When you’re starting your running journey, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the range of tools available to track your progress. Running watches, apps, and gadgets promise to take your training to the next level, but the question is: are they really necessary for beginners? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of GPS watches and running apps, help you decide whether they are worth the investment, and offer suggestions for affordable options.
What’s the Big Deal with Running Watches and Apps?
Running watches and apps can track all kinds of data, such as your distance, pace, time, heart rate, and even your route. For more seasoned runners, this data can be extremely helpful in refining training and tracking progress. However, for a beginner, these tools might feel unnecessary or even overwhelming. Ultimately, whether or not you need one comes down to your goals, preferences, and the type of running experience you're looking for.
For those just starting out, it can be tempting to think that you need the latest technology to keep up with your progress, but it’s important to remember that running can be simple, enjoyable, and effective without all the gadgets. If your primary goal is to build consistency and enjoy your runs, you can absolutely get by without a GPS watch or running app.
The Pros of Running Watches and Apps
While they may not be essential for everyone, there are some benefits to using running watches and apps. Here are a few reasons why some beginners may find them useful:
- Tracking Progress: Watches and apps allow you to track your runs, helping you see improvements over time. For beginners, this can be encouraging and motivating as you witness your pace improve and distance grow.
- Pacing and Goal Setting: Running watches, especially those with GPS, allow you to set specific goals, such as running a 5K distance or hitting a particular pace. This can be especially helpful if you’re training for a goal event, like a parkrun or a charity race.
- Motivation: Many apps come with features like badges, challenges, and social connections that keep you motivated. If you enjoy the social aspect of fitness, being able to share your runs and compete with friends can add an extra layer of enjoyment.
- Convenience: GPS watches are particularly helpful for tracking your route if you like running in different locations. They provide you with instant data on your pace and distance, making it easy to adjust your effort in real time.
- Safety Features: Some running watches come with built-in safety features like a heart rate monitor or emergency alerts, which can be reassuring for runners who like to train alone.
The Cons of Running Watches and Apps
While there are clear benefits, there are also some downsides to using running watches and apps, particularly for beginners:
- Overwhelm and Distraction: It’s easy to become consumed by the data when using running watches or apps. Constantly checking your pace or distance can take away from the pure joy of running. Beginners may find that this focus on data leads to unnecessary stress or frustration.
- Cost: High-end GPS watches and fitness trackers can be expensive, and if you're just starting out, this might not be the best investment. For beginners, it’s often better to focus on building your routine and enjoying your runs before diving into the world of expensive gadgets.
- Over-Reliance on Technology: It’s important to remember that you don’t need technology to measure your success. Some runners find that relying too much on technology takes away from the intrinsic satisfaction of completing a run based solely on how it feels.
- Battery Life and Maintenance: GPS watches and apps can eat up battery life quickly, especially when using features like continuous GPS tracking. Some users find themselves constantly charging their devices, which can be a hassle for runners who like to get out without any extra preparation.
Affordable Running Watches and Apps for Beginners
If you're considering trying a running watch or app, there are plenty of options available that don’t break the bank. Here are some beginner-friendly suggestions:
- Smartphone Apps:
- Strava: One of the most popular apps among runners, Strava allows you to track your runs, share them with friends, and join challenges. It offers a free version that provides all the basic tracking features.
- Nike Run Club: This app offers personalised coaching plans, running challenges, and real-time tracking of distance, pace, and time, all for free.
- Runkeeper: Runkeeper tracks your runs with a simple interface, offering free and paid versions. The free version includes basic run tracking features, while the premium version adds training plans and detailed stats.
- Couch to 5K (C25K): If you’re using a Couch to 5K plan, this app is a great tool to guide you through the program. It has audio cues for each run/walk interval, so you can focus on the task at hand.
- Affordable Running Watches:
- Garmin Forerunner 165: This is a great entry-level GPS watch that provides tracking for runs, heart rate, and even sleep, all at an affordable price. We reviewed it previously here
- Fitbit Charge 5: This fitness tracker offers GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and other key features at a lower price point than many higher-end running watches.
- Coros Pace 3: For a budget-friendly GPS watch that’s both lightweight and offers a good range of features, including heart rate monitoring and pace tracking, the Coros Pace 3 is a solid option. We reviewed previously here
Tips for Using Running Watches and Apps Without Getting Overwhelmed
For beginners, the key is to use these tools as a helpful guide rather than a constant source of stress. Here are some tips on how to keep things simple:
- Set One Goal at a Time: Instead of tracking every single metric, focus on one goal at a time. For example, you could set a goal to simply run 3 times a week or aim to run your first 5K without worrying about pace.
- Limit Data Checking: Avoid checking your watch or app every minute. Instead, focus on your surroundings, your body, and your enjoyment of the run.
- Use a Basic Function: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you can always start by using basic features like distance and time. Most apps and watches have easy-to-access screens for this.
- Turn Off Notifications: To avoid getting distracted by constant updates or reminders, switch off non-essential notifications in your apps or on your watch.
But Do You Really Need a Running Watch or App?
Ultimately, whether or not you need a running watch or app comes down to your personal goals. If you're looking for motivation, data tracking, or just want to set goals, these tools can be helpful. However, if you prefer to run without the pressure of constantly monitoring your progress, you can still get great results without relying on technology. Remember, running is about enjoying the process, and the best tools are the ones that make you feel comfortable, motivated, and excited to get out there every week.
Next Week
Next Monday, we’ll look at Building the Habit & How to Stay Consistent. Join us as we discuss strategies for forming a running routine, including scheduling runs, dealing with weather, and finding motivation on tough days.