If you’re looking for an accessory to help you keep track of your running progress, a watch specifically designed for beginners could be a great choice. However, before you make a purchase, there are a few factors you should consider.
Firstly, it’s important to think about your budget. There are watches available at many price points, and while you don’t have to spend a lot to get a great watch, you should aim for one that meets your specific needs. Second, consider the features that are important to you. Would you like a watch with GPS or heart rate monitoring? What kind of data do you want to be able to track? Finally, think about the style and design of the watch. While it’s not the most important factor, a watch that matches your personal style and is comfortable to wear can make all the difference.
If you’re new to running, you might be wondering why you need a watch at all. Well, a watch can help you track your distance, pace, and time, which can be essential information when you’re trying to improve your performance. Additionally, many watches offer coaching features to help you meet your goals, and can connect to apps that give you more insights into your running habits. With so many benefits, it’s worth considering investing in a watch for beginner runners.
Ready to take your running to the next level? Ask yourself these questions before buying a watch: Do you prefer a simple or complex watch? How much are you willing to spend? Would you like a watch with coaching features to help you reach your goals? Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll be on your way to finding the perfect watch for your running journey.
10 Best Watch For Beginner Runners
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
The product is ideal for tracking and monitoring running activities with its easy-to-use GPS technology.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
The product is ideal for tracking running activities and providing free coaching support through GPS technology.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
It is ideal for individuals looking for a durable, sporty watch with essential features at an affordable price.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
This product is ideal for those who want a durable and stylish watch for daily wear or fitness activities.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts with active lifestyles who need a durable and easy-to-use digital watch with a comfortable strap.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
Ideal for beginner runners wanting GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring and time, pace and speed tracking. Includes screen protectors and portable charger.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
The product is ideal for women who want a reliable and stylish watch for everyday use or sports activities.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
The product is ideal for tracking fitness and health, featuring GPS, heart rate monitoring, and Alexa integration with long battery life.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
It is an ideal watch for those who seek a durable and reliable timepiece for outdoor activities.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
This product is ideal for young girls who want a cute and comfortable watch with a fun design.
|
|
1. Garmin 010-01689-00 Forerunner 35; Easy-To-Use Gps Running Watch, Black
The GPS running watch is a must-have for every runner who wants to keep track of their running progress. This watch is designed to track your running distance, speed, and location with ease. It features Bluetooth technology that allows you to connect it to your smartphone and enjoy various features such as smart notifications, live tracking, and music controls. The watch is also water-resistant, making it perfect for use in all weather conditions.
One of the unique features of this watch is its ability to estimate your heart rate at the wrist, all day and night, using Garmin elevate wrist heart rate technology. This is a great way to keep track of your heart rate and ensure that you are working towards your fitness goals.
The watch also comes with all-day activity tracking features that estimate your steps, calories, and intensity minutes. It reminds you when to move, ensuring that you are always active and working towards your fitness goals. Additionally, the watch automatically uploads your data to Garmin Connect, a free online fitness community where you can join challenges, receive insights, and share your progress as you meet your goals.
- Tracks running distance, speed, and location with ease
- Bluetooth technology for smart notifications, live tracking, and music controls
- Estimates heart rate at the wrist all day and night
- Water-resistant design for use in all weather conditions
- All-day activity tracking features estimate steps, calories, and intensity minutes
- Reminds you when to move
- Automatically uploads data to Garmin Connect for tracking progress and insights
2. Coach-Supported Gps Running Watch For Women
The Garmin Forerunner 45S is a smaller-sized running watch that is easy-to-use and provides accurate heart rate monitoring at the wrist. It features GPS technology that allows you to track your pace, distance, intervals, and more. The watch also works with free Garmin Coach Adaptive training plans, which offer expert and personalized coaching right to your wrist.
This watch comes with various sports apps for running, cycling, indoor track, treadmill, elliptical, cardio, yoga, and more. You can also enjoy connected features like smart notifications for incoming texts and calls, automatic uploads to the Garmin Connect online community, live tracking, and music controls for your paired compatible smartphone.
The watch provides safety and tracking features that include incident detection during select activities. In case of an emergency, it sends your real-time location to your emergency contacts through your paired compatible smartphone.
The Forerunner 45S has a battery life of up to 7 days in smartwatch mode and up to 14 hours in GPS mode. The package includes the Forerunner 45S, a charging cable, and documentation.
