An important part of running, at least if you are serious about it, is making sure your runs are optimized. Hardcore runners like to make sure that they are getting the most out of their training, and data is the key to accomplishing this goal. Garmin has rolled out a new GPS-enabled watch with that in mind. The Forerunner 10 is available now, and it looks to have many of the features runners want.
“The Forerunner 10 provides runners with the most essential data,” is how Garmin defines its latest watch. What is this essential data? How far they ran and how fast they ran are the two key pieces. It will also keep track of personal bests and records. It is hard to know if you are getting better without having the speed and time of previous runs.
While the watch lacks some of the features of higher-end models, the US$129 price tag gives it a broader appeal. Garmin says it designed the Forerunner 10 “for runners who want to simply lace up their shoes, push one button and just run.” It has a few extra features such as Virtual Pacer, which allows runners to compare their current running speed to the speed they should be running at to meet their goal.
For the newer runner, there are training plans that include walk breaks. We cannot all run ten miles with ease, and thankfully, Garmin kept some of us less-than-stellar runners (myself included) in mind.
The watch will display the last seven runs, for you to go back and see how you performed. It will tell you the average, calories burnt, and total time and distance. You can also use Garmin Connect to hook the watch to the computer and download your data. This program is where you will set goals, track totals, access logs, and share your runs with friends and family.
The USB cable used for Garmin Connect is also how you keep the device charged and ready for your next run. Garmin says the device will last for up to five hours of active running and five weeks in power save mode. You can still use the watch to tell time in power save mode, it just does not use any GPS services.
The Forerunner 10 includes an extra sensitive GPS receiver. This means that you should be able to use it while running in a wooded area without losing your signal. It also is water-resistant up to 50 meters (164 feet), if you happen upon some water while running.
The watch is available in three colors, and two of the three are certainly designed to attract attention. Of course, there is black for the runner who is not looking to stand out. For the runner looking to be seen, Garmin also offers the watch in bright green and pink.
It's available now, from Garmin's online store.
Source: Garmin
Check out the video below for more information on the Forerunner 10.