A running watch brings your pace, distance, and training progress to your wrist, helping you plan long runs and track daily workouts. Without one, you may rely on a phone, which can track routes and pace but feels bulky to carry and may need frequent checking.
A GPS running watch keeps those details visible as you move. It records distance and pace, so you can follow a marathon plan without holding your phone, while heart-rate tracking helps you gauge effort during easy runs and harder sessions.
Many models offer training plans, lap alerts, and recovery insights, giving you useful cues for pacing and rest. Long battery life can cover extended runs, while water resistance helps the watch handle rain and sweat.
Models vary in GPS accuracy, battery life, comfort, and training tools, so consider your routine and goals. Explore the best running watches for marathon training below to find a watch that supports your miles.
7 Best Running Watches for Marathon Training Reviews
1.Beeasy AW02 50M Waterproof Digital Watch
1/100-second stopwatch and countdown timer run for up to 23 hours
2.Timex Ironman Classic 30 100-Hour Chronograph
100-hour chronograph with 30-lap memory helps track your training runs
3.EZON T031B01 GPS Running Watch with Lap Timer
GPS tracks running distance and pace, saving data for up to 50 laps
4.Garmin Forerunner 245 Music GPS Running Watch
Training status shows when you may be undertraining or overdoing it
5.SOCICO 3328-2 Digital Watch with Timer
Countdown timer runs up to 23 hours 59 minutes with an audible alert
6.GOLDEN HOUR GH-1313 Digital Sports Watch
50M water resistance suits shallow swims and cold showers with care
7.CIVO 8370 50M Waterproof Digital Sports Watch
50M water resistance handles rain, sweat and splashes on outdoor runs
1. Beeasy AW02 50M Waterproof Digital Watch
Beeasy is a basic digital watch for tracking time during runs, with a stopwatch and countdown timer for workout sessions. Its stopwatch measures to 1/100 of a second, while the timer can run for up to 23 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds.
The 44mm watch offers dual time zones and a choice of 12- or 24-hour time. Its automatic calendar, alarm and hourly chime help with everyday scheduling, and the backlight makes the display easier to check in low light.
Water resistance reaches 50 meters, which the listing says suits shallow-water swimming and cold showers. It is not intended for diving or extended underwater use, and the listing advises keeping it away from hot water and steam.
The slim, 7mm case and silicone strap make this black watch suitable for everyday wear as well as running. At about 0.08 pounds, it adds little weight to a running kit.
For marathon training, the stopwatch and countdown timer cover basic timing needs, but the listing gives no GPS or heart-rate tracking details. This watch suits runners who want simple timekeeping and workout timing rather than detailed training data.
- 50-meter water resistance suits shallow-water swimming
- Stopwatch and countdown timer support timed workouts
- 7mm-thin case is comfortable for everyday wear
- Dual time zones and alarms add useful daily functions
- Not suitable for long underwater activities like diving
2. Timex Ironman Classic 30 100-Hour Chronograph
For marathon training runs, the Timex Ironman Classic 30 gives you a 100-hour chronograph with memory for 30 laps. You can track elapsed time and save lap splits across long workouts, while the 24-hour countdown timer helps time training sessions.
Three customizable alarms can mark workouts or daily reminders. The watch also tracks two time zones and shows the day, date and month, which helps with planning runs and keeping daily schedules straight.
Its digital display uses an acrylic lens, and the INDIGLO backlight helps you read the time in low light. That can be useful for early starts or evening runs, when you need to check a split or timer.
The 38mm gray resin case pairs with an adjustable 16mm strap. The watch weighs about 0.05 pounds, making it a light option to wear during training, and its black, digital-gray and gray color scheme keeps the look understated.
The feature set focuses on timing, alarms and calendar details rather than a broad set of running data. It suits runners who want a lightweight digital watch to record laps and time workouts, without needing the watch to provide advanced training information.
- 100-hour chronograph stores up to 30 laps
- 24-hour countdown timer helps time workouts
- Three customizable alarms support daily schedules
- INDIGLO backlight aids low-light time checks
- No major cons
3. EZON T031B01 GPS Running Watch with Lap Timer
99 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds is the stopwatch limit on this EZON running watch, which also records lap data for marathon training. Its GPS tracks outdoor runs, hikes and other activities, with a cold start of about one minute and an instant hot start for reconnecting.