- Provides accurate heart rate monitoring at the wrist
- Works with free Garmin Coach Adaptive training plans
- Offers various sports apps for different activities
- Provides safety and tracking features, including incident detection
- Long battery life of up to 7 days in smartwatch mode
- – Smaller-sized watch may not be suitable for people with larger wrists
- – May not have advanced features for professional athletes
3. Timex Men's T5e231 Ironman Classic 100 Black/yellow Resin Strap Watch
The black resin strap of this watch is 18mm and adjustable to fit up to an 8-inch wrist circumference. The watch features a 100-hour chronograph with 100-lap memory, ideal for athletes to track their performance. The interval training timer and 24-hour countdown timer make it perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Users can customize up to 5 alarms and switch between 24-hour military time mode and 2 time zones. The watch also comes with a day, date, and month calendar. The black and silver-toned 44mm resin case has an acrylic lens, while the gray digital display features an Indiglo light-up watch dial. It is water-resistant to 100m (330 ft), making it suitable for snorkeling and swimming, but not diving.
This watch is perfect for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike. Its 100-hour chronograph and 100-lap memory make it an ideal tool for tracking performance. The customizable alarms and 24-hour countdown timer are also great features for those who want to keep on top of their schedule. The watch is also water-resistant to 100m, making it suitable for various water activities.
This watch is not suitable for diving, but it is perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Its customizable features make it perfect for those who want to keep track of their fitness goals and daily schedule.
- Adjustable strap to fit up to an 8-inch wrist circumference
- 100-hour chronograph with 100-lap memory
- Interval training timer and 24-hour countdown timer
- 5 customizable alarms
- 24-hour military time mode and 2 time zones
- Day, date, and month calendar
- Water-resistant to 100m (330 ft)
- Indiglo light-up watch dial
- – Not suitable for diving
4. Ironman Classic Gray/black Watch W/ Orange Accents
With its sleek black 16 millimeter resin strap, the watch can easily fit up to an 8-inch wrist circumference. The watch is equipped with a 100-hour chronograph that can store up to 30-lap memory, as well as a 24-hour countdown timer. Setting the watch is made easy with the on-screen prompts that allow forward or backward adjustment. Additionally, the watch features 3 daily, weekday, or weekend alarms, a 24-hour military time mode, 3 time zones, and a day, date, and month calendar. The watch's gray and black 38 millimeter resin case is paired with an acrylic lens and a gray digital display that features an Indiglo light-up watch dial. Water-resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet), the watch is suitable for swimming and snorkeling, but not diving.
For those who need a watch that can keep up with their active lifestyle, this watch is a great choice. Its durable resin strap and case can withstand the wear and tear of daily use, and its water-resistant feature makes it perfect for those who love water sports. The watch's chronograph and countdown timer are great features for athletes who need to keep track of their performance, while its multiple alarms and time zones make it a great travel companion. The Indiglo light-up watch dial also makes it easy to read the time even in low-light conditions.
- Durable resin strap and case
- Water-resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet)
- Multiple features including chronograph, countdown timer, alarms, and time zones
- Indiglo light-up watch dial for easy reading in low-light conditions
- – Not suitable for diving
5. Timex Unisex T49660 Expedition Mid-Size Digital Cat Gray/blue Stripe Fast Wrap Strap Watch
The Adjustable Gray and Blue Striped 16mm Nylon Fast Wrap Strap Watch is a great watch for those who lead an active lifestyle. The watch comes with an adjustable strap that fits up to 7.5-inch wrist circumference, making it comfortable to wear all day long. The strap is made of high-quality nylon material and features a hook and loop closure for added convenience.
The watch is equipped with a 100-hour chronograph with lap and split times, allowing you to keep track of your workouts and training sessions with ease. It also comes with a 24-hour countdown timer, month, day and date calendar, and 3 daily, weekday or weekend alarms with 5-minute backup, making it a versatile watch that can keep you on track throughout the day.
The watch also features a 24-hour military time mode and 2 time zones, making it perfect for those who travel frequently. The black and blue 33mm resin case with acrylic lens and gray digital display give the watch a sleek and modern look. The watch also features an Indiglo light-up watch dial, making it easy to read in low light conditions.
The watch is water-resistant to 100m (330 ft), making it suitable for snorkeling, as well as swimming, but not diving. Overall, the Adjustable Gray and Blue Striped 16mm Nylon Fast Wrap Strap Watch is a reliable and durable watch that is perfect for those who lead an active lifestyle.
