As I mentioned in my previous post, I’m currently training for a half marathon. To assist me with my training I’ve been trying to keep record of my progress so I can give myself goals to achieve! I’ve been using MapMyRun over the past couple of months to track my progress and its been suiting me just fine, despite negative reviews online. The reviews made me question if the tracker was accurate and if it was providing me with a real representation of distance and pace.
I recently got my hands on the Garmin Forerunner 10 GPS watch. The tracker is essentially the “entry-level” device in the Garmin lineup. I was sceptical about using another sports watch after being underwhelmed fro using the Polar FT7 (you can see my review here). I’d read good reviews about the watch online and thought it was about time to put it to the test.
My first impression of the watch, was that it was relatively small and light with a good size screen, perfect for reading when you’re running. It has an adjustable strap that is suitable for even the smallest of wrist, and came in a range of colours; black, black and red, pink, green, violet and orange.
I was mildly concerned about going out and using the Garmin watch, in case I clicked the wrong button and erased my data but it was surprisingly simple to use. On the top left is a back light button. On the top right is a button that serves to initiate a workout and functions as the “enter key” in menus. Bottom left is a back button, and bottom right is the button you use to pull up and scroll menus.
There are 6 data field combos that can be shown on each screen: Time/Distance, Time/Pace, Time/Calories, Pace/Distance, Pace/Calories, Distance/Calories. You get to choose two of these via the Run Options—>Data Fields menu on the watch.
Virtual Pacer
allows you to specify a goal pace (i.e. 7:45/mile) and then the watch will alert you when you’ve gone too fast or too slow.Walk/Run function
is targeted at those who may be using training plans that incorporate walking into the long-distance running – typically for a short period of time like a minute. These plans have become vastly more popular in the last few years.Auto Lap
will automatically set a marker/lap at the end of a given time period – as defined by you.There’s no additional power block for the wall, so you’ll need to find your own USB port somewhere. The USB charging cable is what’s also used to download data from the unit and upload it to Garmin Connect. Additionally, as an entry-level watch the FR10 does not include a heart rate monitor. I don’t generally use a heart rate monitor, so no big deal for me.
Once you get home you can plug your watch into your computer and upload your race to Garmin Connect. Originally, I was a bit annoyed that I couldn’t see my route and more in-depth information straight away and share instantly.
However, uploading was really quick and easy, all at the touch of a button and then I could see an even more detailed summary of my run. I was impressed with how much information it provided. The dashboard even shows your personal best records.
As you can see below, the summary is comprehensive and even records the weather. I found it really useful that it recorded elevation gained alongside my split pace – as the half marathon I’ve chosen to do is known for being very hilly.
You can instantly share with friends on social media or e-mail. However, I can’t seem to find which of my friends on social media have a Garmin device, as you can only add people by knowing there username, which is quite frustrating! So I don’t have anyone to compare my times against at the moment.
However, you can set up training plans and as well as goals to work towards. I decided against a training plan as I have a loose training plan for myself that is flexible around my work and university assignments. Especially as I like an impromptu run occasionally.
Additionally, you can download the Garmin Connect app and it will provide you with all your information, just as above in a lovely interface, again – perfect for sharing!
Conclusion
Overall, I wouldn’t go back to using MapMyRun or any other training app. Although you have to plug it into your computer to upload your data, it is by far the best way for me to track my training. It provides far more information and I don’t have to worry about carrying my phone, or it draining my battery before heading out for work.
Garmin Forerunner 10 is available here for £99.99.
Pros
- Tracks distance, pace and calories with the press a button
- Virtual Pacer™ compares current pace to target
- Don’t have to carry your phone with you
- Walk/Run function and Auto-pause feature
- Plan, review and share runs at Garmin Connect™
- Inexpensive, cheapest GPS watch Garmin’s made
- Easy to use, small and lightweight
Cons
- No heart rate monitor (HRM) function for more serious runners
- No power block for the wall, so you have to charge through your PC