Marathon running is a challenging and fulfilling sport that requires rigorous training and dedication. Whether you’re an experienced marathon runner or just starting, a smartwatch can be a valuable tool to track your progress and help you achieve your goals.
But with so many options available in the market, choosing the right smartwatch can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 smartwatches that marathon runners use.
Why Do Marathon Runners Need a Smart Watch?
Marathon running is a highly competitive sport that requires monitoring your progress closely. A smartwatch can help you track your distance, time, and speed accurately. It can also monitor your heart rate and provide you with feedback on your performance. With the right smartwatch, marathon runners can get accurate data on their progress and adjust their training accordingly.
Features to Look for in a Smart Watch for Marathon Runners
When choosing a smartwatch for marathon running, there are several features to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
- Battery Life: Marathon running can take several hours, and you don’t want your smartwatch to run out of battery mid-race.
- Durability: A marathon runner needs a smartwatch that can withstand tough conditions and wear and tear.
- Water Resistance: A water-resistant smartwatch can withstand sweat, rain, and splashes during the race.
- GPS Navigation: A GPS-enabled smartwatch can help marathon runners track their route and avoid getting lost.
Top 5 Smart Watches for Marathon Runners
1. Garmin Forerunner 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is the latest smart watch to add a heart rate monitor to your running routine. The watch also features a VO2 max measurement, which measures how well your body processes oxygen. You can choose to use this feature to track your performance during a marathon or a shorter race. The more oxygen you consume during an event, the higher your VO2 max score will be.
The Forerunner 235 is available for under PS300 (£240), AU$469 ($500), and PS270 ($420). The watch features a 1.3-inch touchscreen and weighs a mere 1.5 ounces. It has a larger battery and a bigger display, which makes it more convenient to use for marathon runners. In addition to GPS, the Forerunner 235 is also compatible with heart rate chest straps.
The Forerunner 235 is compatible with the ANT+ chest strap for accurate heart rate readings. You can use the ANT+ chest strap to pair the device with other ANT+ devices. To pair the watch with an ANT+ chest strap, press and hold the button while holding the chest strap close to your wrist. Once connected, you can begin sharing your heart rate data with other ANT+ devices.
The 235 is an excellent choice for marathon runners. The watch has advanced mapping features, accurate GPS tracking, and an enormous battery powered by solar power. It also supports running workouts, including intervals and timed races. In addition to its GPS, this smart watch lets you control your music, manage notifications, and create training routes. There are also a host of watch faces and apps that help you stay motivated throughout the race.
2. Polar Grit X
For those running marathons, the Polar Grit X is an excellent smart watch for tracking your run. Its battery life is up to seven days under normal usage, and the device can last up to 100 hours when in full GPS tracking mode. The watch has different power modes for different sports, and it has a convenient feature to switch between sports in the middle of the run. This feature can make the experience even better, as it provides useful insights in real time.
The Polar Grit X features a built-in heart rate monitor, and can pair with a chest strap for accurate heart-rate readings. It uses optical and skin-contact sensors to provide a reliable and consistent pulse reading. This is helpful when doing zone training because the watch can record unrealistic spikes in heart rate during intense exercise. The built-in heart-rate sensor makes it possible to track your heart rate with more precision than other watches.
The Polar Grit X offers a variety of training tracking features and support for users who are off-grid. Its powerful GPS and optical heart rate sensor allow you to track virtually any activity. Its lightweight design is another positive. It’s easy to set up and can keep track of 130 sports. It can be used to measure heart rate and pace during exercise, and you can also use it to see how far you’ve gone.
The Polar Grit X smart watch is not the best option for everyone. The battery life is poor and it isn’t waterproof. In addition to measuring your heart rate, the Polar Grit X also logs your route. It also offers a dedicated app called Komoot. This app is essential if you plan on using the Polar Grit X for marathon running. But it’s not enough for everyone. You might need GPS for this, and that’s why you should consider investing in another smart watch for marathon running.
3. Polar Ignite fitness watch
The Polar Ignite is a multi-sport GPS watch with an ultra-slim design and an optical heart rate sensor. When used for running, it tracks your speed, distance, and route. Its battery lasts for five days in watch mode and seventeen hours in training mode. The Ignite’s FitSpark software analyzes your data and provides personalized training plans. You can choose from a wide range of workouts, including one-week training plans. The watch features a graphical interface with pre-loaded daily workouts, which makes it easy to get acquainted with your own fitness journey.
