A different kind of arms race

In recent times, we’ve become addicted to having a stream of data on our wrists. So much so, that it’s now difficult for many of us to go hiking, running, swimming or cycling without having that one piece of tech that gives the feedback on our training. The good news is that this tech is only getting better. And since winter is on its way out, it’s time to lose those Christmas calories, the smart way. We’ve picked three GPS sport watches that can keep a close eye on how hard you train. These watches are not available directly in India, but you can always have them shipped via Amazon or eBay’s global portals.

With plenty of expertise in navigation technology, TomTom’s sports watch is a must-have device for serious athletes. Unlike most of the competition, the TomTom Runner Cardio comes with an in-built heart-rate monitor, eliminating the need to wear a chest-strap based heart-rate monitor. The optical sensors track the flow of blood right from the wrist itself, and provide crucial information about your training when paired to the smartphone. The Runner Cardio lets you select your intensity of training too, from basic warm-ups to hardcore endurance. TomTom’s Runner Cardio is also waterproof up to 50m, giving it the edge you need for your swimming sessions. The battery works up to 8 hours on a single charge, and the Multi-Sport mode lets triathletes log in their swim, run and cycling data all at once.

$269 onwards

As an update to its flagship GPS and fitness watch models, Fenix 3 now offers a host of features for those who like to run outside the conventional jogging routes. To add ‘adventure’ features, the Fenix 3 now comes with GLONASS satellite reception to complement its GPS to provide even more precise data. It also features new modes such as Auto Climb/Run Switch and Climb Odometer, in addition to the existing set of pedometer modes. The Fenix 3 continues its legacy of being a fully-equipped triathlon watch, with better dynamics such as Swim Metrics and Swim Drill Logging for open water swimming. For running and cycling, it features Running Dynamics and Recovery Check, VO2 Max and Power Meter readings. Combined with the heart-rate monitor (sold separately) it can work both indoors and outdoors, and a new UltraTrack mode extends the battery life to almost 50 hours. It also features a new technicolour display.

$499 onwards

The Ambit3 is Suunto’s first product with Bluetooth Smart compatibility, and it also brings in a sturdier construction, at a premium. With its own Suunto Connected Family, the Ambit3 acts as the perfect liaison between your body and your smartphone, worn on the wrist. Along with the usual triathlon features, the Ambit3 Peak and Ambit3 Sport come with specialized features for running, cycling and swimming. If you sync with Movescount.com, it helps you track your fitness regimes and compare it with your friends, or even make your own regime and share it. The Ambit3 Peak provides barometric information, altimeter with FusedAltiTM, storm alarm, sunrise/sunset and a battery life of up to 50 hours with GPS. It can also generate 3D maps for you, and share your photos synced with your training data. The Ambit3 Peak variant also features a sapphire mineral overlay on the display, for extra toughness.

$400 onwards

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