I read about running with a metronome and wanted to try it. Supposedly the optimum cadence for running efficiently is 90 (or 180 footfalls per minute). So I bought a small Seiko DM50 metronome that I could clip onto my treadmill. So far running to beeping of the metronome seems to be working. I am also adjusting other elements of my running form.
I have a few races coming up: an off-road duathlon, a half marathon, and a full marathon. I am not planning on using a metronome in the duathlon. But I want to try it in the half and full marathon. I tried to figure out how to take the little clip on metronome with me, but feared killing it with sweat, or having it pop off while I am running. I checked to see if my Garmin 305 had a metronome function, but not that I can tell. I search around for other options. I found a metronome watch named “Feel The Beat”. It has the advantage of having a vibration mode which would be nice. I think other runners might get annoyed at a persistent beeping for 13.1/26.2 miles. The watch should come this week, and I will give it a shot on the treadmill to see how it works. I am hoping it will give me an edge in hitting my Boston Marathon qualifying time of 3:30!

Posted by Rob in Running on October 16th, 2007 |