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 List Price: $229.99 Sale Price: $100.00 
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Fat or fit - this is for you! Whether you are a triathlete in training or just want to see tangible results, the Forerunner 301 sets the pace with innovative features: Easy to use no calibration required. Just turn it on and go Customize your Forerunner 301 to get the most out of your training - Auto Pause pauses and resumes training timer based on a specified speed so you never have to start or stop the timer / Auto Lap records lap data when you reach a specified distance so you never have to punch the lap button / AutoLearn feature learns user's heart rate zones, adjusting them as fitness levels improve / Virtual Partner lets you train against a specified time, distance or pace goals / AutoScroll cycles through data pages during a workout Included Training Center software lets you create custom workouts with templates from the experts at TrainingPeaks. The software also allows you to store and analyze data using interactive graphs that chart your speed, elevation, pace or heart rate data. Your course is overlaid on a map so you can pinpoint specific areas and see how elevation and other factors affect your performance. Garmin has also formed a partnership with MotionBased to provide Forerunner 301 users with unique internet-based performance analysis and mapping tools for GPS and heart-rate information Display - 1.44 x 0.92 (W x H); 100 x 64 pixels on FSTN display with LCD backlighting / Physical size - 3.3 x 1.7 x 0.7 (W x H x D). Battery Life - Up to 14 hours (typical use); rechargeable lithium ion. Waterproof - IEC 60529 IPX7 standards (submersible in one meter of water for up to 30 mins.) 5000 lap memory (up to 2 years worth of lap data) organized into days or weeks. Heart rate, pace, time distance, interval workout & advanced custom workout alerts
- Continuously Monitors Heart Rate, Speed, Distance,
- Pace & Calories Burned
- Combines Proven
- Heart Rate Monitor & Training System
- Software To Create A Highly-Integrated
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Unless you are too poor and/or cheap and/or frugal, I strongly recommend it.
Other reviewers are correct that it is next to impossible to remove the
velcro watch band BUT there is no need to do it. The mount works perfectly
with the band attached to the ForeRunner.
Why the mount as opposed to pipe insulation? You get the exact viewing
angle all the time w/o the need to experiment and/or reposition.
BTW, I use it on a Minoura extension.
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I have recently purchased a Forerunner 301 after having used a Sports Instruments heart rate monitor for about a year. The heart rate monitor was excellent, and certainly usefull in the gym – rather than wait a certain length of time between sets, wait until your HR is below 120bpm. It allows you to pace yourself much more.
When it comes to running, it is difficult to measure your performance (time, heart rate, and distance) over the days and weeks. A heart rate monitor is good, but when training you need to push yourself and will always have a high heart rate.
The forerunner is a completely different animal. So different, that there really isn’t any fair comparison at all.
With this puppy on your arm you can build a workout (they are quite simple but effective) on your pc, slap it on the forerunner, and off you go. Great running feedback, and excellent info when transferred to the pc. Everything is easy to do – not quite WinXP wizard easy, but simple none the less.
If you live in a large city, forrested areas, or anywhere with sky obstructions, then it may give your trouble with reception. I have had a gps for years, and with my wifi experience I knew that reliable reception was going to be an issue. However, for me I found the reception excellent. Great in fact! In my lounge I can still get a lock with 4 good strength sattelites! If I stop it reacts within 1 second, and another second it knows I have stopped (due to the 1 second display update speed). Much better gps calculations than my garmin gps12.
If you are gagety inclined, and ARE taking (not just wanting or planning to) your running or biking seriously then without a doubt, this is the machine for you.
It isn’t too big, but big enough to read. Locks on in less than 1 minute in my small back yard, and has stellar reaction time. Perhaps even just keeping track of your exercise history is worth it for you? Or the in running feedback? Or the calorie (much more realistic than anythng else I have seen) info?
I am very happy with my buy. I paid $230 for it. Worth every last buck. From my experience I have no trouble recommending the Forerunner 301 to any one who is taking their running seriously!!
