ISO: Pedometer, stopwatch recommendations

[KValley]

Okay Runnners!

I've got my training log set up on Runnersworld.com, two new pairs of running shoes (New Balance, one for trails, one for road/treadmill), the completed registration for my first 5K posted on the bulletin board next to my desk; now, I need a good way to track my time/distance.

I have a pedometer that is okay, but because I have to unclip it from my waistband to check my time/distance, it isn't practical for running. I'd really like a watch that does multiple duty.

I'm headed to REI this weekend- any suggestions for brands or what I should be looking for?

TIA- Julie

[This message has been edited by KValley (edited 05-04-2001).]

[emilycat]

Wow; it sounds like you're all set!

I actually have never used a pedometer, so I guess my point in posting this is that you may not actually need one. I used to keep track of exact distance by clocking certain routes in my car; at school, we had running maps that detailed areas all over Chapel Hill, so that was super-convenient. Now, since I'm really familiar with my training pace, I just run for time, and then translate that to a distance. If anything, I probably usually run farther than I think I have (I tend to overdo things sometimes for "insurance." http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif ).

Anyway, I just wanted to give my input -- you don't want to get too hung up on the numbers -- it can start to take the fun out of things. But since you're just starting out, if a pedometer's the only way you'll have to track your distance, it may be a good idea.

[This message has been edited by emilycat (edited 05-04-2001).]

[kima]

Hey Julie!! Could you tell me a little bit about the 5K training program you are following? Is it a plan from Runner's World? Just curious !

[slknight]

I just got a SportBrain for my birthday, and I love it. However, it might not be what you're looking for because you can't check it "real-time" and see where you are. You have to synch it and then check your stats on a webpage.

However, as Emily said, you might not need a new pedometer. Once you have a couple routes you know, and know your training pace, you might be all set.

The SportBrain is pretty neat because you can track your steps, your pace, mileage, etc. My husband and I both have one and see who can get more steps a day. Not only can it make running more interesting, but it encourages us to walk more.

[This message has been edited by slknight (edited 05-04-2001).]

[Dorothy]

Julie, I have a Digiwalker that I like a lot. You can open it while you wear it to check your distance but it won't count steps/distance when it's open but it only takes a second to look. It cost $35 & I bought it through the Digiwalker website. It has a clock & stopwatch feature also. I prefer to wear a watch so I don't have open the pedometer to check the time. I got a Timex sports watch that has a stopwatch feature that cost about $35. You might want to give that a try.

[mandarin2j]

Julie-

I don't know about pedometers, but I had a Timex triathalon watch forever, 'till I finally lost it on a trip last year. That thing was (as DH likes to say) bulletproof. And it had all kinds of neat-o functions. It got me through high school cross country and lasted 10 years after graduation with 1 battery change and 1 wrist strap change. Heck, it probably would still be functioning great if I hadn't left it in Kauai!

As far as pedometers go, you might also want to look into a hand-held GPS. REI has decent ones for about $120, and then you have a great hiking tool to boot (pun intended http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif ). DH and I have been debating the purchase of one ever since our Devil's Peak hike where we had no way of knowing whether we just hadn't gone far enough, or if the lookout cabin (not a tower) was just covered in snow.

Also, I'm pretty sure that you can chart distance by entering your coordinates on accompanying software. If you have a nerd streak in you, this'll probably be tons of fun. My best friend just bought one, and he can't stop going on about all the courses he's plotted out. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/rolleyes.gif

-Amanda

[This message has been edited by mandarin2j (edited 05-04-2001).]

[KValley]

Y'all are so awesome! Thanks for the great suggestions. And Emily, I so appreciate the word of caution about taking this too seriously- it IS about the joy of learning to run, challenging myself, being healthy, not counting numbers! Thanks for bringing me back to earth.

I've got a 5 mile (rt) route on a rails-to-trails trail that I've been using for my run/walk interval, but I need to plot one for a street run. My pedometer should do me well for that until I decide what I want to do about a pedometer/stopwatch.

I'm pretty low-tech- I get frustrated if I have to do too much fussing around- I think the Sportbrain may be too much for my brain http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif! THe Digiwalker sounds similar to what I'm using now...I will take a look at some different models tomorrow! I like the idea of the Timex, Amanda!

Maureen, the runnersworld.com site is terrific- I'm still trying to absorb all of the info. If you pull up http://www.runnersworld.com and click on Getting Started (on the left hand side of the screen) it opens up all manner of wonderful things! Under Training you will find "Training for your first 5K" I've adpated this to my own needs: I'm starting on week 3, because my race is in 6 weeks and I've been doing a run/walk interval program for about a month, so I'm not a complete beginner; the days which it indicates rest or walk/jog I cross train (elliptical machine, stairmaster at the gym, bike riding or hiking outside); the Sunday plan works well because DH and I hike on Sundays.

I'm using the log, as well, which I like except that it doesn't allow for, or I haven't figured out how to add in, exercise other than running. But I guess that would defeat the purpose of a log to track one's running progress. I just want it all to count!!

Okay, gotta run... well, to take a shower, anyhow! THanks again, everybody- I'm printing this page to take with!

[This message has been edited by KValley (edited 05-04-2001).]

[aggie94]

slknight,

My friend LOVES her SportBrain. Her and her husband both have one, and they are ultra-competitive with each other, so it encourages them to get up and walking when they wouldn't otherwise (i.e. taking the stairs, etc.). And it's good accountability for her, since I can get online and check her steps and then email her and say, "Alison -- what happened last yesterday? You were doing so good all week, but then last night, you apparently lamed out and sat home watching Survivor and eating ice cream!"

Julie - you might just check out their webpage for more info and reviews: www.sportbrain.com (http://www.sportbrain.com)
(and REI carries them).