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The software that came along with the watch now can not recognize the watch. I used the Garmin Forerunner 305 for just about a year. It worked great and was very helpful for tracking my runs but then it just stopped working. I have tried several recommended fixes and none of them work. A one year life span is pretty weak.
Locks in on satellites very quickly. I wish I could configure the settings from the Garmin software rather than having to use the 305 buttons. I use it to track my running, biking, and canoeing. Heart rate function works perfectly. One word of warning - although the device is called waterproof with an IPX7 rating, I know several people who have had water get in the device and ruin it. The user interface on the device is a bit clunky, but does the job fine.The data is the reason to have the 305. Overall I'm very pleased with the purchase.Two possible improvements1.
If I have the setting wrong for Running, Biking, Other, I can't see how to change it once its downloaded into the Garmin software. Does a great job. For example configuring the disply settings, clearing history, etc would be much nicer in a GUI on the computer rather than the buttons on the 305.2. I've really switched my workouts over to more heart rate zone training and the watch is perfect for it. Speed function is almost always exactly what my bike speedo shows. So if you run when the 305 is set to Biking, your workout will show up in biking, calculate calories based on biking, etc. When I use mine in the ocean I keep it in a drybag.
Better yet, the Garmin training center software logs all your runs so that you have an easy to access record of your progress. It never seems to have an issue with drop outs while running.
However, the Garmin Forerunner 305 is awesome. Of all the items I've bought from Amazon, this is the first time I've been compelled to write a review on a product.
The GPS function picks up satellites even inside my house, which is something that both of my vehicle GPS units cannot seem to do. I ordered it on a Monday, received it on Wednesday (thanks to the distribution warehouse being less than 100 miles from where I live).
Initially, it looks intimidating but it really is fairly easy to figure out once you get a few minutes of time with it. The ability to record data such as heart rate, distance, speed, pace really do add a lot to running and my workouts.
For the price, this is an awesome piece of technology.
Prior to purchasing this item I was training for a half marathon and started losing track of writing down my miles, which in turn made me lose motivation to improve or even continue. I don't even notice it's on me when I'm running, don't let the size fool you. At first I was a little hesitant due to the size (I'm a 5'3" female) but I decided, after research and many positive reviews to go with the Garmin 305 and what an incredible and powerful tool. There's something so motivating to see where and how many miles you've run when you download your device. I highly recommend this product as I improved not only the physical aspect of training but the mental part. I completed my half and now I'm training for a full marathon.
I've used the 305 for years and love it. It's so great to see your distance and pace at a glance as well as compare your runs on your computer. I just bought this unit for my daughter and she loves it as well. When traveling overseas it does take longer to initalize but once it does it works great.
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