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I have the Forerunner 201 and liked it very much. Combined it with my Polar S810 and Sportsim software and was able to coordinate the heartrate info plus minus Ok.
The 301 solves that. Garmin’s Training Center software (2.3.3 beta) is a vast improvement over the previous “Logbook” software. In particular the graphing function is quite useful. No, the software is not perfect and I have several things that I think should be changed but it works well for me when it comes down to analyzing the run. I also use Topofusion 2.51 (also beta-earlier versions can’t read 301 data accurately) and am able to view runs on USGS satelite maps including landsat images. It also has some nice analysis features and allows Digital Elevation Map data to correct elevation data.
The device is nearly identical in appearance – buttons are a little easier to use, has USB instead of serial interface. Does not have WAAS and still is plus minus 30 feet accurate although I think it has improved algorithms. Device software has been improved mostly with addition of multisport options and workouts.
Multisport isn’t well supported (IMHO) particulary within Garmin’s Training Center, but I think it is still considered beta software.
Workouts are very nicely done and I have used the Training Center software to setup workouts that are uploaded to the device and then executed when you run. These are intuitive and straightforward to use and I have found them to be quite useful, especially with the HR monitor.
No real problems. Some have complained that the instantaneous accuracy of the device is variable and this is probably true but overall the real time data is accurate in my experience (over a year with the 201 and 3 months with the 301). Compared to measuring distances with my car’s odometer and then guessing pace based on a stopwatch – what do we want? Once uploaded to the computer data looks pretty accurate. Occasional track points are obviously erroneous – if you use Topofusion you can edit the track to correct these. I have a 4 mile route that I run frequently – 2 miles out and back. Distance variance is about 1/10th mile and the tracks line up well – errors do occur but over about 10 seperate runs they are pretty consistent – not perfect, consistent.
I have had no problems linking to satelites or losing signal using the device in south Texas, Salt Lake, Park City, Maine, New Hampshire, Oklahoma and in airplanes between. This applies to both the 201 and 301.
Heart rate data analysis has been exciting. Never could accurately line up the data points using my Polar monitor and the 201. I have actually discovered helpful correlations using the HR and speed/elevation data graphs from this device that weren’t possible before.
Overall, quite pleased with the device. Training Center software is acceptable and for me actually useful. If you are willing to utilize other software (Topofusion, Sportsim) you can get quite a bit out of this device.
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The Garmin Forerunner 301 is an incredible tool, but make no mistake–you will need to learn how to use it.
Basic functionality of gathering distance, pace, and time is easy–turn the Garmin on and press the start button. But if you want more, like a virtual partner, auto-lap markers or directions home, you need to spend some time playing with it and reading the manual.
I can guarantee that every minute you spend learning will be worth it, though. My favorite feature is the ability to set pace alerts. When running, the unit will signal me with one beep if I’m running 2:00/mile too fast and another beep if I’m running 2:00/mile too slow. It also auto-pauses when I stop and begins to record this as “rest time”. Oh yeah, and it will help you find your car in a parking lot.
There are many more features that can be used with this item, so I suggest you download the manual for more detailed info.
As for the accuracy of the GPS unit, it is excellent within standard GPS parameters. What the heck does that mean? No GPS can track you in a tunnel, and no GPS can track a moving target in a forest. (I’m sure the military has something for these applications, but we’re talking about a wristwatch priced in the low hundreds here) So when you run in an open field on a clear day, the Garmin will be nearly flawless. But when you run in the city or in a park, be prepared for some inaccuracy. If you hit open sky every once in a while, you should be fine, but just be aware that it will not be perfect.
Some tips:
1. Each time you’re out for a run, wait for the Garmin to acquire its signal before starting. A little bit of patience pays off when your start location is accurate.
2. All data produced by the GPS is a “best estimate”. Don’t get worried if your pace alert says that you’re running at 2:15 minutes per mile. Wait a second and it will clear up (unless you really are that fast!)
