Worth Every Penny

By Andrew Brandt Ranked #46 - Trail Running Accessories November 13, 2008

A hiker can live without a GPS by using a compass and map. A runner can live
without a GPS watch by using a digital watch and a known course. That being
said, the Forerunner 205 provides insane amounts of data, which can take a person's training to a new level.

I have yet to scratch the surface of this unit's functionality. To date I've mainly used it for distance, pace and time for running and biking and even just with those functions the 205 is worth the price (though I did grab it on sale!) Simply being able to have an accurate real-time pace is a powerful tool in running/biking. No more waiting for mile markers on a course to find out if you've blown your pace! The 205 made it possible for me to run the Twin Cities Marathon as I was able to set my own paces and not have to hang with a set pace group. There are alternative electronic devices, but their edge in lower cost is trumped by calculating distance by footfall, something which can constantly change--and if they're linked to an Ipod, good luck using that in an official race!

The 205 does have navagation as well, but this would really only help with Point A to Point B or Trackback, we're not talking maps here. Also while larger than your average watch, it would only become ungainly if you are are super petite, and even then it won't be a burden. Besides you don't buy something like this for fashion. The 305 includes a heart rate monitor, but I've never been into that form of training, so 205 worked perfectly for me.

Long story short, if you've got the scratch and are looking to invest in something that will transform your training regime hesitate no longer!

View Details: Garmin Forerunner 205 GPS

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