Watch for beginner runner

I am just starting to run.  Most of the programs I have seen recommend walking for a set number of minutes and then running for a set number.

I can see myself now - trying to sqint at the second hand on my watch and running into a tree or right over a child on a tricycle!

Does anyone have any better suggestions?  I was thinking of getting a watch that beeps every minute so i only have to listen for the right number of beeps or some sort of watch that can beep at different intervals - every 3 minutes then every one minute.  Does that exist?

Thanks!

I have one I got from Walgreens for 10$ that has a built in stopwatch and has REALLY BIG digital numbers on the face, so they are easy to read. 

Before that I actually used a really small kitchen timer! It worked really well actually, ( I may go back to using it actually) it was only about 1inch by 2 inches big and had a small clip on the back so i could just clip it to the hem of my shirt or hang from a lanyard around my neck. It gave a nice loud beep and was easy enough to use even when I was really winded.

When I was walking, I kept a pedometer on my waistline and checked the time on it.  When I started Learn to Run (walk/run) I warm up according to the clock and then I start the stopwatch feature and hold it up so that I'm not looking down.  It works really well and it helps me gauge my progress.  This pedometer was $20. 

If you pick a route that you like to run, then I would say walk from "here to that corner" then run to "that far tree" sometimes distances are good as well. YOu can gauge your progress by how far you can run vs how far you were walking.

I also just started running outside and not on a treadmill.  I ran/jogged to a certain point and back home which measured to  be just a mile.  The next time my goal was to just run a tiny bit futher even if its just to the next house, turn around and go back.  you can measure the distance with your car :) 

What about making your own similar pattern......walk for one song, run for two songs

or, like kristicro says, run for one street lights walk for three.....

I think its the consistency that is important in ensuring that you don't overdo it,

that you have small attainable goals,

and that you maintain a consistent improvement in distance.

I followed c25k and I know there are ipod/mp3 downloads with the intervals all set up, free to download....like coaching in your own ear.  I made my own shortened or lengthened songs with an mp3 editor, when the song changed, I would switch from running or walking -- that was QUITE a bother, though.

here are the podcasts.:

http://www.ullreys.com/robert/Podcasts/page4/ files/category-7.html

Another good watch is the MIO watch.  It also takes your pulse and will output calories burned.

You input your age, weight, resting heart rate and it is supposed to be very accurate.

I recommend a running watch--one with a timer and everything.  I use timex ironman triatholon, 40$.  I wear it everyday, in the shower, to bed, you name-- I definitely get my money's worth.

If you are really serious about getitng into running, you may want to invest in a Garmin Forerunner.  The basic model is the Garmin Forerunner 50.  Garmins have the interval beeps that you desire as well as plenty of other great options for keeping you on track.

 

Works for me :)