Can a smart watch replace me carrying my phone?

ChasingtheWelshdream

Hi, I’m not sure if this is possible, I have never owned a fit or smart watch.

I’m working through C25K and currently carrying my iphone with some ear buds. I did try a phone holder that wraps around my arm but it kept slipping and was uncomfortable so I’m wondering what other options there are.

I have seen people running with ear pods who don’t seem to have a phone with them and I am wondering how. Is there something I can buy that would replace my phone?

I would like to be able to play music, c25k app and something like Strava. Is that a thing? If so, would someone be able to point me in the right direction please?

Thanks

DullGreyGuy

If you have an AppleWatch with mobile data then it can stream and it operates standalone very well. If you have the non-mobile data version then it only has internet access when near the phone so can still do a lot of things but not as good in isolation. 

You're best checking apps capabilities on the watch as they may be more limited than on a phone. Apple Music works fine, found Spotify not to be great on streaming but fine on downloaded files (watch doesnt have vast storage though). There is an app called C25k and Strava that state they run on Apple Watch but have no experience of either of them. 

Apple have their any reason returns policy so if you buy direct you could try it out; obvs watch out for minimum contract etc if you add your watch to a mobile contract etc. 

flaneurs_lobster

I'm not an iPhone user but it sounds like an Apple Watch would cover what you want. There are versions of C25K, Strava and the usual music/podcast apps for the watch, these tend to be cut-down versions of the full phone apps that synch with the phone versions when they are next in proximity. 

The 4G version of the watch would allow calls and other data transfer by mobile data, how easily this works alongside your current phone plan need to be checked with your mobile carrier.

Emmia

I never got on with arm straps, but I got a running belt with a phone sized pouch which works well for me with Bluetooth headphones.

I've got a similar one to this 
https://amzn.eu/d/eeCMfTQ

Grumpy_chap

As well as the running belt option (which is what I use, but not the exact same one as Emmia), there are various running shorts available that include a phone pocket and I find this can work well also.  With both the belt and short pocket options, check that the phone will fit the pocket before purchase (some phones are larger than the pockets / pockets smaller than the phone) and also select one with a zip for security.

Applewatch is an expensive option.  Some of the Garmin (and, I assume, other brands) fitness trackers include music options where you can download music to the phone before setting out to then listen while you run.  Ensure that you get a device with built in GPS, so it can track your run data without you also carrying the phone.

With the belt or arm straps, to avoid slipping, the straps need to be tight.

ButterCheese

Emmia said:

I never got on with arm straps, but I got a running belt with a phone sized pouch which works well for me with Bluetooth headphones.

I've got a similar one to this 
https://amzn.eu/d/eeCMfTQ

Yes I was going to suggest that.  branded smartwatches (i.e. apple or samsung) are very expensive to have what is essentially an extension of your phone on your wrist.  You can get cheap android watches, never had one but I'd imagine they are fairly limted.  A phone is still the best, cheapest and most powerful mobile device you can get so it makes sense to me to use it and find a more comfortable carrying method. Either get a belt/holster which will hold a phone, or buy a cycling t-shirt (they have deep pockets in the back so nothing can fall out)

Zinger549

You could try something like  the freetrain vest. It has a pouch in the middle to hold your phone. 

x_raphael_xx

Grumpy_chap said:

Some of the Garmin (and, I assume, other brands) fitness trackers include music options where you can download music to the phone before setting out to then listen while you run.  Ensure that you get a device with built in GPS, so it can track your run data without you also carrying the phone.

I have the garmin Forerunner 165, it has 2 versions, one that does this where you can load songs to it to run without your phone.

I went with the cheaper one without this feature, as I always carry my phone with me, and it was still pricey at £250.

I love it though and wear it as an everyday watch/step tracker etc

You can set up a run training program, and you can also get a live tracker emailed to someone when you start a run. You can set the garmin to upload stats to strava, although it's got its own activity log.

One of my favourite features is the race predictor, which will estimate your 5k, 10k, half marathon and full marathon finish times based on your training. 

I can't get on with the arm bands, I just use bluetooth headphones and slip my phone in my pocket, or in my bumbag on my longer runs.

Grumpy_chap

x_raphael_xx said:

I have the garmin Forerunner 165,

I have the Vivoactive 4 (the latest is the 5) which also has the music and non-music versions.  It does not have all the features you mentioned, but probably sufficient for the OP's needs and about half the cost of the Forerunner.

I am actually thinking of the Forerunner series next and unsure which of the range is needed - the 165 is towards the lower end but, from your description, sounds like it would meet what I need.  If not a Forerunner, I am tempted by the Venu 3 (no idea whether that has a music option).
I have never had a watch with the music option as I like to run and enjoy the natural sounds of the birds singing, wind rustling in the trees, and water flowing in the stream.  It makes running more of an escape from everyday.

The best thing for the OP is to look at the options available and select the device that suits their fancy.

ChasingtheWelshdream

Thank you all, that gives me some
ideas. Along with what kind of budget I would set myself. I don’t like wearing a watch ordinarily, so I am now wondering whether it would be an extravagance too far simply for runs. I will look into the suggestions though and see where it takes me.

I think there may be a random running belt of sorts in the house somewhere actually! If I can find it, that would be a good shout.  I could also look at some clothes with pockets. I am somewhat on the large size,  so have been wearing leggings and the biggest baggiest t-shirt I can find, but maybe it is time to look at their options as I (hopefully) shrink over the next few months.

Thanks all!!!

Grumpy_chap

ChasingtheWelshdream said:

I don’t like wearing a watch ordinarily, so I am now wondering whether it would be an extravagance too far simply for runs. 

There are fitness watches available at competitive prices if you search - I actually have one from John Lewis "open box" which was a bargain £45.  Worth a look in store to see what is available (and with the built-in GPS plus music).

ChasingtheWelshdream said:

I could also look at some clothes with pockets. 

You could do worse than look at the Parkrun collections for ideas.  The small number of options avoids being overwhelmed by choice.