» Garmin Forerunner 301, 201 and 101 Wristband GPS Fitness Training Aids

Garmin’s Forerunner 301, 201 and 101 are compact wristband GPS personal training devices sharing mostly identical features. While not as attractive as the more wristwatch like form factor Garmin Forerunner 305 and 205, those serious about their training will appreciate the larger display screen which makes it easier to pick up displayed statistics while running or cycling. The units are still reasonably light despite the larger size. While particularly useful for runners the Forerunner units are also applicable cycling, hiking, and other training activities where monitoring/logging your distance, speed and heart are important.

All three 01 model Forerunners have a SiRF III GPS receiver which has high sensitivity for locking and holding onto GPS satellite signals in weak reception areas under foliage and in built-up areas. To maximize signal reception Garmin have wrapped the antenna around part of the wrist band.

Both the Forerunner 301 and 201 are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries with a healthy 15 hour charge life. The Forerunner 101 takes two AAA batteries. As they are likely to be worn in wet weather and subjected to considerable perspiration the units are waterproof. However, they have limited depth capability and are not suitable for wearing while swimming.

To provide flexibility in setting up customized training programs the Forerunner units have numerous training support functionalities including:

• Advanced workouts (create custom, goal-oriented workouts): (301 only)
• Interval training (set up exercise and rest intervals):
• Pace alert (triggers alarm if you vary from preset pace):
• Time/distance alert (triggers alarm when you reach goal):

Training is all about feedback and both Forerunners allow you to collect performance data as each training session is stored in memory to review or analyze at a later time. Training goals can be set using accurate data on your past performances. The Forerunner 305 and Forerunner 205 both have three main display screens including some twelve data fields for instant feedback while training.

For analysis and review after exercise Garmin provide their free Garmin Training Center software. It’s possible to analyze data with interactive graphs that chart your pace, time, distance and heart rate. Your training runs can be overlayed on a map to match performance with terrain. Other software analysis options include motionbased.com, Garmin’s web based training analysis application and training peaks.com which provides help with training for events.

The primary difference between the two Forerunner models is inclusion with the Forerunner 305 of a robust ANT wireless heart rate monitor embedded in an adjustable chest strap with a replaceable battery. The monitor has been designed to transmit data to the Forrunner 301 while eliminating cross-talk with devices other runners might be wearing and to reliably measure heart rate data. The addition of a heart rate monitor allows you to train safely below your maximum heart rate (220 minus your age) and within your selected heart rate zone with the aid of warning alarms.

The customized interval training program listed above refers to alternating intervals of steady aerobic (oxygen from lungs converts carbohydrates into energy) and high intensity anaerobic (glycogen stored in muscles also used for energy) exercise. During the steady anaerobic intervals the body pays back the oxygen deficit accumulated during the anaerobic intervals. Interval training is a training strategy that has proved to be more effective for improving performance weight loss. Having a heart rate monitor can help monitor more accurately the anaerobic and aerobic taining zones.

If you want to use a GPS training device indoors then you need to look at the Garmin Forerunner 305 which will work with an optional Foot Pod accessory. The Foot Pod sensor is designed to attach to your running shoe and transmit distance and pace data to your Forerunner 305 so you can still use it when GPS reception is unavailable.

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Specification for Garmin Forerunner 301, 201 and 101

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