A gps for running is not a device simply to prevent you getting lost. It will help you to improve your fitness levels, your running speed as well as monitoring your heart rate to prevent accidental injury.
Some gps units will act as your coach. You can program in certain targets that you are trying to achieve and it will monitor your progress. The heart monitor function allows you to preset the optimum level your heart rate should be and then it will monitor your progress telling you to speed up or slow down as appropriate.
If you are into interval training i.e. where you combine different types of training eg walking and running, you may want to get an interval timer on your gps watch. Some watches offer very colorful fancy looking graphics but as you are trying to get fit or increase your speed, these are likely to be more of a distraction than provide value.
Gps running watches are particularly popular as they leave your hands free. In addition to providing a locating device they will also contain a compass, barometer, altitude alarms and a stop watch.
Some models including those offered by Garmin will act as your virtual running partner. They will tell you if your pace is off or you have reached a certain milestone in your training. You can set certain criteria including distance you want to cover, speed etc. They will also link into your personal computer allowing you to keep a variety of information on your training.
GPS watches come in many different types. Some are geared more for outdoor activity such as those offered by Suunto while Garmin gps running devices are more suited to athletic features. The right gps for running will depend on the type of training you do as well as your budget.
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