After a run, one button press brings up distance, average pace, calories burned and total time. It keeps the last 10 exercise records, so you can check recent sessions and compare your training data.
The lap timer saves up to 50 laps, including each lap’s time, pace, distance and average speed. Countdown timing is available too, giving runners options for timed workouts and pacing practice.
A built-in GPS receiver sets the time based on the city you choose. You can enter your height, weight, age and gender, then select imperial or metric units for personalized fitness tracking.
The matte black digital watch has 5ATM water resistance for swimming and everyday water exposure. Its alarm chimes for about 20 seconds at the set time and stops when you press any button; avoid using the buttons underwater or wearing it in a sauna.
This watch suits runners who want GPS, pace and lap records for structured training without relying on a phone for workout timing. Its saved records and long stopwatch limit may be useful for marathon plans, while the data does not specify a heart-rate monitor.
- Saves pace, distance and time for 50 laps
- GPS reconnects instantly after a hot start
- Stores the last 10 workout records
- GPS cold start takes about one minute
4. Garmin Forerunner 245 Music GPS Running Watch
Runners who want music and training guidance in one device get both from the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music. Its GPS tracks runs, while training-status feedback helps you see whether your current workload points to undertraining or overdoing it.
Battery life reaches up to 7 days in smartwatch mode, or up to 6 hours with GPS and music running. That makes it useful for tracking everyday activity and carrying music on longer training runs.
Garmin Coach offers free adaptive training plans, and Garmin Connect lets you build custom workouts. The watch also provides running dynamics such as stride length, vertical ratio and ground contact time balance, but those measurements require a separately sold Running Dynamics Pod, HRM Run or HRM Tri monitor.
You can sync with music services such as Spotify to store and play songs from the watch. During select activities, incident detection can send your real-time location to emergency contacts through a paired compatible smartphone.
The black watch has a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 lens, a fiber-reinforced polymer bezel and a silicone strap. At about 0.08 pounds, it keeps weight low on the wrist during training.
Its mix of GPS, music playback and workout guidance suits marathon trainees who want run tracking and training tools in a lightweight watch, with a compatible phone for safety alerts.
- Up to 7 days of battery in smartwatch mode
- Plays Spotify music from the watch on runs
- Garmin Coach offers free adaptive training plans
- Training status flags undertraining or overdoing it
- Advanced running dynamics need a separate monitor
5. SOCICO 3328-2 Digital Watch with Timer
For runs around town, the SOCICO digital watch offers a stopwatch and countdown timer for tracking training sessions. Its stopwatch records elapsed time to 1/100 of a second, while the countdown can run for up to 23 hours and 59 minutes before sounding an alert.
The large 43mm display shows the time, date and watch functions, and its LED backlight helps with readings in dark conditions. That can be useful for early starts, evening runs or checking the time while camping.
You can choose 12-hour or 24-hour time, and set a second time zone for travel. The watch also displays the day of the week when you set the date, with an hourly chime available as a reminder.
Its alarm includes a five-minute snooze option, which may suit runners who set an early wake-up time. The blue watch has a TPU band and weighs about 0.1 pounds.
The watch is water resistant to 30 meters, with the maker listing hand washing, rain splashes and sweat as suitable conditions. It suits runners who want basic timing tools and a backlit display, rather than a watch described with GPS or running-specific tracking features.
- Stopwatch measures elapsed time to 1/100 second
- Countdown timer runs nearly 24 hours with an alert
- Large display and LED backlight aid quick reading
- Dual time zones and 12/24-hour formats offer flexibility
- 30-meter water resistance handles rain and sweat
- No major cons
6. GOLDEN HOUR GH-1313 Digital Sports Watch
The EL backlight display gives this GOLDEN HOUR digital watch a readable time screen in low light. For marathon training, its stopwatch can track timed running sessions, while the date and day help with everyday scheduling.
The watch also offers 12- and 24-hour time formats and an alarm. Its digital display keeps these functions together, so you can check the time, set reminders or time a run without carrying a separate stopwatch.
The case measures about 43 millimeters across and is about 8 millimeters thick. Its adjustable rubber strap fits wrists up to about 9.8 inches around, and the alloy steel case has Hardlex glass.
A 50-meter water-resistance rating makes it suitable for shallow-water swimming and cold showers. The maker advises keeping it away from hot water and steam, and it is not intended for extended underwater activities such as diving.
