Fitness Trackers for Runners
I’ve used many different watches over the last 10+ years of running. Old Timex’s, Casios, G-Shocks, Apple Watches, Garmins, Coros (newly), and Suuntos.
I’ve gone up and down the ladder of technology multiple times. Phases of high tech super watches then back down to low tech in an attempt to find out what is truly needed at every running level.
There’s pros and cons to either end, now I’m here to share with you my knowledge I’ve gained over the years and dealing with this technology. Whose it for, and what is to gain from it.
I organized this post into types of runners and the watches that would benefit them most.
Types of runners:
Ultramarathon runners. Spend hours in mountains, rugged terrain, far from civilization at times.
Advanced Marathon runners. Someone who runs 50+ miles a week, values the data the watch returns, wears 24/7.
Normal-Intermediate runners. Runs 1-3 races a year of varying distances, usually one marathon a year in the fall, doesn’t chase PRs and cross trains strength in the gym a lot. Goes through “seasons”, where running is on the back burner and other activities jump to the front.
Casual runners. Goes out for a jog a few times a week and run their local 5K Turkey Trot once a year. Enjoys the health data that comes along with the watch, does not need too many features though.