GPS watches v Mobile Apps & 10 things to do while waiting for your GPS to connect to satellite

 

Hi Everyone

We recently asked EHM runners what their preferred way of tracking/mapping a run was. On the whole we got positive responses from people using very specialised and expensive Garmin type watch devises, with a similar positive responses coming from people using budget mobile phone apps.

The technology driving both sides of the fence is in essence the same. Both reliant on a strong GPS signal.

So what’s giving you more value for money?

As with many comparison tests (see our previous treadmill v outdoors running blog) the amount of info available on the internet is never ending. The pros and cons, the lovers and haters are in abundance so here is a no nonsense round up of views direct from the runEHM face book page and some geeky techy advice from an expert. 

Just for fun we have put up 10 things you can do while you wait for your device to connect to the satellite. This comes from Born To Plod

We will pop some links up at the end of this blog for you to visit in your GPS quest.

Let’s kick off with the expert

After surfing our way through reviews and making a few calls we came up with this.

Quite surprisingly the expert advice almost mirrors the common sense view. Jeff Fisher who is an ultra marathon runner and all round tech geek had this to say about the great GPS debate.

Think of it in terms of buying new running shoes or if you’re after a mobile app then buying a good insole (although mobile apps can be downloaded for free). You should be looking at investing in the best from your budget and then try to squeeze the retailer for a good deal. Shop around as the best bargains are to be had on the internet. Garmin are leaders in GPS mapping for runners but don’t discount the competition from the likes of Nike, Timex and Polar. For apps you should be looking at MapMyRun or Endomondo, these two offering the best performance on both Android and Apple platforms.

Ask yourself these questions......

Will it vibrate at programmed interval miles?

Be waterproof?

Track elevation?

Is the battery life good?

Auto share to social network pages?

User friendly?

Online support / Community?

Motivating features?

Will it make your run more fun?

Result in increased performance?

You may have your own requirements as to what features you find important, whatever that is you will find a device that can offer it. Do some research and visit online run forums where you will find loads of chatter and reviews about devices on the market today.

 

Runners comments from the Facebook group page runEHM Facebook

Our brilliant fans over on our Facebook page had this to say.

Jenna Taylor I use mapmyrun, only because that's what my friend uses, and it's free!!!, I like the look of that what Tony Carroll uses tho! (It was an Endomondo mobile app)

 Alli Marshall Father Christmas bought me a Garmin Forerunner 410, I upload all my runs into Strava.

 

Debbie Millington Garmin Forerunner 110.

 

English Half Marathon Endomondo for me but I'm getting a bit miffed with it. Thinking of ungrading to a Garmin.

 

Jenny McClelland Garmin Forerunner 110 and i love it

 

Ste Hughes Garmin 310

 

English Half Marathon Ohh great, Garmin users Jenny McClelland and Ste Hughes. Could you let us know if you think they're worth the investment for runners? Taking it Jenny you like yours!

 

Lisa Fothergill My sis in law has the Garmin forerunner 410 - says its brill - tho i need my phone for music so have to stick with an app on there (nike+ at the mo)

 

Dave Hep Mapmyrun keeps getting better every year and its very detailed.

 

Rob Evans Garmin 410 - worth every penny. I also load runs up to endomondo.

 

Evonne Hazlehurst I have a garmin 205 looking to upgrade as want HR monitor. How's the 410 heard alot about the bezel. I sometimes use phone aswell how few apps sports tracker I quite like !!!

 

Adam Tregaskis endomondo. works well and most of my friends use it too. especially like the 'beat yourself' function...

 

Jason X Hearne Nike at the minute but I'm hoping to switch to Garmin in April.

 

English Half Marathon Brilliant feedback from everyone, cheers. We will put a blog out about some apps and Garmins, great stuff, thanks a lot!

 

Alan Grehan Garmin 610. Can't rate it highly enough. You can even programme it to guide you through custom interval sessions.

