Reviews
Garmin 405CX
04 October, 2010
So, you might expect that this is a piece of kit for the super fit and those that are fanatical about running. If that is you? Then you are much mistaken. The Garmin 405 CX is super easy to use and has many features - some of which you probably won't every use, but even the basic operation of this GPS watch is awesome. Garmin has a pedigree in GPS, everything from Aircraft Navigation systems to useful golf GPS systems that aim to help golfers navigate the course.
Unlike other systems which I have owned before like the NIKE ID product which requires you to have a suitable running shoe into which you would store a receiver, the Garmin product does not discriminate against your choice of running shoe or anything else for that matter. In its most basic form the Garmin 405 CX looks like a great fashionable watch that instantly tells anyone with a keen eye that you are a runner/jogger. The product really comes into its own when you use it in anger for recording and monitoring your running and jogging progress.
To operate the watch is simple, you don't need a degree in space technology. Its intuitive and in many ways it does what it says on the tin!. The GPS receiver is exceptional in this watch and much improved from the Forerunner 405, its quick to locate satellites and ready to be put to use. The simple click of the Start button starts your tracking. The watch is much more than a GPS system that tracks your progress, it can also be your coach. You can programme your watch to a pace that you want to run/ train at, a short glance at that watch face allows you to see how you are getting on against that setting. This is particularly important if you are training for a specific distance and a particular time.
Setting up your Forerunner 405 for the first time:
For those of us a little less competitive the Garmin 405 CX gives other valuable information. Anyone on a weight loss or keep fit programme will be interested in the calorie burn. The Garmin allows you to preset your Age, weight etc from which it will determine an accurate calorie burn. A common mistake for most people looking to lose weight is that they train at a heart rate which is way too high and therefore placing them in a zone that burns less body fat. Establishing the right pace and training heart rate is a great way to accelerate towards your personal goals. Of course the use of the Garmin 405CX with the heart rate monitor is also a great tool for the more advanced athlete. This allows you to push yourself into your training heart rate range with accuracy!
The list of functions that the 405 CX can offer you is far too long to list here, but this is a must piece of kit for any runner. The watch is comfortable to wear, easy to charge - and importantly the charge lasts a very long time. I am particularly attached to it because it allows you to log your runs no matter where you are. There is a great tool which allows you to download your runs and see them overlaid on a Google earth. So if you like running on holiday.. take this watch with you then bring it home and download the log.
Watch this video for more information on the functions on offer:
Our view:
The Garmin 405 CX is a great tool for runners of all levels. It takes away a lot of the guessing of how far you've run and how many calories you have burnt. I often "feel" as though I have run a lot further than I actually have!
Its an expensive bit of kit! - but well worth having!
What do you think?
Share your views with other readers! - have you got a Garmin or a better product? tell us about it.