3. The Garmin probably uses the same Mini-USB connector as your digital camera, so try it out before swapping cables!
In short, if you are willing to take the time to understand the Forerunner 301, you will LOVE it. If reading the manual and minor tinkering is not for you, then you might want to think twice. Have fun!
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I have owned and/or used nearly every pedometer, HRM and speed monitor made, including those by Suunto, Polar, Fitsense, Sports Instruments, Reebok, Timex, Nike and others. I have spent thousands over the years. Hear me when I tell you that the Garmin Forerunner 301 bests ALL of them by a longshot! It is one of the cheapest, yet most reliable devices I have owned. It is well designed, scientifically sound, easy to use and more accurate than all the others combined.
I bought the Garmin Forerunner 301 shortly after smashing (yes, literally) my Fitsense FS1 into pieces at the local track. I finally had enough of the problems and unreliability. Most of all, I was SICK of having my sports instrument, the very thing that is supposed to motivate me, get in the way of training. The others are no better and some are much worse.
Here is what I want to share with you about the Forerunner 301:
Having had a Garmin GPS12 for 5 years now, I can see that Garmin has used every ounce of experience from their GPS products on this very fine product. The software for the unit is well written and convenient to use though some who are technically challenged may find it tedious. I personally like the software and find that the unit consistently does exactly what I want it to do.
The large rectangular screen is very easy to read and is highly configurable. That means you can display all the information you want on a single page. Virtually every parameter of the device can be customized or adjusted to your preference. I love that the backlight illuminates automatically when I reach transitions in my workouts- no more fumbling with buttons just to see what is happening! The green backlight is easy on the eyes as well.
Battery life is stellar! And, as if a computer controlled Lithium Ion battery isn’t great enough, the geniuses at Garmin let us charge the unit from an AC adapter (included) or the USB cable (included). That means you can charge from ANY COMPUTER WITH A USB PORT. There is no need to drag another adapter along with your laptop- just plug the 301 in and you are charging. Plus, a full charge lasts me at least 8 hours. And, it charges quickly (1 hour).
I really do not see what the fuss is about the heart rate monitor. Although it does seem to be sensitive to EMI/RFI (interference) from various sources, including my computer CRT, I have had no trouble whatsoever when I am running. I suspect that some users are not using the strap properly. I keep the unit clean, install fresh batteries regularly, wet the electrodes thoroughly and fit the unit snugly in the center of my chest just above my sternum. I have yet to experience a single problem. I do recall suspecting a malfunction with the HRM when I first tried the 301, but it was my own fault. There are a lot of numbers that can appear on the display and I was misreading the values. My 301 is set to display how many BPM or %Max I am away from my next goal, so instead of seeing a 141bpm, I see 13bpm and an arrow indicating if I am beneath or above the target. I was confused by this functionality until I read the manual and got acquainted with the unit.
If you are experiencing something more than what can be corrected with reading the instructions, knowing how to use the features and proper use of the chest strap then just send it in for warranty repair `cause something is wrong. Not to worry, there is a full one year warranty on it also!
The GPS portion of the device is solid as a rock. Yes, GPS signals come from satellites and require that much of the sky be visible in order to work, but temporary interruptions don’t mean squat. If there is a period in your activity where the GPS signal is weak or absent, the software in the device simply compensates for it by measuring between the last known points. If you are running through tunnels, deep urban streets or coal mines then expect a problem, but otherwise, the thing does its job as well or better than anything else I have used.
The PC software installed and worked without any problems. My data transferred seamlessly and I was able to view graphs and manipulate data without any difficulties whatsoever. It is true that the graphics on the software aren’t going to compete with a video game, but who cares? I want reliable data, flawless operation and speedy transfers, not fluffy graphics.
Serious athletes should consider the Garmin Forerunner 301. It is easily the best solution that there is! Good luck and enjoy your fitness!
Rating
Let me start by saying I use the forerunner mostly on my bicycle. I don’t have the mount as I just wrap it over my old bike computer.