 

Darren Cunliffe Garmin 910xt, awesome piece of kit!

 

English Half Marathon Good mix of app and Garmin users. We will put a blog together and round up the best of the best for everyone!

 

Claire Hawthorne Nike running

 

Kevin Thomas Miller I've got a Garmin Forerunner 305

 

English Half Marathon Forerunner's looking a popular one. Any other makes other than Garmin?

 

Denise Zachariasz Was Morley Runtastic pro on iPhone it's brill

 

Hayley Cash runkeeper

 

Paul Scully Garmin 310XT - the orange thing. Have issues with their premium heart strap though. First one went faulty after 6 mths which Garmin replaced - 12 mths on and that one I'd failing. Garmin aren't interested. I also use sportstrack - think that is what it is called

 

English Half Marathon interesting customer service seams poor in your case Paul.

 

Paul Scully Aye - it's a well known issue if you Google it but they denied it. They even suggested I wear cotton tees instead of tech tees - that made me fume and chuckle at the same time!

 

English Half Marathon What an odd thing to ask you to do, they will be saying run backwards next, eyes closed haha

 

We find the comment regarding the lack of customer service from Garmin quite a worry. We did a little net surfing about this and it did result in some negative reviews about how they deal with customers. Our advice would be to buy as local as possible if this concerns you. That way you can doorstep the retailer if you have any issues and make them deal with the problem.

 

Some fun stuff - 10 things to do while your Garmin connects to the satellite

 

1. Wonder how the GPS in your mobile phone or in-car satnav can lock on in a matter of moments. Decide to write a stern letter to your MP about it.

2. Whisper into it while glancing around in a furtive manner, so everyone thinks you’re some sort of secret agent.
Seriously, they’ll totally think that.

3. Alphabetise your gels.

4. Do a thorough all-body warm-up while at the same time trying to hold your wrist absolutely still.

5. Gaze thoughtfully up at the sky as if you fully expect to see the satellites, so that you can then make minute adjustments to your position, thereby speeding the whole process along a bit. Every single one of you has done this at some point.

6. Boil an egg.
…assuming of course that you’ve got a pan of boiling water handy.
…and an egg.
(Once it’s boiled to perfection, just throw it away. No time to stand around eating eggs like some sort of fancy la-di-dah egg-eater; there’s running to be done!)

7. Write to the letters page of Runner’s World magazine, demanding that they print more articles about puppies.

8. Stand absolutely still, staring blankly ahead, arms held down by your sides. Then, when your watch beeps to signal that it’s locked on, spring to life and start running. Everyone will think you’re a robot.

9. Write a quick blog post, in which you suggest ten things to do while waiting for your Garmin to lock onto satellites.

10. Just ignore the watch and run anyway. Okay, now I’m just being silly.

* Other GPS watches are, of course, available. But none are quite so Garminny.

 

 

In conclusion

 

Garmin do seam to be ahead of the pack with what they can offer. They have a good range which are priced to fit most people budgets. Mobile phone app users can road test a few because many are free. Once you have found one you like then buy the app, this will stop pop-up adverts from swamping your mobile. Endomondo which we think is one of the best mobile apps on the market is about £4, very cheap.

 

GPS watches do come out on top when rating them against mobile phones apps. They just work better, it's as simple as that. As you would expect the features are more in-depth and because it's a dedicated device then you don't have the problem of draining the battery on your mobile or exposing it to changeable weather conditions.

 

So without going into a huge amount of detail we hope this has just got your mind ticking and asking yourself some important questions. As promise, below are some great links to get you started searching for the perfect GPS.

 

Can Apps and GPS watches really make you run faster?

 

Runners Needs Online Retailer

 

Running Apps for you mobile - USA site

For more information on The Spire Health Care English Half Marathon please visit runEHM Facebook

Spot The Difference! 20 To Find!

GOOD LUCK FINDING ALL OF THEM!