The Polar Ignite 45 is easy to use and synchronizes with Strava and Apple Health. However, it cannot sync with other fitness trackers, such as Runtastic and Runkeeper. It can be charged via USB or via a computer. A USB connection is required to charge the watch. While synchronizing with a laptop, you can also use the Polar Ignite to track your heart rate and distance.
The Polar Ignite’s compact screen and lightweight design make it comfortable to wear 24 hours a day. It also features a high battery life and allows you to use the device while swimming. Another feature that makes it ideal for marathon runners is the ability to track recovery and training intensity. Its heart rate sensor is accurate and gives you a clear picture of how hard you are working. However, you may have to set the maximum heart rate manually in some models.
Although the Polar Ignite is designed for marathon runners, it is not an ideal fit for recreational runners. It is slightly too big and does not have an adjustable strap, but it is comfortable enough. The screen has a square design that allows you to see more metrics. It can show your run summary and all the data at once if you pause. The GPS was quick and accurate enough to enable the watch to work. The only drawback is the lack of customization options and the app, which feels cluttered and outdated.
4. Coros’s Vertix 2
The latest model in the Coros lineup, the Vertix 2, supports dual-frequency satellite communication. This means that it can access all five of the major satellite systems simultaneously. As such, it promises highly accurate GPS tracking even in extreme environments. It’s not known what kind of accuracy Coros can claim, but the Vertix looks promising. It’s definitely a smart choice if you want to stay on course while running or biking.
The Coros Vertix 2 has a bigger screen, making it easier to read notifications. The memory-in-pixel LCD is also highly visible, especially in sunlight. Compared to competitors in this price range, the Vertix has built-in music. Although not flawless, it’s an important feature for a nearly-$1000 smart watch. Nonetheless, the Coros Vertix 2’s performance is still far ahead of many rivals.
The battery life on the Coros Vertix 2 is excellent. With dual-band “all systems” GPS, the watch can be used for up to 140 hours, about 60 days, compared to Garmin’s Enduro’s 90 hours. It can last even longer if you switch to UltraMax GPS mode, which uses the GPS radio for bursts every 120 seconds. However, if you’re more into endurance activities, the Coros Vertix 2 is not for you.
COROS Vertix 2 has a third smartphone display that allows you to see COROS EvoLab data, workout programs, training plans, and navigation routes library. You can also use third-party applications like Google Maps on the third screen. Besides the built-in GPS, the Vertix 2 is also compatible with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. A good fitness tracker will be an invaluable asset to your lifestyle.
5. Apple Watch
Apple Watch is the most popular wearable in the world, but what about runners? How many of you have worn one or even used one? What is the advantage of wearing a connected fitness watch over a regular watch? Marathon runners typically do not have to be in a constant state of alert. During a marathon, a smartwatch is an essential accessory. But how do marathon runners use it? What features do marathon runners appreciate?
The Apple Watch has many useful features for runners. It can be paired with an external heart rate monitor. It can also track multiple metrics during an outdoor run, including average pace and elevation gain. The Apple Watch will also let you customize the interface of the Workout app on your phone. It also lets you view and analyze your progress over time, which is useful for serious marathon runners. But if you’re not a serious marathon runner, this device isn’t for you.
During the race, athletes can see their heart rates on the Apple Watch and compare them with heart rate monitors on their chests. The Garmin Vantage M2 can help marathon runners with fuelling. It tracks the work performed while running and alerts you when you need to eat more carbohydrates. It can also help athletes with training programs. Its heart rate data is accurate and reliable. The Apple Watch also allows marathon runners to adjust the settings and customize the watch.
Another benefit of using an Apple Watch is its battery life. Even when not in range of an iPhone, it will still sync content on the Apple Watch. The Apple Watch can be used for other tasks such as listening to music, answering texts, and accessing Siri. During long distance runs, a user can conserve battery life by turning off cellular data and Always On display. The Apple Watch also keeps your watch’s battery life longer than a standard smartwatch.
FAQs
Can I use my smartphone instead of a smartwatch for marathon running?
While you can use your smartphone to track your progress during a marathon run, it’s not recommended. Smartwatches are more convenient because they’re designed to be worn on your wrist, which means you can track your progress without having to carry your phone.
Do I need to spend a lot of money on a smartwatch for marathon running?
You don’t necessarily need to spend a lot of money on a smartwatch for marathon running, but it’s important to invest in a quality smartwatch with the necessary features.
Can I listen to music on my smartwatch during a marathon run?
Yes, many smartwatches allow you to store and play music or podcasts during a marathon run.
Conclusion
When choosing a smartwatch for marathon running, it’s important to look for features such as GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, water resistance, and long battery life.
With the right smartwatch, marathon runners can track their progress accurately and achieve their goals.
