are the pedometer watches. These watches estimate the miles you’ve gone by counting the steps length and number. A running pace watch on the other hand, measures your present mileage.
Features vs. Appearance
Serious runners should always choose watches that emphasize features rather than style. Sometimes a nice looking watch is compromised by some feature limitations.
Another factor that buyers should consider is the watch durability. Cheaper sports watches won’t be able to withstand a rigorous workout. Read some online reviews to get an idea of what the most durable watches are.
It can be difficult to buy a running watch as they come in so many different types. But as long as they have the basic features described earlier, it should work for you just fine.