 

ORIGINAL POSTER

 

 

 

MISSING ELEMENTS POSTER

 

 

Free Group Run Training Sessions

Enter the 2013 English Half Marathon Enter Here

A little more on the great debate -Treadmill V Outdoors Running

Hello and thanks for dropping by. This blog was inspired by some of the chatter on our Facebook group page. The never ending debate, treadmill versus outdoor running. It's just a round-up of what was a very interesting topic.

As with most things in life, personal preference really has the final word on this matter.  But is it as clear cut as we may think it is? In general terms you would think the outdoor advocates would win this debate hands down but not so. We asked our runners for their thoughts  and it brought up some interesting comment.

As expected, for most people being outdoors is enough reason not to want their running any other way. It would seem the romantic notion of feeling nature’s elements (either good or bad) is still something our primitive selves cannot resist.

A favourite quote from one of our runners, “the treadmill has no soul, and it lacks everything that’s important about running, freedom”.  We agree and so did most of our other runners. Connecting with the outdoors was everything.

So, where does this leave the treadmill argument?  From the feedback we got it comes down to necessity.  It could be a specific training need, the weather, a family commitment, work or rehab that leads someone to use the treadmill over the great outdoors. Reading our runners views made it clear that for some, it was a life-line to running and without it the miles would stop.

As you can imagine the academic evidence for both side of the debate is very in-depth and dare we say, a little boring. It’s a mind-field of stats and graphs followed by even more stats and graphs!

In the world of sports science this is fantastic but in the real world we think runners, your everyday plodder really doesn’t care.

Laura Andrus wrote on our Facebook page, I love the treadmill. I'm asthmatic and the cold is a BIG trigger. I wouldn't be able to train right now if it weren't for my belted friend :-)

Here are some more quotes from the runners on Facebook. We asked the question.

Fresh snow is falling which does bring up the great debate 'Outdoors v Treadmill' Do you have a love / hate relationship with the Treadmill? Can we please have your comments on this subject. The pros / cons / tips / advice / experiences from both side of the fence.
 
 

 

Ben North Outdoors!

Colin Rowlands Outdoors, regardless of weather.

Sharon Quinn Outdoors unless its icy! Been out in the snow today it was fab

Elly Roberts Outdoors every time - I use trail shoes in the snow & run more slowly, add another layer if need be

English Half Marathon Fantastic point Laura. This must be quite a common problem if you're asthmatic

Sam Grange As a mum I run on both treadmill and outdoors, including trail running. I had to train for my first half marathon using the treadmill alone due to childcare issues. Nothing beats running outside, and the treadmill can't replicate this with HR etc and weather conditions; however, the treadmill does have it place for 'whipping' your butt.. once you've set that speed there's no stopping, there's no slowing down to cross roads, to get your breath etc, it also gives you a tougher mind, as running on a treadmill can be soul destroying at times, especially counting down the minutes/miles . I much prefer doing intervals on the treadmill as it works me far harder than I would work myself. As much as I hate the 'dreadmill' I wouldn't want to be without mine :)

English Half Marathon Ben & Colin outdoors it is for you!

Colin Rowlands Hehe Sam - I've been listening to the Marathon Talk podcasts and that's the 2nd reference to 'dreadmills' in an hour!

Rach Mairs Treadmill at the min because I'm 6 months pregnant n can't risk running in the snow, generally tho it's got to be out doors for me .

English Half Marathon Fantastic info for our other runners from Sam & Rach. Seams its not as clear cut as for the reasons which side of the fence people sit, if indeed any side!

Kelly Lou I don't mind treadmill on occasions but I do find I get bored really easily but running outside is a BIG yes for me, if you do a route more than once you get different view with the different weather.

Jack Pilkington Outdoors, The treadmill is too boring and you get too hot and it's just not nice running no where. Running outdoor you get a mix of scenery and a firm breeze to keep you cool.