- Adjustable strap fits up to 7.5-inch wrist circumference
- 100-hour chronograph with lap and split times
- 24-hour countdown timer, month, day and date calendar
- 3 daily, weekday or weekend alarms with 5-minute backup
- 24-hour military time mode and 2 time zones
- Indiglo light-up watch dial
- Water-resistant to 100m (330 ft)
- – Not suitable for diving
6. Runboost Heart Monitor Bundle By Playbetter
The Forerunner 55 GPS smartwatch is an ideal device for tracking fitness goals and improving running performance. It is designed for individuals of all skill levels who want to monitor their stats and progress. With its GPS technology, the watch can track time, distance, pace, and speed, and even provide an estimate of your finish time. This Garmin running watch is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
The Forerunner 55 watch offers more than just running tracking features. It also includes built-in profiles for other activities such as cycling, indoor biking, track run, virtual run, pool swimming, Pilates, HIIT, yoga, and breathwork. This allows users to take a break and engage in other fitness activities. The watch also has advanced health features like stress monitoring, body energy levels, respiration, and more, which can help individuals achieve their fitness goals.
The Garmin Forerunner 55 Power Bundle includes the Forerunner 55 Running GPS Watch, PlayBetter HD Tempered Glass Screen Protectors (2-Pack), Portable 5000mAh Charger, and USB Charging Cable. This bundle ensures that your device remains safe and secure while in use. Moreover, the portable charger allows users to charge their device on the go, without worrying about running out of battery power.
Overall, the Forerunner 55 GPS smartwatch is a great investment for individuals who want to improve their fitness performance and track their progress. Its advanced features, ease of use, and compatibility with other fitness activities make it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts of all levels.
- Tracks running stats such as time, distance, pace, and speed accurately using GPS technology
- Built-in profiles for a range of fitness activities, including yoga and swimming
- Advanced health features, such as stress monitoring and body energy levels
- Long battery life of up to 20 hours in GPS mode
- Comes with a power bundle that includes a charger and screen protectors
- – The price point may be high for some individuals
7. Timex Women's T5k739 Ironman Essential 10 Mid-Size Turquoise Resin Strap Watch
The Clean Sport Design Sports Stopwatch is a great watch for athletes and sports enthusiasts. It features a 10 Lap Memory, Countdown Timer & Alarm, and Indiglo Light-Up Watch Dial. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet), which makes it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. However, it is not recommended for scuba diving. The watch has a case height of 0.4 inches and a strap and lug width of 0.5 inches. The durable resin strap comes with a buckle closure, which ensures a secure fit.
The watch is perfect for tracking lap times during training sessions or races. The 10 Lap Memory allows users to store and review their lap times, which is a great feature for people who want to improve their performance. The Countdown Timer & Alarm is also a useful feature for athletes who need to time their training sessions or workouts.
The Indiglo Light-Up Watch Dial is a great feature for people who like to train early in the morning or late at night. The dial lights up with a push of a button, which makes it easy to read the time in low-light conditions. The watch is also very easy to use, which is great for people who want a simple and reliable sports watch.
- Water-resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet)
- 10 Lap Memory
- Countdown Timer & Alarm
- Durable Resin Strap
- Indiglo Light-Up Watch Dial
- Easy to use
- – Not recommended for scuba diving
8. Fitbit Versa 3 – Your Ultimate Fitness Companion
The Fitbit Versa 3 is a premium fitness tracker that helps you monitor your fitness levels and improve your overall health. With a Daily Readiness Score feature, you can determine if you’re ready to exercise or if you need to focus on recovery. This feature requires a Fitbit Premium membership, and content recommendations may only be available in English and not available in all locales.
The tracker is water-resistant up to 50 meters, so you can run, bike, hike, and more without worrying about water damage. It also comes with built-in GPS, which allows you to see your real-time pace and distance. Additionally, you can check out your workout intensity map in the Fitbit app.
The Fitbit Versa 3 also offers an Active Zone Minutes feature, which uses your resting heart rate to gauge exercise effort. It gives you a buzz when you step up your intensity so that you can make the most of your workouts. Furthermore, the device uses PurePulse 2.0, Fitbit's enhanced heart rate technology, to better track your heart rate 24/7.
