Running is arguably the most popular form of exercise, with essential gear consisting of just two feet and a heartbeat.
However, on top of those basic anatomic necessities, there is a growing list of electronic gear and support to maximize a runner’s performance.
Bill Roblee has been running for 35 years and counts himself among a growing community of runners using a GPS watch to enhance results.
"It has a map function on it so I can follow back and not get lost. It measures miles. It measures terrain. So, it really comes in handy when you are trying to see how you are doing and just to keep track of everything you do,” says Roblee.
“As an older runner, it’s to my benefit if I can stay consistent in how I am running, the speed and a GPS watch gives me my rate, right them, my rate every kilometre, just breaks it all up for me.”
Many of the watches also keep track of key data, such as altitude and heart rate, based on calorie consumption. The results can easily be uploaded to the Internet, which has spawned online running communities.
"You can challenge your friend in Vancouver to see who will be the first to run 30 kilometres that week," says Running Room manager Bruce Bowen. “You can program in specific workouts, either with a training program or with a coach. You can determine what pace you want to be running at every single day of the week."
The price of GPS watches range from $60 to almost $500. Bowen says he is impressed with watches in the $100 range.
"I've played around with one of those and I find it works perfectly well because it's giving me the feedback I want," says Bowen.
The new technology can certainly chart and help you get better results, but if you ask Bowen what the most important equipment is, it's still older technology.
"A good pair of shoes," says Bowen.
With files from CTV Atlantic's Jayson Baxter
