Garmin Forerunner 301

By Coach Matt Russ

I purchased this little beauty a few weeks ago and I have to say it is the most revolutionary training device for running since the heart rate monitor. On one screen you can monitor your pace, heart rate, and distance; real time. You can customize several screens to include a wide variety of data. Works for the bike too; you can view your speed and even hill incline.

I used the Garmin right out of the box without even looking at the instruction book. I found the unit to be intuitive and very easy to use. Although it is larger than a traditional heart rate monitor it is by no means heavy or uncomfortable. The software included is first rate and very easy to understand. Best of all it is uploadable to the coaching software system I use to coach my athletes. If you need to analyze your run training this is by far your best bet.

Matt Russ has coached and trained elite athletes from around the country and internationally for over ten years. He currently holds expert licenses from USA Triathlon, USA Cycling (Elite), and is a licensed USA Track and Field Coach. Matt is head coach and owner of The Sport Factory, and works with athletes of all levels full time. He is a free lance author and his articles are regularly featured in a variety of magazines such as Inside Triathlon, and Triathlete. Visit www.thesportfactory.com for more information or email him at coachmatt@thesportfactory.com