I admit I am not one for too much technology while running. People always ask if I run with music, and my reply is simple. I started running in the era of walkmans the size of my hand. I got used to running without anything from the beginning and frankly, I much prefer the solitude. That being said, technology certainly has come a long way since I started running in the early- cough, cough- 90’s.
Recently I got a Soleus GPS Mini watch to try and downloaded the data with Strava. I figured with training for the TCS New York City Marathon I needed all the help I can get. I also train alone other than my Coach Bob Sevene who rides his bike with me for tempo runs or marathon pace runs. I have to say I kind of like it. It’s been helpful to realize that when I roll out of bed at 5:30am to run, I am not so snappy and need to run a little longer to get the mileage I need.
I am a big believer in running by effort and listening to your body, but it is nice to have some feedback and keep me in check on my easy days. Even though I live by the ocean, it’s pretty hilly around here, so it helps me get more accurate mileage without just estimating. Miscalculating certainly adds up over a 20 mile run, and I like being able to email the data to my Coach. Of course the best part is it seems more accurate than my Garmin when I compared it to a marked out segment on the road. Every second counts!!!
Here’s one of my long, somewhat hilly runs getting ready for the New York City Marathon. I think I earned a lot of doughnuts that day!
