The market for training computers and fitness wristbands is quite crowded and confusing. However, we can recommend three products in particular. They have already proven themselves in long-term use and offer the most important data for training planning and much more. Garmin and Polar allow you to install customised apps, while the "Fenix3" offers almost all the functions of a GPS navigation watch with altimeter, compass and all the bells and whistles - you can spend a long time reading the manual. The Garmin Fenix 3 is the first GPS training computer specifically for SUP, with very good data recording including stroke count and even distance per stroke and the most extensive options. In comparison, the Polar M 400 is a good and affordable entry-level option and particularly easy to use - for those who prefer paddling to programming. After training, you plug the device into your laptop and - whoosh - you get an animation of your training with the most important parameters played back on Google Earth. Finally, the Speed Coach is mounted on the board like a speedometer and clearly displays your performance data, including your stroke rate. It's not so comfortable to wear on your wrist, but it's the only device on the market that shows you everything you need to know about paddling, from speed to stroke frequency, and allows you to correct your speed or technique in real time.
We asked three experienced paddlers who have been training with the three tools presented here for some time about their experiences. All of them believe that the use of technology enables more targeted training control and therefore more effective, better training overall.
Klaus Dedial, Prien am Chiemsee: NK Speed Coach SUP Model II
What can you do with it? Basically, you can of course use the Speed Coach for all water sports. I use it for SUPing, outrigger paddling and surf skiing. In addition to the speed, "strokes per minute", "distance per stroke" and the average speed are the biggest aids for my training.
What could be better? It would be a great improvement if the coach could float. Ideally, there would be room for a fifth feature on the display. I haven't used the data transfer feature myself because my PC didn't recognise the Coach. My daughter was able to connect it to her laptop, but doesn't actively use it. For her, the data can only be saved on the PC in formats that are difficult to open.
How often do I use it? I use it every time I go out on the water, so on average four times a week.
Why do I use this technique? Of course, I generally expect an increase in performance and more effective paddling. The fact that the Speed Coach provides consistently accurate data means I can use it as an actual trainer.
Price from 473 EuroInfo www.nkhome.com/rowing-sports
Armin Zeitler, Munich: Polar M400 The heart rate monitor is a daily (training) companion: alarm clock, waterproof sports watch, GPS, live tracker, heart rate monitor, all combined in one device, connected via Bluetooth, range up to 20 metres. The watch can be programmed online (tablet, PC, mobile phone) and provides an acoustic signal when leaving the target heart rate range - ideal for paddling and running. The display can be permanently illuminated. Easy to charge via mini-USB, with live tracker and modern design, ideal for wearing in the office. Very easy to connect to my mobile phone with the Polar app via Bluetooth. I define my training each week in advance on the computer - like a timetable - and then load it onto the Polar watch. Training planning is simple and intuitive via the web interface, as is the subsequent training analysis. Unfortunately, there is still no "SUP" sport symbol. Nevertheless, I use the watch three to four times a week for SUP training and once a week for running. I particularly like the very simple and intuitive training planning and analysis as well as the automatic training diary.
Price 199.95 Euro + price 69.95 Euro Heart rate beltInfo www.polar.com
Marek Fuhrmann, Oberhausen: Garmin Fenix®
This is a GPS multisport watch. So for running, hiking, paddling, cycling and - the special thing - especially for us SUPers. You can use the watch as a normal timepiece and at the same time connect it to your mobile phone as a smart watch. This means that the watch displays messages (WhatsApp, SMS, e-mail), incoming calls, missed calls, etc. on the watch. You can view all kinds of data on your mobile phone, or even better on your PC, in very nice graphics. In conjunction with the heart rate sensor, I get all the relevant data while paddling: Distance, pace, heart rate, speed etc., but the most important thing: The paddle strokes per minute and also the propulsion per stroke. I always use the watch when paddling, it's always on my wrist. What is particularly important to me: I can see very clearly how the number of strokes relates to speed, propulsion and heart rate.
Price 599 EuroInfo www.nkhome.com/rowing-sports
