::Emily::

crystal1026

I didn't realize you had a Garmin, which one do you have? How do you like it? Pros/Cons? The only thing I am worried about is it being too bulky, but I am sure its something I will get used to.

I have been debating on this one for a while. I keep watching it, and the price has been dropping for the past two months, pretty soon I need to just suck it up and buy one.

cookiemonster03

I have a 205 (basically the 305 without the heart rate monitor...I don't need more numbers to obsess over). I've had it since winter 08 and it is fabulous (so 3 yrs now, no issues. the software is weird on my mac though...i need to see if there's an upgrade; it worked better on the PC). My only complaint is it takes about 10 minutes to find the satilites if I run in the city (and only by my office; its fine in the park).  It syncs up in 2-3 min at home so I just stretch then.

I admit its kind of bulky but its really not heavy, and once you're moving you REALLY do not notice it. I am much bigger than you, but have freakishly small wrists for my overall size (5 1/2 inches maybe? I can't remember now) and there's still a few holes left to tighten the strap.  I usually put it over my sleeve when its cold out and then you literally never feel it.

I've seen some reviews on the smaller newer ones and they're just not as good...issues with the bezel, with the satalites. And I definately wouldn't get anything that requires a footpod (one of the garmins, and nike+)...too much room for error & hassle with the calibration etc.

I usually use it like an expensive stop watch but I *need* to know my mileage and its nice to just go and not have to pre-plan a route. When I'm training I do speedwork with it once or twice a week. I'm not sure if you'd use those features, but you can program interval workouts and it beeps for you when to start and stop.  Its also nice for tempo runs because there's a screen where you can see your lap pace (which I just discovered, oh, 6 mo ago).

crystal1026

Thank you! I might look more at the 205, b/c really I don't need the heart monitor either. I will be using it just for walking and training (not having to map out a route will be nice!) If I can teach M how to use it it would work really well for when he runs. I have looked at several more expensive ones at the running store, but keep coming back to the Garmins. Like I said, I just need to break down and buy it! Can't really beat the $128 or $109 with free shipping.

cookiemonster03

Its so easy to use - you literally turn it on, wait for the sat link up, and press start! The interval features are pretty intutitive too. And the battery life is good - probably 15 hrs? Its not quite as good now as it was but it is 3 yrs old.

crystal1026

Thank you so much for your review! I am never good when it comes to buying electronic items, and I have over analyze before I buy them! And that you still use and love it 3+ years later, really says a lot!