Its army-green finish and sports-focused functions suit indoor and outdoor activities, including running and climbing. It can work for runners who want a simple digital watch for timing sessions, but the listed features do not include marathon-specific training tools.
- Stopwatch helps time running sessions
- EL backlight helps you read the display
- 50-meter water resistance suits shallow swimming
- Adjustable strap fits wrists up to 9.8 inches
- Not suited to extended underwater activities
7. CIVO 8370 50M Waterproof Digital Sports Watch
CIVO makes this digital watch for runners who want a stopwatch and alarm in a lightweight design. Its stopwatch can time training sessions, while the daily alarm can help keep a workout schedule.
The 44mm dial gives the display a large format, and the case is only about 7mm thin. At about 1.4 ounces, it stays light on the wrist for runs, hikes and everyday wear.
A soft, removable silicone band supports all-day wear and lets you change the strap. The watch also offers a bright LED backlight for checking the time in low light, an hourly chime and a choice of 12- or 24-hour time.
Its 5ATM water resistance is rated to 50 meters, and the listing says it can handle rain, sweat and splashes. It is also suitable for cold showers and water-based recreation, but not hot water, steam, diving or long periods underwater; keep your hands dry before pressing buttons.
This black watch suits runners who want basic timing tools and a large dial rather than a feature-rich training device. As our final pick, it may fit marathon trainees who need a simple stopwatch, but the listed features do not include specialized marathon-training metrics.
- 50-meter water resistance handles rain and sweat
- Stopwatch and alarm support basic training needs
- Lightweight 40.5-gram build for comfortable wear
- Slim 7.2mm case fits easily under clothing
- No major cons
How to Choose the Best Running Watches for Marathon Training
Choosing a marathon watch depends on your training needs, wrist comfort and budget, as well as how much data you want to see. GPS accuracy, battery life, workout tools and water resistance all shape the right choice.
| If You Need | Look For | Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Reliable outdoor pace | Built-in GPS and pace display | More battery use during GPS |
| Long training runs | Long GPS battery rating | Larger battery, often heavier case |
| Structured marathon preparation | Training plans and custom workouts | More setup through a phone app |
| Music without a phone | On-watch music and headphones | Shorter GPS battery life |
| Simple lap timing | Stopwatch and lap memory | Limited training analysis |
| Pool or wet-weather use | Clear water-resistance rating | Not necessarily suitable for diving |
GPS And Pace
Built-in GPS records distance and pace outdoors, so you can judge whether your effort matches your marathon plan. Look for route tracking and a clear pace display; basic digital watches may time laps without measuring distance.
GPS pace can change briefly under trees, beside tall buildings or when the signal first connects. For steadier readings, give the watch time to find satellites before starting and compare recorded distances across familiar routes.
Some watches also estimate distance from arm movement when GPS is unavailable, but that figure depends on setup and running style. If accurate outdoor pacing is central to your training, prioritize GPS over a stopwatch alone.
Battery During GPS
Battery life matters most on long runs and race day, when a watch must keep recording for hours. Compare the stated GPS runtime, not just smartwatch-mode life, because GPS and music drain power faster.
A GPS rating of 10 hours or more gives many marathon runners room for long sessions, delayed starts and post-run data syncing. Runners expecting a finish beyond that should seek a longer rating or simpler recording settings.
Music playback can shorten GPS runtime sharply, so read both figures when you plan to leave your phone behind. Frequent charging may suit daily users, while runners who forget to charge benefit from extra reserve.
Training Tools
Training plans, suggested workouts and custom sessions help turn a race goal into manageable weekly work. Look for plans that match your experience and schedule, plus workout steps such as warm-ups, intervals and recovery periods.
Adaptive plans change sessions in response to progress or missed workouts, while fixed plans follow a set calendar. Choose the simpler format if you already have a coach or established plan; adaptive guidance suits runners wanting more structure.
Workout records should show useful details such as distance, pace and elapsed time. More advanced running metrics often need a compatible chest strap or other sensor, so confirm the extra equipment and cost before relying on those figures.
Music And Phone Needs
On-watch music lets you run without carrying a phone, but it adds setup and usually reduces GPS battery life. Check whether the watch stores music files, syncs supported services, or simply controls playback from a phone.
Wireless headphones may be required, and music-service access can depend on a subscription and phone-based setup. If you already carry a phone for safety or calls, remote controls may be enough without storing songs on the watch.
