I just ran my 13th marathon last month, and I have never understood the need for all these fancy bells and whistles. Then again, I'm 46 years old, and why don't you get off my lawn?
I run with just a Timex watch (with chronograph) and an iPod Shuffle (with Yurbuds Ironman). Every marathon (and half-marathon) that I have ever run has had mile markers, often with synchronized chronographs. This should be sufficient to recognize if you are falling ahead or behind on your splits.
Most of the time you are going to be training on a familiar path, with known mile markers that can allow you the some convenience. I train either on the running path of my local park, or around the blocks of my neighborhood, and I have these locations well memorized. Laying out a path on Google Earth can help with this.
As far as longevity, the watch will usually last me a good 10-15 years. I did have problem with my iPods dying from sweat exposure, until I also figured out the zip-lock bag method an earlier poster mentioned. I have wanted to try one of the waterproof Shuffles from UnderwaterAudio.com but haven't had the need since using the zip-locks.
Slashdot Mirror
I just ran my 13th marathon last month, and I have never understood the need for all these fancy bells and whistles. Then again, I'm 46 years old, and why don't you get off my lawn?
I run with just a Timex watch (with chronograph) and an iPod Shuffle (with Yurbuds Ironman). Every marathon (and half-marathon) that I have ever run has had mile markers, often with synchronized chronographs. This should be sufficient to recognize if you are falling ahead or behind on your splits.
Most of the time you are going to be training on a familiar path, with known mile markers that can allow you the some convenience. I train either on the running path of my local park, or around the blocks of my neighborhood, and I have these locations well memorized. Laying out a path on Google Earth can help with this.
As far as longevity, the watch will usually last me a good 10-15 years. I did have problem with my iPods dying from sweat exposure, until I also figured out the zip-lock bag method an earlier poster mentioned. I have wanted to try one of the waterproof Shuffles from UnderwaterAudio.com but haven't had the need since using the zip-locks.
Just something to consider. Happy running!