I only run when I feel like it. Or when I’m being chased. I only tell you that so you know the source for this product report. You won’t find me pounding the pavement when the rain is pouring down or lacing up when the temperature dips. However, I do enjoy running when time and conditions permit. Enter two GPS-based products that promise to act as a virtual kick in the butt. As Global Positioning Systems have become more affordable and portable, the technology has busted out of the automobile and become “wearable.”

Whether you’re away for business or pleasure, these devices are sure to have you jogging far beyond the hotel lobby. So next time you find yourself on-the-go in a strange city, you’ll be able to find your way back “home.”

First up, the Forerunner 305 from the GPS giant, Garmin.

Cool: Out of the box (after charging), the device could not be easier to use. Just strap it on and go. It functions like a standard watch, allowing you to toggle between screens with ease. A large watch face clearly displays information in an array of formats that would make any cartographer happy.

Speed, distance, heart rate (if you wear the included monitor) and calories can all be shown on-screen, and this information can be saved. At home, you can plug the watch into your computer via its USB cable hookup and download the stats from your exercise session into the included Garmin Training Center.

Interactive graphs will get you racing again, this time as you analyze your pace, the course’s elevation and other captured data. View your workout on a map, save it as an online diary, or, for you über-competitive types, upload the info to MotionBased.com, Garmin’s Web-based application that allows you to share your training stats and challenge other runners

Cruel: While the Forerunner 305 can be billed as an exercise motivator, it might be lighter to actually strap a personal trainer to your wrist. Okay, that might be extreme, but the gadget is not for the weak-wristed. It’s one big watch that will get noticed.

I also had some difficulty with the “high sensitivity” GPS receiver. Maybe it was only my neck of the woods, but I found that I could not connect to any satellites outside of my building. It was necessary to travel about a mile before I could get a solid lock. However, once connected, I’m please to report, it stayed that way.

With a full charge, the battery life lasts approximately six to eight hours before it requires further recharging with the included cradle and plug.

The Final Word: Despite it’s large size, I found the Forerunner 305 chock full of easy-to-use features that actually motivated me to run more often. This item will also appeal to true fitness gurus who want to track every last detail of their exercise routine.

Next up, the Timex Trail Runner Body Link.

Cool: The device is a lightweight and attractive timepiece that can be worn anytime, anywhere. Simultaneous display of heart rate and speed, along with distance data, crams a ton of data on to the watch face. However, you also have the option to hide information, depending on your preference.

The GPS functionality registers latitude, longitude and altitude, along with ascent and descent rates, allowing you to study your run upon completion. I found this helpful to rethink my routes, choosing either more elevated or flatter trails, depending on my training mood.

The battery does not require charging, and, according to the manufacturer, should last two years. It was nice not having to worry about the watch conking out mid-run.

Cruel: The GPS antenna is a stand alone device that is secured by a strap on your upper arm. Aside from worrying that it could fall off during exercise (some heavy-duty Velcro would be nice), it also means that you need to have both pieces with you if you decide to take an impulsive jog.

The watch face is a nice size to tell the time. However, when you are huffing and puffing past your third mile (guilty as charged!), I found it somewhat difficult to read.

The optional data recorder is needed if you want to save your watch records beyond the last several runs. While true gadget geeks might chalk this up as a negative, I didn’t mind logging the information the old fashioned way—with pen and paper.

The Final Word: This is a highly functional watch with an affordable price tag. If you’re not looking for tons of bells and whistles, but simply want to track specific elements of your workout, the Timex Trail Runner Body Link is a nice fit. 

GARMIN Forerunner 305
Suggested Retail Price: $376

Timex Trail Runner Body Link
Suggested Retail Price: $299