Okay, f.a.t. sisters I have a couple new gadgets to tell you about that will aid you in your running and other workouts. And since I’m not quite as gadget-phobic as Suzy, I volunteered to do the research on these babies!

The Garmin 405 Forerunner is now on my Christmas list. A running friend of mine just got one so I was able to check it out a bit. With this watch, you can track your speed, pace, mileage, calories burned, and distance, and it weighs about as much as a handful of nickels. No more. No less.

What gal doesn’t want to know that when she has burned enough calories to get a venti pumpkin latté instead of a tall!!! You can also download the information on your computer so that you can track your progress, store and analyze your workout. This is perfect, because once you understand where and when your run or walk is going downhill you make adjustments to your pace and routing. It really takes your training to the next level. You know, “Knowledge is Power”!

Besides monitoring and logging speed, distance, heart rate and location, the 405 also features a touch-sensitive bezel for controlling its various functions. It comes in either black or green, and costs around $299. Here’s where I think their marketing people are missing the boat. I think I need to write the Garmin guys and tell them that ladies love pink. I mean really, wouldn’t a pink Garmin be cute? Considering how many Fit After Thirty women will be using it, maybe they should make it in pink and brown!

Timex is also featuring a GPS watch called the Trail Runner. It features heart rate, speed, and distance using highly accurate GPS technology. About $300 as well. I’ve heard it is as good as the Garmin, though I have not had a chance to use it personally. If any of you gals have, please let us know your thoughts on it!!