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12 Running Resolutions for 2012 - Part IX


By Bob Cooper

NINTH RESOLUTION: Figure Out My Watch

Whether you picked that fancy running watch for its "bling" look or its cool features, you probably only use the clock time and running time. But you should get your money's worth. Most running watches include an interval timer (for timing speedwork and walk breaks) and a running log option (to store workout data). Some also have GPS capabilities (see "Clock Wise," page 97). But with incomprehensible instructions, it's understandable you haven't bothered to open the manual, says Schuyler Schuster, an equipment guru at Fleet Feet Sports in Hartford, Connecticut.

MAKE IT HAPPEN
Schuster says your best bet is to not leave the store until you've asked the staff to walk you through the motions of at least your top two functions. Then ask them to show you any cool extras they love about the watch that most people are unaware of. For example, he says many runners are surprised to discover they can set alarms for drink and gel reminders, or that some recent models are capable of storing data for two runners. Already left the building? That's why the Internet was invented. At runnersworld.com/watches you'll find easy how-to videos of the models shown in this issue. For older watches, go to YouTube and type the name of the model into the search bar. "Even the most obscure watch has short tutorials showing how to change settings and use all the features," he says. And if you're still stuck, our own Ask Miles says, "just use a simpler watch."

DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY 2

This is the year I will...

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