Lap Timing And Memory
Lap timing helps you compare intervals, track track workouts and review splits during a long run. Look for a simple lap button and enough saved laps for your session, especially if you run many short repeats.
A watch that stores only recent workouts offers less history than an app-linked model with long-term records. If you review training trends, confirm how many sessions are saved and whether data transfers to a phone or computer.
Display And Controls
A readable display helps you glance at pace or elapsed time without breaking stride. Larger digits and a backlight support early starts and dim routes, while too much information on one screen can be hard to scan.
Physical buttons are often easier to press with sweaty hands than touch controls. Try to establish whether the screen shows the fields you need during a run, and whether changing them requires app setup.
Fit And Comfort
A watch worn for several hours should sit securely without rubbing or bouncing. Check case width, thickness, weight and strap range; slim, light designs suit smaller wrists, while larger displays may be easier to read.
Soft, adjustable straps help reduce pressure during long runs, and removable straps are easier to replace if they wear out. Confirm that the band fits your wrist, including over a sleeve if you train in cold weather.
Water Resistance
Rain and sweat are routine, but water-resistance ratings do not all mean the same thing. Check the stated rating and the maker’s guidance for swimming, rather than assuming a depth figure guarantees safe use in every water activity.
For road training in wet weather, a rating around 5ATM is commonly suited to surface water exposure, subject to the watch’s instructions. Lower ratings may cover splashes only, so choose according to your training and recovery routine.
Durability And Compatibility
A watch faces repeated arm swings, travel and occasional knocks, so lens and case materials deserve attention. Harder glass can resist everyday scratches, while a protective case may add bulk; consider how rough your use will be.
Phone compatibility affects setup, workout syncing and access to training apps. Confirm that the watch supports your phone’s operating system and the services you use, especially if music or custom plans rely on an app.
Price And Value
Lower-priced watches often focus on time, alarms and stopwatch functions, while GPS models add distance and pace records. Higher prices usually bring richer training tools, music storage or connected features, not automatically better marathon results.
Pay more when a feature solves a real need, such as longer GPS runtime for slow long runs or structured plans for self-guided training. Skip extras you will not use, and compare ongoing subscription or accessory costs.
Warranty And Support
Warranty length and coverage affect the cost of an unexpected fault, but terms differ by seller and region. Read what is covered, how long coverage lasts and whether accidental damage or battery wear is excluded.
Also consider software support and replacement straps or charging cables. A watch that still receives app updates and has readily available accessories is easier to keep using through multiple training cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which running watches track distance and pace with GPS?
The EZON T031B01 uses GPS to track running distance and pace, and saves data for up to 50 laps. The Garmin Forerunner 245 Music is another GPS running watch, with training status to help indicate whether you may be undertraining or overdoing it.
Should I choose the EZON T031B01 or the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music?
Choose the EZON if you want GPS distance and pace tracking with data saved for up to 50 laps. Consider the Garmin if training status feedback is more important to your marathon plan.
Which watches have a countdown timer for workouts?
The Beeasy AW02 has a countdown timer that runs for up to 23 hours, while the SOCICO 3328-2 timer runs for up to 23 hours and 59 minutes and gives an audible alert.
What can I use the Timex Ironman Classic 30 to track?
Its 100-hour chronograph and 30-lap memory help you time and track training runs.
What comes in the box with these watches?
The listed product details don’t specify what’s included in each box, so check the seller’s listing for the exact package contents.
Can I wear the Beeasy AW02, GOLDEN HOUR GH-1313, and CIVO 8370 in water?
All three are listed as 50M water resistant, but the GOLDEN HOUR is described for shallow swims and cold showers with care, while the CIVO is suited to rain, sweat, and splashes. Check each watch’s instructions before wearing it in water.
What power source do these running watches use?
The supplied product details don’t state their power sources. Check the product listings or manuals for battery or charging information.
So, What Should You Buy?
For most marathon trainees, the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music is the best pick, with training status to help flag when you may be undertraining or overdoing it. On a budget, consider the Timex Ironman Classic 30, whose 100-hour chronograph and 30-lap memory suit tracking runs.
Choose the EZON T031B01 if you want GPS distance and pace, or the Beeasy AW02 for a stopwatch and countdown timer that run up to 23 hours. For a simple audible countdown, pick the SOCICO; for 50M water resistance, consider the GOLDEN HOUR or CIVO. Choose the model that fits your training needs.