This GPS watch could be your ideal running and training companion, here’s why

Using a GPS watch in Singapore might seem like a case of adopting technology just for the sake of it. Why use a GPS watch when most of us navigate our city-state by finding the nearest MRT station, eatery or shopping mall?

But to discount GPS watches is to ignore their true usefulness as fitness devices. Sure, you could use your mobile phone for tracking fitness stats, but there’s a genuine use-case for GPS watches – hear me out.

WHY GPS WATCHES COULD WORK FOR YOU

Not everyone wants to carry their phones when they’re exercising. You may not want an extra device weighing you down on your run. And you certainly don’t want to be distracted by a phone call when you’re chasing a personal best or handle your phone with sweaty hands.

That’s when GPS watches like the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar, which is currently discounted on Amazon US, come into their own.

Garmin Instinct 2 Solar, 45mm Case, Graphite (S$346.97, Usual Price: S$652)

This rugged watch can shrug off life’s hard knocks, thanks in part to a fibre-reinforced polymer case and scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla glass. It’s also thermal and shock resistant. It’s water-rated to 10 ATMs (atmospheres). Garmin says this is equivalent to a depth of 100m and the watch can be used for activities such as swimming and snorkelling. Its built-in solar cells offer potentially unlimited battery life in smartwatch and GPS mode and it can be paired with compatible smartphones to receive notifications.

• Water-rated to 10 ATMs
• Built-in sports apps offer profiles for sports like swimming, cycling and yoga

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WHY BUY ONE?

If you like to check performance stats like pace or distance covered during your workout, this easily allows you to do so without having to stop or slow down to check your phone. It’s also rated for 10 ATMs, meaning you can wear it into the pool while you’re doing laps.

Since it’s more ruggedly built than a mobile phone and always on your wrist, you’ll be less likely to drop or damage it.

The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar can also help provide an estimate of your overall health by providing information including heart rate, respiration rate and calories burned. While this is not a substitute for a proper health check-up, it can at least provide an overview of how your training programme is paying off.

GET IT IF:

• You don’t want to carry your handphone while exercising
• You want a rugged, go-anywhere device
• You want to easily check performance stats while exercising

The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar works as a rugged fitness device and potentially offers infinite battery life thanks to solar charging. Perhaps best of all, it gives you the option of leaving your mobile phone at home – or at least in your bag – while you’re out pushing your limits.

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