I really would like to know how far I am running. So I was considering getting my odometer transmitter replaced on my bike, as it fell off when it was on the back of the car earlier this year. Then I could cycle my running route and record the distances. However, it occurred to me that there was a much better way. Now pay attention Funky Dave, if you reading this, because you should really get one of these:
A GPS watch. Simple. Type "GPS watch" into Google and click on the main sponsored link and you get details of the Forerunner 101. For £99 it does everything you need - pace, distance , time, lap times, history etc. Oh but it doesn't have a PC interface. I must have a PC interface I reckon especially as I plan on doing a 50 mile+ walk later this year and wouldn't mind plotting the route.
So I obviously need the Forerunner 201 which has the PC interface. Oh and it's got a Virtual Partner who runs alongside you so you can see how you are performing compared to previous runs. Very nice. It's a bit of slab on your wrist which I don't like and it's £130. Hmmm, what's this at the bottom? Oh people who have looked at this have also looked at:
The Timex Ironman Triathlon Speed and Distance System. Of course I am no tri-athlete but I find it's always worth looking at the next model up to convince you that you are making the right choice. This natty gadget comes with a traditional looking watch that wirelessly connects to the GPS device which can therefore be mounted on your belt or handlebars. Hmm I can even use it on my boat - not that I need to but it does do knots and nauticle miles... It has a night-light feature as well. That's useful. Not useful to me but I am looking for justification to buy this so that I have a normal looking watch on my wrist. Oh and it's water resistant to 50 metres. Hang about, it's a bit pricey isn't it? £220. Hmm well this may be going too far but lets just check out the specification a bit more...
Hang on, it doesn't have a data recorder so I need one of these as well. That's another £53 thanks very much and a third piece of kit to carry around. And they are not in stock anyway. I'm getting a bit fed up with this. Oh and I see that mugs/people who have looked at this item have also looked at:
The Ironman as above but with heart rate sensors. Fantastic - you get an alarm going off when you overdo it. Good job I'm not wired up to it right now! Oh yes, I have to have this, it really is serious stuff...and it's only £275. Add the data recording device and delivery and, and...I think I'll go down to the bike shop.
Well that was interesting - thanks for the link. It seems I am running over 4 miles in 34 minutes which means 8 minute miles - yippee! I think I'd better re-calibrate and check before accepting that though.
Posted by: Grahame at July 10, 2004 03:53 PMhello.
my pedometer was £9.99 i think, so it'll do for now. it's my birthday very soon so you can get me one of those other watches if you like.
how about running (pun intended) a competition to win one. dragoons lucky watches. just like last time.
Posted by: funkypancake at July 12, 2004 03:20 PM