You can use Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa Built-in to get quick news, set bedtime reminders and alarms, control your smart home devices, and more just by speaking to your watch. The device also includes a 6-month Premium membership that comes with personalized insights, advanced analytics, guided programs, and more. However, this offer is only available to new and returning Premium users, and you must activate the trial within 60 days of device activation. Content and features may change.
With the Fitbit Versa 3, you get up to 6+ days of battery life on a full charge, and one day of battery in just 12 minutes with fast charging. However, battery life varies with use and other factors, and continuous GPS use may reduce battery life to up to 12 hours. The device also tracks your time in light, deep, and REM sleep and provides you with a Sleep Score to better understand your sleep quality each night.
Finally, the Fitbit Versa 3 lets you play music and control Spotify from your wrist. However, subscriptions are required for the use of the music service, and it may not be available in all countries.
- Daily Readiness Score helps you determine if you're ready to exercise or if you need to focus on recovery.
- Water-resistant up to 50 meters.
- Built-in GPS helps you track your real-time pace and distance.
- Active Zone Minutes feature gauges exercise effort and gives you a buzz when you step up your intensity.
- PurePulse 2.0 enhances heart rate technology for better heart rate tracking.
- Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa Built-in helps you control your smart home devices and set reminders.
- 6-month Premium membership offers personalized insights, advanced analytics, and guided programs.
- Fast charging provides a day of battery life in just 12 minutes.
- Tracks time in light, deep, and REM sleep to better understand sleep quality.
- Allows you to play music and control Spotify from your wrist.
- – Daily Readiness Score feature requires a Fitbit Premium membership.
- – Content recommendations may only be available in English and not available in all locales.
- – Continuous GPS use may reduce battery life to up to 12 hours.
- – Subscriptions are required for the use of the music service, and it may not be available in all countries.
9. Casio Men's G-Shock Quartz Watch With Resin Strap, Black, 20 (Model: Dw5600e-1v)
The black resin sport watch is a great choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities. This watch is designed to withstand shocks, making it a durable choice. The comfortable resin strap ensures that the wearer will not experience any discomfort during long periods of use. The multi-function rectangular dial is easy to read and provides a lot of information at a glance.
The watch features quartz digital movement, which ensures accuracy of +/- 15 seconds per month. The top left button on this watch is designed to be pushed in further to prevent accidental adjusting of settings. The watch features several useful functions, including a multi-function alarm, 1/100-second stopwatch, countdown timer, hourly time signal, auto calendar, and 12- and 24-hour formats.
This watch is water resistant to 660 feet (200 M), making it suitable for recreational scuba diving. Overall, this watch is a great choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities and need a durable, reliable watch.
- Shock resistance design makes it a durable choice
- Comfortable resin strap ensures long periods of use without discomfort
- Multi-function rectangular dial provides a lot of information at a glance
- Quartz digital movement ensures accuracy of +/- 15 seconds per month
- Water resistant to 660 feet (200 M): suitable for recreational scuba diving
- – May not be suitable for formal occasions
- – Lacks advanced features such as GPS tracking
10. Timex Girls T89001 Time Machines Hearts & Butterflies Elastic Fabric Strap Watch
The adjustable and washable elastic fabric strap of this watch can be comfortably adjusted to fit the wrist of the wearer. The white easy-to-read dial is perfect for kids who are just learning to read the time, with minutes marked to make it easier for them. The second hand of the watch features a rotating butterfly graphic, making it more fun and interactive for kids. Additionally, the watch comes with a 100% worry-free replacement plan so parents can have peace of mind when purchasing this product. The watch is water-resistant up to 30 meters (100 feet), which means it can withstand splashes or brief immersion in water, but it is not recommended for swimming or bathing.
Teaching kids how to tell time has never been more fun with this watch's rotating butterfly graphic second hand. The adjustable and washable elastic fabric strap ensures a comfortable fit for kids of all ages. Parents can rest easy knowing that this product comes with a 100% worry-free replacement plan. The watch is also water-resistant, making it perfect for everyday wear.
This watch's adjustable and washable elastic fabric strap ensures that it can be comfortably worn by kids of all ages. The easy-to-read white dial with minutes marked makes it easier for kids who are just learning to read time. The rotating butterfly graphic second hand adds a fun and interactive element to the watch. Parents can also have peace of mind with the 100% worry-free replacement plan that comes with this product. The watch is water-resistant, making it perfect for everyday wear and activities that involve splashing or brief immersion in water.