I have had it about 3 months and I can’t leave the house without it. I ride my bike to work, which is about 3.5 miles away. I also ride three times a week at a nearby college since they have a nice mountain in the middle of campus.
On the road it is very accurate. In about 50 sessions I have had it lose a satelite once. I also don’t get a lot of cut off corners, but I think streets lend themselves well to GPS. For each ride home I use the Training Assistant and essentially race against my best time. It’s not perfect since it only shows you how you are doing against an average speed, instead of how you were doing during a sepecific leg. This has really made beating personal records a lot of fun.
Next often, I use the device in the woods. Here it is still invaluable, but it’s recption does suffer a little. I usually will lose the satelite several times during an hour ride, but often times I don’t notice it. It polls often enough that a few missed point has a minimal effect.
For climbs, it is excellent. It polls the satelite enough to provide an accurate detailed map. For downhills it polls the same amount, but my speed increases 10 fold and critical corners are missed during the polling. Downhills aren’t near as detailed as they should be.
I have used the device for running a few times, and really liked it. I am a stats freak and record every run and bike ride. This really eases the burden.
As I mentioned, I have had few problem with picking up the satelite. Even under trees, it’s reception is acceptable.
Battery life is excellent and when the battery dies you don’t lose all your data. It shuts down with enough power left to store the data.
Garmin is also pretty aggressive with their updates. The last update I installed actually improved my battery life and added new features.
Another feature that would be nice is to save routes with the personal trainer allowing you to save and use different times for different routes.
The Garmin PC software is very basic and the overlay maps stink. I do use it, but in conjuction with some freeware called SportTracks. It downloads maps from the USGS and they are much better than what garmin provides. You can also save images and upload your route to Google Earth. It will also figure out what the temperature was at the time you rode/ran.
The Forerunner has a very large memory. After at least 50 rides, I still have not had to clear the memory. I think I read that it can store up to two years of data.
The heartrate monitor has been a little flaky recently, but i suspect I just need a new battery. Once I break a sweat it works great. It could also be my chest hair causing poor conduction.
Support is not that great, at least via email. I asked a real simple question, but never got a reply. It wasn’t important enough to call, so I didn’t.
The forerunner is well made and waterproof, although make sure the USB slot is covered before you dip it in water! It is very feature rich and can be adapted to different styles of use.
Garmin is coming out with a new GPS just for bikes that fixes most of the flaws I pointed out.
If you keep track of every run, I think you can’t go wrong. if want to use it on a bike, wait for the bike specific one to come out later this year.
Rating
The Garmin Forerunner GPS with heart rate monitor is excellent. It is easy to use and has a configurable display allowing me to put the Lap Pace in Large numbers and the Heart Rate, Lap Distance and Lap Time in smaller numbers, yet still readable. When I am more interested in my Heart Rate as the big number, it is easy to reconfigure the display with a push of a button. The product was delivered very fast, I am very happy with Amazon’s service.
Rating
I waited a couple of weeks before reviewing to be sure I had a good sense of how well this device performs over time. So, here are my impressions.
The Garmin Forerunner 301 is great!
The GPS is very accurate. One time I used it while driving in my care and it measured my distance to work at 17.5 miles. I then went to an on-line mapping/routing program, and give it the same path. It returned a distance of 17.5 miles!
Battery life is amazing. It re-charges in less than 4 hours, and then it is good for 13-14 hours. I have never run out of battery, or even come close.
First, it is very comfortable to wear (I recommend, though, not wearing it on bare skin but over a shirt sleeve, as it won’t get sweaty this way). The strap is strong and comfortable, and once on you don’t even notice the device is there. It feels strong too, although I don’t want to try it, it feels like it would survive drops very well. The screen is recessed, therefore making it quite protected.
Displayed info is very intuitive, LARGE, and customizable. When it first arrives it is set up for pace (minutes/mile), but I changed it to speed (miles/hour). It also allows using metrics (km/hour).
