How to Train for the Garmin Forerunner 205

The Forerunner 205 includes a GPS feature to monitor location and distance.

The Garmin Forerunner 205 is a personal trainer with a GPS system and workout features. The GPS antenna is part of the wristwatch, allowing it to point towards the sky and receive a strong GPS signal. The Forerunner also includes workout distance, pace and time alerts to allow users to compete against themselves or a virtual partner. The data screens offer workout feedback and can be downloaded to a computer for use with the Garmin software or online communities. Using the Garmin Forerunner to train is possible with several different features on the device.

Instructions

1. Charge the battery and place the heart rate strap around the chest. Go outdoors to a clear space and press the "Power" button to turn on the Forerunner and acquire a GPS signal.

2. Press the "Mode" button on the lower left-hand side of the device to change to the "Training" mode.

3. Select "Alerts" and then "Time/Dist Alert" in order to set a time or distance alert while training. When "Time Alert" is displayed, pick "Once" or "Repeat" and then enter a time or distance in the "Alert At" field. Press the "Mode" button again to exit. Use this feature when setting a certain time or distance goal while training.

4. Set the "Pace/Speed Alert" to sound an alert if a set speed or pace is exceeded or dropped during a workout. Press "Mode" and select "Training," then "Training Options" and "Alerts" followed by "Pace (Speed) Alert." Select a pace zone from the menu or pick "Custom" to enter in a desired pace. Repeat to set an alert if the pace drops below a select level. Press the "Mode" button to exit.

5. Turn on "Auto Pause" if you will encounter stop lights or other pauses during the workout. Press "Mode," followed by "Training" then "Training Options" and then "Auto Pause." Select "When Stopped" for the device to hold during any pauses and resume when the pace resumes. Press "Mode" to exit.

6. Select "Auto Lap" in the "Training Options" menu to start a new lap after a predetermined distance has been met. Select "By Distance" in the "Auto Lap" menu to pick a value at which the new lap will be started. The "By Position" option can be used to start a new lap when a certain landmark is passed. Choose "Lap Press Only" if you wish to start a new lap only when you press the "Lap" button, or "Mark and Lap" if you wish to start a new lap at a certain mark or when you press the "Lap" button.

7. Use the "Virtual Partner" to view an automatic figure during your workouts that is competing with you. The "Virtual Partner" option can be chosen in the "Training Options" menu.

8. Enter workout values in the "Training Options" menu under "Workouts" and then "Quick Workouts." Values include time and distance and will provide alerts when the desired time, pace and distance are met. Press "Start" to begin the workout.

9. Choose "Interval" from the "Workouts" option in the "Training" menu to set up distance, time, pace and rest intervals. Enter in the desired values and the number of times you wish to repeat each interval in the "Reps" field. Press "Start" to begin the workout.

References

• Garmin: Forerunner 205
• Garmin: Forerunner 205 User Manual