GPS Watch

Wrist-worn device tracking pace, distance, heart rate, and routes. Essential for structured training.

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Understanding GPS Watch

A GPS running watch is the single most useful training tool for endurance athletes. Modern watches track pace, distance, heart rate, elevation, cadence, and route — data that transforms guesswork into precise, structured training.

The market is dominated by Garmin (Forerunner and Fenix lines), COROS (Pace and Apex), Apple Watch (with running features), and Polar (Vantage). Garmin holds the largest market share among serious runners due to its deep training metrics, multi-week battery life, and integration with training platforms like TrainingPeaks and Strava.

Beyond basic tracking, modern watches offer training load analysis, recovery advisors, race predictors, and structured workout execution. They can guide you through interval sessions with pace/HR alerts, track your training stress over weeks, and even estimate your VO2 max. For most runners, a GPS watch replaces the need for a coach's stopwatch.

Key Facts: GPS Watch

Key facts and insights about gps watch that every endurance athlete should know.

Leading brands

Leading brands: Garmin, COROS, Apple, Polar, Suunto

Wrist-based heart rate is 90–95% accurat

Wrist-based heart rate is 90–95% accurate; chest straps are 99%+ accurate

Battery life ranges from 6 hours

Battery life ranges from 6 hours (Apple Watch) to 140+ hours (COROS Vertix 2)

GPS accuracy is typically within 1–3% of

GPS accuracy is typically within 1–3% of actual distance on open roads

Pro Tips: GPS Watch

Start with an entry-level Garmin Forerunner or COROS Pace — you don't need a $600 watch as a beginner

Use heart rate zones for easy runs and pace for workouts and races

Check GPS accuracy by running a known distance (like a certified track) and comparing

Don't obsess over daily data — look at trends over weeks and months for meaningful insights

Frequently Asked Questions About GPS Watch

No. Many runners start with just a phone app (Strava, Nike Run Club). But once you're training for specific goals, a watch makes workouts much easier to execute. The convenience of glancing at your wrist instead of pulling out a phone is significant.

Both are excellent. Garmin has the deeper ecosystem (maps, training features, music, payments) and larger user base. COROS offers similar core features at lower prices with outstanding battery life. For most runners, either brand will serve you well. Try them on for fit and comfort.