Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I have used Timex Ironman watches for the last 20+ years for tracking running splits while training for local 10k races, so I am used to the format. The format for the Trail Runner watch is total different due to its additional features of the GPS and Heart Rate monitor. Even with these new features, it is still easy to use.
It has the ability to show you 3 different lines of realtime date that you can select from while in the Chonograph mode. You can watch heart rate, speed, distance, pace, lap time, split time, etc. what ever you desire. The middle line of the screen is larger than the top or bottom data line, so you can even toggle what data is provided in that line for better viewability while running. It comes with a bike attachment for Triathalon training so you can mount to handle bars instead of looking down at your wrist all the time.
The GPS is very accurate for tracking distance even under heavy trees. If you are using the belt clip versus the arm band for the GPS module, then you may find that accuracy may vary slightly due to being covered up by your shirt while running. When I tuck in my shirt just above the belt clip on my hip, then the GPS is precisely accurate each and every time. I have not used the arm band yet, but I imagine that would solve this problem. You can hit the mode button a couple of times while running to get to the Finish mode, and the watch will predict your finish time based on how far you told the watch you run will be -- extremely helpful for hitting target times while training, trying to hit a qualifying time for a road race, or hitting a personal best or finish time for a race.
The GPS module takes about 1 to 2 minutes to link up with the satellites, so you need to give it that time before you begin your run. The heart rate monitor is awesome and 100% accurate - I tested it for accuracy against another HR monitor. I also checked the speed mode on the GPS (shows MPH) against 3 cars to see how accurate, and again 100% accurate even at 50 and 60 MPH. Weight wise, the GPS module is so light even with the 1 AA battery, that you dont even notice its there. The watch itself is not any larger than some of my other large Timex Ironman watches and is also extremely light weight. I also ordered the new version of the Data Recorder (weighs as much as a ping pong ball), but I have not used it yet in the three weeks I've owned the Watch kit and Data Recorder. The info that comes with the Data Recorder shows that they have not updated the software program for you computer to be compatible with Windows Vista. I checked online at Timex.com, and they didn't show an update to the software yet to download the week that I received the Data Recorder, but it looks like a great addition to the package that I should and will start using shortly.
All in all, I'm extremely pleased with this watch and how it is helping me to improve my running. I love being able to go out the door and just run until the watch tells me I've hit my half way point on distance so that I can turn around and head home. If you can afford this watch, you will not be sorry at all!!
Click Here to see more reviews about: Timex Ironman T5J985 Unisex Trail Runner Bodylink Heart Rate Monitor Watch
Combining GPS location data with heart rate monitoring, the Timex Ironman Trail Runner (model T5J985) is a great choice for serious and professional runners, providing latitude and longitude, altitude/elevation data, exact real-time/average/maximum speed, and pace calculation. It offers a stylish silver watch face accented with bright yellow, dark gray resin band with buckle closure, chest-strap heart rate monitor, and lightweight GPS receiver.
Location features include the ability to record up to 10 waypoints, on-the-move compass directional heading, and a Track Back function to navigate you back to a selected waypoint. Speed and Distance features include tracking of your workout distance (with target distance alerts), continuous odometer for total distance for a workout or group of workouts, and a predictive finish time mode that uses total event distance and pace data. The heart rate monitor features include:
Target Zones: Preset your desired heart rate exercise zone. Alarm notification when you are not in zone.
Average Heart Rate: Displays your average heart rate over a period of time.
Time In Zone: Amount of time spent within your selected heart rate target zone.
Recovery Heart Rate Timer: Measure your heart rate after a timed recovery.
Max Heart Rate Zone Calculation: Automatically sets your five training zones; one manual zone.
Digital Transmission: Timex's system protects your data from other heart rate monitors and most exercise equipment.
This watch also provides:
3-line customizable display
Summary Mode: review navigational, speed, distance and heart rate performance data at end of workout
100-hour chronograph with either lap/split in large digits,
100-lap memory with recall of Bodylink system data
2 linked interval timers
100-hour, 3-mode countdown timer
5 alarms for daily, weekday, weekend or weekly with 5-minute backup
Up to 2 year battery life
Included bike mount
The Indiglo night-light uniformly lights the surface of the watch dial using patented blue electroluminescent lighting technology. It uses less battery power than most other watch illumination systems, enabling your watch battery to last longer. The Night Mode feature allows you to illuminate the Indiglo night-light for 3 seconds with any button press, regardless of the mode or function. The watch is water resistant to 50 meters (165 feet)--suitable for swimming but not for diving--and the GPS sensor is splash resistant. All Timex heart rate monitor sensors have batteries that can be replaced by consumers without requiring them to be returned to the manufacturer.
