Today’s GPS watches offer a little more than just pace and distance tracking, as most come equipped with computer-generated virtual coaching that creates personalized plans based on your training history, daily routine and sleep data. But how effective are they? Should you trust your watch to guide your training, or is it better to seek coaching elsewhere?
If you’ve never used your watch’s training plan, one of the biggest perks is that it’s free and quite easy to set up. On apps like Garmin or Coros, all you need to do is input your race distance, goal time and event date, and the watch generates a structured plan tailored to help you reach your objective. The convenience factor is hard to beat—you can start any time, and the watches even provide last-minute tips for races just a couple of weeks away (for all you crammers).
Another advantage is the plans’ adaptability. These programs analyze your training load and recovery metrics, making adjustments based on your fitness trends. For example, if you’ve had a rough night with only three or four hours of sleep, your watch might suggest prioritizing rest instead of pushing through a hard 10K run. Similarly, if you struggle with a speed workout or two, the program will recalibrate, and then modify upcoming sessions.
When it comes to understanding the nuances of training, despite having (what they call) a smartwatch on your wrist, most GPS watches still have limitations. One major drawback is their inability to assess relative effort, which analyzes how hard a workout feels, rather than how fast or long it actually is. Training for a race is about more than just hitting numbers; it’s about listening to your body and assessing and communicating how you are feeling–and that’s something a computer can’t do as well as a coach.
Another limitation is that, while these watch plans may seem personalized, they’re still fairly generic. The results show that they work well for runners tackling their first 5K or half-marathon, especially those who are hesitant to spend hundreds of dollars on a personal coach after already spending a similar amount on a GPS watch, race entries and running shoes. If you’re aiming for a competitive time or an elite bib at your local half-marathon, a more tailored approach from a coach may be the better option.
Whether you use your watch’s virtual coaching plan or not, one thing remains certain: race day success depends on consistency and holding yourself accountable. Although your watch or coach can guide you, the drive and effort have to come from within.