- Adjustable and washable elastic fabric strap for a comfortable fit
- White easy-to-read dial with minutes marked for learning
- Rotating butterfly graphic second hand adds a fun and interactive element
- Comes with a 100% worry-free replacement plan
- Water-resistant for everyday wear and activities involving splashing or brief immersion in water
- – Not suitable for swimming or bathing
Best Watch For Beginner Runners FAQs
Are there any specific brands or models of watches that are recommended for beginner runners?
As a beginner runner, it's important to have a reliable and accurate watch to track your time, distance, and pace. While there are many brands and models of watches on the market, there are a few that are specifically designed for runners.
One popular brand for running watches is Garmin, which offers a range of models to fit different budgets and needs. The Forerunner 35 is a great option for beginners, as it has GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and a variety of training features to help you improve your performance.
Another brand to consider is Polar, which also offers a range of running watches. The Polar M200 is a good choice for beginners, as it has built-in GPS, heart rate monitoring, and personalized training guidance.
Ultimately, the best watch for a beginner runner will depend on their specific needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as budget, features, and design when choosing a watch. Doing research and reading reviews can also be helpful in making an informed decision.
Can a watch be used as a substitute for a coach or training program for beginner runners?
While a watch can certainly be a helpful tool for beginner runners, it cannot fully substitute for a coach or training program. A watch can track time, distance, and pace, allowing runners to monitor their progress and set goals. However, a coach or training program can provide personalized guidance, motivation, and structured workouts tailored to the runner's individual needs and goals. Coaches can also offer valuable feedback on form, nutrition, and injury prevention. Additionally, a coach can provide accountability and support, helping runners stay committed and on track. While a watch can certainly enhance a runner's training, it is not a replacement for the guidance and expertise of a coach or training program.
How can I use a watch to track my progress and improve my running performance as a beginner?
As a beginner, using a watch to track your progress can be an effective way to improve your running performance. The first step is to invest in a sports watch that has the necessary features for tracking your running performance. Look for a watch that can track your distance, pace, heart rate, and other important metrics.
Once you have your watch, start by setting realistic goals for yourself. For example, you might aim to run a certain distance or improve your pace over a certain time period. Use your watch to track your progress and adjust your goals as you go.
During your runs, pay attention to your watch and use the data it provides to make adjustments to your pace and effort level. If you're running too fast, your watch will help you slow down and conserve energy. If you're running too slow, your watch can help you pick up the pace.
In addition to tracking your progress during runs, use your watch to monitor your recovery. Pay attention to your heart rate and use it as a guide for how hard to push yourself during your next workout.
Overall, using a watch to track your running performance can be a valuable tool for beginners looking to improve their fitness and achieve their running goals.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using a watch for running as a beginner?
When it comes to running with a watch, there are a few mistakes that beginners often make. Firstly, wearing the wrong type of watch can be a common mistake – a dress watch, for example, is not going to be suitable for running. It's important to choose a watch that is specifically designed for use during exercise, with features such as a stopwatch, GPS, and heart rate monitor.
Another mistake to avoid is not setting up the watch correctly. Make sure you input your height, weight, and other relevant information into the watch to get accurate readings. Additionally, not using the watch to monitor your heart rate can also be a mistake. Knowing your heart rate during exercise can help you stay within your target heart rate zone, which is crucial for effective training.
Finally, not using the watch to track your progress over time is also a mistake. By keeping track of your running times and distances, you can set goals and monitor your progress, which can be highly motivating. Remember to use the watch as a tool to help you improve your running, rather than just as a timekeeper.
What features should I look for when choosing a watch for beginner running?
When choosing a watch for beginner running, there are several features that you should consider. Firstly, you need to look for a watch that has GPS tracking capabilities. This feature will enable you to track your running route and distance accurately. Secondly, you should look for a watch with a heart rate monitor. This feature will allow you to monitor your heart rate and adjust your pace accordingly.
Another important feature to consider is the watch's water resistance. As a beginner runner, you may encounter rain or sweat, and a water-resistant watch will ensure that it stays functional despite these weather conditions. Additionally, you should look for a watch with a comfortable strap that fits your wrist well. This will ensure that you can wear the watch for extended periods without experiencing discomfort.
Lastly, you should consider the battery life of the watch. A long-lasting battery will allow you to track your runs without needing to recharge the watch frequently. These are some of the key features that you should look for when choosing a watch for beginner running.