[I looked for a different forum for this question, and I chose F5x, since I have one, and also since my question is geared slightly towards ultra/trail runners, and we tend to have the F5x]
Hi. I've had a long line of Garmin devices. Recently F2, F3, now F5x. I used HRM straps for a long time, until I had trouble with chaffing, and gave it up for awhile. In the "time off" from straps, I grew away from needing that HR data, but still like some of the running dynamics data. Not hard core on it, but very interesting. Specifically ground contact L/R balance. So I started wearing the (blue) HRMtri strap (using 3M micropore tape to avoid the chaff). So I should be happy. Except I stop "liking" wearing the strap. so I ordered this pod from CT. It should come today. But in the past few days I've been reading alot on the stryd. And its got me very interested. More data than I believe I care for. It doesnt have the ground contact balance. but having use running by HR in the past, to running with RPE these days, perhaps running with power is next. I dont get all the data, but running with power sounds like using RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) , but the power data to back up that RPE. Sorta. Also in the back of my mind is the moderate ticked off feeling finishing a 50mile ultra and ending 46miles to 52miles at completion It would be nice to have more accurate distance. Dont really need accurate pace, I look at it, and sometime slow down if its high + RPE being high.
so there is not yet one Pod to rule them all. But if you had to put your $$ in one. Would it be the garmin pod or the stryd (big $$ diffference I know).
For you ultra/trail runners (or others): we know that pace is not that key for non-elites. Terrain, elevation, how technical the trails are, all impact cadence, speed, pace. But at the end of the day. The ultra is about energy management. Eat, Drink right, and manage energy. Dont run the uphills. Take advantage of the flats and some downhills. Some rely on HR data. Others, or maybe, just RPE. If you sense you are spending to much energy, you dial it back. Power possibly could be a quasi-scientific view to help or back that up.
What say you? Fellow runners.. Interested to hear views on Garmin Pod vs Stryd vs ??? just more expensive toys?