I use it mostly for bike rides, and to figure out best routes to drive to work. I therefore separate these two into two sports: Biking and I use Running for the car. Thus, I can keep these datasets separate. I record bike rides, which includes altitude, grade, speed, position, and heart rate. Later the included software can be used to analyze the session (note: the included software didn’t work when first installed, but the lastest version found on the Garmin website worked the first time and flawlessly since, FYI, I have a Windows XP pro system).
I’ve read some complaints about the heart monitor. Well, I’ve had 4 bike riding sessons, and it workd great on the first two. Then, it worked very intermitently on the 3rd. But, I figured out why! One thing not mentioned in the manual is that the heat monitor chest attachment has two strap connectors on each side. The monitor works virtually perfectly, IF you have it so it is tight-but-not-too-tight, AND those two snap connectors on the side are SNAP-LOCKED into place! If NOT snap-locked, the monitor moves around a bit over time, and loses connection and gives bad readings (>200). But when snapped, it works great! So those who experienced this problem might not have done this. I did this on my fourth bike trip, and it worked all the time, apart from one 15 second glitch.
When the heart rate monitors is working, the included software can be used to plot lots of different things on comparative graphs, and calculates approximate calorie usage. I like to use it to review (re-live) old rides, and keep track of totals (like miles driven this year). Using on-line programs (such as Motion Based, owned by Garmin) one can convert the info to such formats as Google Earth (then you can replay your bike ride on a photo map of the Earth!).
I’m amazed that in this day and age there is a device that actually does what it says it does! And it’s not at all expensive for what it can do. It’s not perfect, but definitely in the top 20% (heck, I’d give it a numerical rating of 95%, which is 4.75 out of 5), so 5 stars is my vote!
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I was concerned about this product because of the negative reviews and particularly about the heart monitor. But I received it the next day after ordering from Amazon – whose service continues to get better for me – and I immediately charged the battery and then set up my profile.
The next morning I used it for the first time and the heart rate monitor worked flawlessly for me. The GPS was exceptional as well. The heart rate monitor worked as well or better than my trusty Polar and they agreed with each other, too.
The only negatives I experienced were: 1) that the unit seemed a little bulky to me at first but I gradually became accustomed to it; 2) the lap button is near the start/stop button and I run in the dark so I had a bit of trouble with laps. I think I’ll get the hang of the buttons soon.
Also the Training Center software did not work and I had to download the latest version from the web site. But I like the training center software just fine for my needs.
I would recommend it.
Rating
I was worried after reading the other reviews but didn’t want to buy the more expensive models. As a result, I kept all the packing materials and documents when unpacking it (so that I can return it if it was as bad as the reviews made it out to be).
Since it arrived, I have used it for running, biking, indoor aerobics, and weight training. I did not have the problem with either the GPS or the HRM. Once GPS is locked, it doesn’t create any problem, but it does take 20 seconds or so to get the signal. The heart rate monitor did not stop working at any time except when I was doing weights which led to movement of the strap.
When biking on a wooded trail, I continued to get the GPS signal. If I start moving before locking the signal from the satellite the unit does not get the signal at all (so it is better to wait the few extra seconds before starting out). While using it indoors, my objective is to get the heart rate over the entire period I am working out. When I switch off the GPS, i am able to do this without any problem.
I am using two softwares with it right now – at some point in time I will figure out which one to make the main software. Other than the training center that came with the unit (actually I downloaded the latest version), I am using sportstrack which is a free software. Thanks to the earlier reviewer from whom I learnt about this free software which works great – it has several analysis options as well as mapping options.
At no point did I have a problem with the unit – either the HRM or the GPS. I think it is a great unit and worth every buck I paid for it at Amazon.
I have two issues wih the unit and neither of them is so critical as to reduce the rating of the product. First, I would like to see a better software – Sportstrack is significantly better. I am still using Garmin’s because it allows me to see the heart rate zones over the run better. Second, I should be able to have two users of the device.
Overall, I am very happy with the product and am writing the review because my expereince was much better than what the earlier reviews made me expect from this product.