Jenna Taylor I like both, I started on a treadmill doing the c25k, I wouldn't have done it myself outdoors as I needed the treadmill to keep my pace and accurately measure my time and distance. I went on the treadmill last night and set it at an incline to train for the Sunday jog ( them hills are a killer) but the freedom of outdoors is great, the changing scenery and keeping your mind alert for obstacles ect, also the actually jogging seems easier, I cant walk in a straight line let alone jog so on a treadmill I feel enclosed and like I'm gonna crash in the side of it! If I'm on my own I need a treadmill to keep me goin, if a friend is with me I prefer outdoors!

Rob Carson Treadmill in the gym is so boring i can barely run a mile before i get off. Much prefer outside where i can happily run along in wind....rain....sun

Baz Aveyard I like the treadmill especially in poor weather at 51 I can't afford broken bones from falling on the ice

English Half Marathon Bringing up lots of personal accounts where the treadmill works or is just a no no for our runners. Very impressed how the people who use them are doing to to combat something. Its showing that the important factor is, you keep on running the best you can. Massive thumbs up to that! As we expected though, people just love being outdoors and the freedom that brings :) Keep the views coming in.

Janet Caldwell Outdoors with my friends .. ;) Can't beat it !!! However.....
Dreadmill on bad weather days .. Not too bad as my view is farmers fields ... :)

Jack Pilkington Also, treadmills are easy to fall off...

Sarah Lewis A treadmill at home is a God send when you have young children. Outside will always win hands down, but when it's the difference between running and not running, I know which I prefer.

Claire Hawthorne Treadmill ok when it's dark and I don't like running alone, can manage 10k on it! Prefer the roads and fresh air though, that hill last Sunday knackered my knee! :-( or maybe it was too much too soon 18 miles that week after 4 months out! I will attempt again! :-)

Paul Redmond Ground isn't undulating on a treadmill, can't beat outside and u avoid the dreaded air con which tends to recirculate all sorts of bacteria, fresh air and hills we love.

Chris Salkeld Outdoors every time! Even the cold, snow, ice, rain etc is infinitely better than the monotonous drone of the treadmill

English Half Marathon Weather is a big factor it seams. Also people who have children but need to keep up with their miles. Brilliant insight!

Lisa Fothergill Love the great outdoors, no faffing around driving to the gym, finding a parking space, getting inside (after rooting around in the car for £1 for the locker) before you even get on the treadmill - just open front door and off you go!!! Used to do 8 miles on treadmill then moved to Warrington and took a quick road run and never looked back since!
 
 

2013 English Half Marathon Route Guide

Welcome to the English Half Marathon route guide. We hope this gives you a good insight into the course. Sit back, enjoy then run!

You can now sign up for the 2013 race at RUN EHM WEB

This years route is unchanged from 2012.

English Half Marathon 2013 Entries Now Open!

 

Here is the all important link to enter ENTER ENGLISH HALF MARATHON

 

The Spire Healthcare English Half Marathon, Victoria Park, Warrington

Sunday 8^th September 2013 - Race start 09.00

Hello everyone and welcome to the 2013 Spire Healthcare English Half Marathon

It’s with much excitement that we can now announce entries for this year’s race are now open!

Over the past few years the English Half Marathon has become one of the must do events on every runners calendar. The race attracts runners from all over the country, with some even making the trip from overseas. From club runners to avid social runners and for people who just love to lace up and put some miles in, this race is one of the ‘must enter’ events of the year.

Not only that, we also have our fair share of charity runners and first timers all putting in 100% effort to complete the 13.01 miles course. This year will see even more first time half marathon runners entering, remember the English Half Marathon route is one of the flattest of all half marathons in the county and as it takes you through rural south Warrington it’s also one of the prettiest.

This year we will be working hard with local charities and new runners to make sure everyone gets the most out of the race. We have already started to this via our connections with other locally organised running groups and charities plus our very own RunEHM training runs. They take place every Sunday from Victoria Park Warrington where the start / finish line will be on race day. Not forgetting it’s also where our fantastic race village is based every year,  keeping everyone entertain during race day.

