A running watch provides a variety of benefits to both experienced and new runners. This advanced and stylish technology is more than a simple time tracker, it is a reliable training partner that can help you kick start a more active lifestyle and take your running to the next level.
Precision and accuracy is key when it comes to running watches. Many running and exercise enthusiasts use sports watches to track and monitor their performance and progress. These watches usually come fully equipped with GPS tracking and provide runners with real-time data on speed, distance and elevation. Running watches are also able to track heart rates during different activities and are usually water-resistant, making them perfect for triathlons and running in wet conditions.
In this article, we take a look at how a running watch is able to better your overall performance as you take to the road or trail.
5 ways your running watch can help you better your performance
- Real-time data and tracking for progress tracking
A running watch provides you with real-time stats that you can review as you run. By simply glancing at your wrist, you are able to see how your training is going. And with built in GPS sensors, you are able to record your distance, pace, times and calories burned – providing even greater progress tracking. You are also usually able to change the display to show you exactly what you want to see during your run – adding a more personalised level of progress tracking.
Most running watches also come with customisable alerts, meaning you are able to create and follow a workout to suit your level and your needs. For example, your watch can keep you on track by providing you with alerts for every kilometre/mile that you conquer. You are also able to easily access detailed statistics on your heart rate, pace and distance travelled, making for more in-depth training, motivation and progress tracking. The tracking features of running watches also offer an extra level of safety, ensuring you are able to share your location with friends and family through a wireless connection.
- Your partner in motivation
It can sometimes be difficult to find the motivation to hit the road or trail when you are doing it alone. But with a running watch on your wrist – you never have to be alone. Just like a training partner, a running watch can motivate you to keep going, helping you match or better your performance. Some running watches come with customisable pacers, which means you are able to race against yourself!
A running watch is able to track your personal bests and goals, detailing your progress to encourage you to keep putting in the effort with ease.
- Moving you toward your goals
Every runner should set a goal for themselves – whether it is finishing at a specific time or reaching a specific distance. And a running watch will help you achieve your desired goal. Whatever your goal, whether it be weight loss or performance enhancement, a running watch will guide you toward achieving your goal. For example, you are able to monitor your energy expenditure throughout your run, measure your calorie burn against your calorie intake to help your body-management in a safe and healthy way.
Monitoring your training and tracking the details of your run through your running watch will help you identify exactly where you are at and where you need to be in terms of performance optimisation. You are able to clearly see if you are on track based on real-time data. Some running watches even offer training plans to help you level up your performance and smash your goals. If your goal is to simply get fitter, you can get a running watch that calculates your VO2 max and measure your oxygen consumption – this is a great indicator of your fitness.
- Keep things accurate
There are a variety of running tracking applications on the market and while these offer great insight, a running watch goes beyond these apps. As a watch tracks your performance in real-time, you receive the most accurate readings regarding speed and distance.
Tracking your performance through an app on your phone is also limited by your battery life and of course, these apps zap your data! A battery running watch lasts well between 8 – 20 hours (depending on your model of choice) and ensures you won’t lose information half way through your run.
- Benefits all elements of your life – not just running
Running watches cover a variety of your training needs, from indoor and outdoor training to simple gym sessions. The multi-sport watches are able to track your gym sessions, cycling, golf, walking and a variety of activities. You are also able to personalise fields on your watch to display the information you want to see when taking on a specific activity.
Don’t run or exercise every day? Simply count your steps, monitor your heart rate and keep healthy with a running watch!
In Summary
Whether you are looking to take your running to the next level or you simply want to record and track your activities and health, a running watch will help you stay motivated and achieve your goals.
