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TFS Review: Timex IRONMAN Bodylink GPS System

Posted February 15th, 2007 at 12:30 PM by Paul Petersen

Section: Running & Training, Gear & Apparel, Gadgets & Acces., Product Reviews, Special Features, TFS Reviews

Product: Timex IRONMAN Bodylink System
Price: $275.00
Rating: Very Good 8.3/10.0
Pros: Accurate; stable GPS; good battery life; intuitive and easy to use; great watch features; good value
Cons: Data-logger & PC upload functionality not included; GPS external from watch; HR monitor unstable at times
Overall: This device is effective because it is easy and it works. GPS initialization is fast and reliable; GPS connection and accuracy is very stable. It’s best for runners who want to hit the road quickly and view results immediately. Analysis and mapping junkies may want to defer to a GPS unit that automatically comes with computer linkage - but otherwise, when it comes to reliability, value and simplicity, the Timex Bodylink is hard to beat.

Out of the box, the Bodylink comes with a beefy manual, the performance watch, the heart rate sensor, the speed + distance sensor (GPS), and an adjustable strap for the mounting the GPS on your arm. Despite neglecting to read any of the ample instruction manual, I had the watch and GPS figured out within minutes and was out the door. Before I even hit the road, the primary strength of the Bodylink System was evident: it’s ease of use.
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TFS Review: MotionLingo’s Adeo GPS Fitness Trainer

Posted February 12th, 2007 at 10:00 AM by Paul Petersen

Section: Gear & Apparel, Gadgets & Acces., Product Reviews, Special Features, TFS Reviews

MotionLingo’s Adeo has garnered much attention this year as an innovative GPS-based fitness trainer that not only tracks your speed and distance, but also accommodates full integration with any mp3 player.

I have run with many other GPS products, but the Adeo is the first to provide workout feedback via audio messages rather than a visual watch interface. This sounded like a great idea to me right off the bat and I enjoyed putting putting the Adeo to the test.

Product: MotionLingo Adeo Fitness Trainer
Price: $149.95
Rating: Good 7.1/10.0
Pros: Hands-free GPS updates; Works with all mp3 players; Lightweight; Considerably more affordable than other GPS units, Easy to configure workouts and view data; Rapidly-evolving online training log; Affordable cost compared to other fitness GPS units; Multisport support; Excellent, frequently updated software package
Cons: Often takes several minutes to connect with satellites; Unstable, GPS connection could be improved; Small, unresponsive buttons
Overall: The Adeo is a very innovative and exciting concept; one that true audiophiles will want to immediately add to their running rig. However, others may want to wait for the next generation of Adeos (to be released later this spring) because like most first generation products, there are a few issues (i.e. - GPS performance) that could use an upgrade.

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TFS’s Top Picks of 2006
Gear and Accessories

Posted December 22nd, 2006 at 12:00 PM by Adam Jacobs

Section: Announcements, Running & Training, Injury & Rehab, Gear & Apparel, Gadgets & Acces., Miscellaneous, Product Reviews, Sports Medicine, Special Features, Health & Fitness, Injury & Rehab, Exercise, TFS Reviews, TFS Top Picks

Want the gear that will go the furthest, last the longest and do the most to improve your performance? Want to buy the perfect holiday gift for the runner in your family? Want the newest, most advanced training tools on the market?

Then look no further! The Final Sprint’s Top Picks of 2006 is your ultimate guide to running gadgets, hydration devices and much more! We have put hours into testing and comparing each of these items and take pride in recommending each of our top picks.

TRAINING SYSTEMS (HRM + Training Assistant)

Overall

Top Pick: Polar / adidas Project Fusion

Best Value: Timex IRONMAN Bodylink System

GPS Training System

Top Pick: Garmin Forerunner 305

Non-GPS Training System

Top Pick: Polar / adidas Project Fusion