Got a FitBit but need more?
Want a relatively inexpensive GPS
device?
Try the Garmin Vivoactive!
I did, so that I can tell you all about
it...
To set the scene, I run a bit...I have
a fully featured Garmin 310XT running watch for running cycling and
swimming. The 310 is quite big but fully featured with ability to
create and upload routes and workouts and I do still love it. But not
everyone wants or can afford the full-on versions. I also have a
basic fitbit - but often my clients you need need a bit more than
that device. So, there is the Vivoactive.
I bought mine second-hand from another
runner who had hardly used it in the year she had owned it. It was
easy to set-up, that is, connect to my phone and 'Garmin connect'
apps. I decided to take it on holiday with me as I did not plan to
take my dress watch and whilst my Garmin would be good as we were
skiing as I say it is bulky.
The watch is easy to use in it's basic
forms, as a watch or simple GPS. I did have to look up how to set
intervals but once you know how to do this it is easy. With two
buttons only and touch screen swipe for options the device seems
quite intuitive and far more so than my husband's Garmin GPS watch
which constantly puzzles both of us as to where to find settings.
There are settings for walking, golf,
running and swimming as well as indoor modes for use with a foot pod.
It will connect to my heart rate monitor (I already have this so did
not buy the HR version of the Vivoactive) although I have not done
this yet as I found the HR band battery to be flat.
It is very quick to acquire the GPS
'lock', much quicker than the other watches we have at home. This
could be as I have the sensor on standby most of the time I suspect
whereas my other devices remain switched off until they are needed.
The battery life is very good in watch
mode and in 'active' mode it has lasted for my runs to date, however
I have not gone past two hours so far whilst wearing it. It also
charges quickly.
Although I had planned to sell the
device after writing this blog I am now going to hang onto it! I like
knowing who is calling or what emails and updates are reaching my
phone before I pick it up and this watch does this very well and it
works well for basic training runs. I have 'customised' it with a
downloadable face - there are lots on the Garmin site, although I
have shown the default face in the image.
I recommend this device to those who
have an active life and need more than a fitbit but don't want to
carry or wear several devices or spend several hundred pounds on a
full GPS or even an Apple watch.