Entering the race could not be easier. Just follow the link to our web page, fill in your details and ‘let’s get running’!

Take a look at our posters that will be on all of our social networking pages and keep an eye open for them down at your local gym etc. This year we plan to spread the word far and wide that the English Half Marathon is back for 2013, bigger and better than ever.

Please feel free to pop our posters up on your own page. Share with friends, family and work colleagues. Inspire people to enter and lets all look forwards to another great race day.

Don’t forget our early bird offer, sign up today and take advantage of the great discounts we have during February. Remember this is an event for everyone let’s make 2013 the year you said ‘yes’ to entering The Spire Healthcare English Half Marathon.

Here is the all important link to enter ENTER ENGLISH HALF MARATHON

Good Luck

RunEHM

Rediscover your motivation

 

Rediscover your motivation using these tips. They are part of a proven system that really does help you achieve your goals and get you fitter. So, make 2013 your very best year yet.

Remember, if you make it specific to a running goal it is really effective, from your first 5k event to a marathon.

1. Become really clear on your motivation

Write down all the reasons why you are aiming to complete this goal, and next to the reason – why this is important to you and how this makes you feel – all stated in the positive. Then highlight the top three motivators and pin them somewhere to keep you focused, and to remind you when motivation is low.

N.B. It is important to write things down as this will clarify things in your mind and make things a reality.

2. Make a plan that works for you and stick to it

Write down the amount of time you are going to allow each week to reach your goal and then plan it in your diary, just like an appointment to make sure you do it. Make sure you discuss the plan with your close family and friends so they support and encourage you.

3. Make yourself accountable with two people & believe in yourself

Once you have a clear plan, motivation and positive focus tell two people what you are planning to do, how you would like to feel and how they could support you. By sharing things with people you are much more likely to achieve your goal, and enjoy the process. Choose people who will be positive and encouraging in their support to you.

4. Keep a feel good diary as well as a training diary, and use positive self-talk

Write down three positive things that have happened each day for at least 21 days. You will be surprised by how this changes your focus and makes you focus on the positive things around you. It will help to dissolve stress before you sleep too.

If you are really stressed about something, write this down first with a plan around how you can resolve this. Often people will notice a pattern of things that make them feel good. Make sure you surround yourself with people who make you feel good!

5. Have clear goals yet be flexible and listen to your body

It is really important that you have clear goals so you have a path to follow, yet with that you have the flexibility to change if things come into your life that are unplanned!.

Combined with this, look after your body and mind, eat good food, have quality sleep and a balance of focus on your goals, combined with relaxation and fun time.

6. Surround yourself with positive people and act as if…

A really important tip is to choose two or three people who inspire and motivate you in a really positive way. For instance, you may admire confidence, fun and self-belief as qualities in different people, and wish you felt a bit more like this.

To achieve this, all you have to do, is begin to ‘Act as If’ – it sounds simple, and people don’t believe it will work but, if you choose to switch your focus and start to act a tiny bit more say ‘confident’ (or less unconfident is sometimes easier to start with) it will begin to happen. Trust me! Watch how they behave, listen to what they say, and try to imagine what it would feel like to be in their body – then‘act as if’ you did have these qualities.

It can be a famous athlete, a club runner you know, a celebrity or a friend – it doesn’t even have to be someone you know – just a quality you would like more, and a person who represents that quality. Then surround yourself with positive friends and family who will help you move towards your goals.

7. Create a clear, positive outcome and vision board for your BIG GOAL!

Take a big sheet of coloured paper (if you don’t have any, go out and buy a piece) and write in the middle “How will I make my Big Goal …….. Happen by …….” Then write down, cut out photos, pictures, words etc. all around it of the things you need and want to happen, from feelings to achievements, wealth to fun. Have no limits to your board, and every time you find something that motivates you, add to the board! Put it up somewhere you will see daily, it really will help keep you motivated and focused.

Cheers EHM