GPS Training Podcast

Jon Monks, GPS Training and reviews
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Keeping you up to date with everything going on in the world of outdoor GPS navigation

  1. 3D AGO

    Big news from Suunto

    Big news from Suunto, updated UK Grid reference finder, the end of the Garmin GPSMAP67 and Andy’s top tips. 1. 90 Years of Suunto Suunto was founded in 1936, celebrating 90 years in 2026 Anniversary marked with the Suunto Vertical Titanium Limited Edition Only 1,936 units worldwide Just 22 coming to the UK GPS Training is expecting at least 6 units What makes it special Titanium build Based on Suunto’s flagship outdoor watch A nod to Suunto’s expedition and navigation heritage, not fashion or hype This is a watch for people who actually go outside and use their kit This is one of the most meaningful limited editions Suunto have ever released. Proper heritage, proper scarcity, and a watch that’s actually designed to be used. More information about Suunto’s anniversary can be found here. 2. GPS Training Website Update: UK Grid Reference Finder Improvements What’s changed Nearest postcode now shown, not just exact matches Distance to nearest postcode displayed Shareable link that opens the map at the exact selected location Why it’s useful Convert between: Grid references Postcodes Lat/long Eastings and northings What3Words Ideal for: Finding car park grid refs Sharing locations with friends Dropping accurate points into a GPS You can look at the UK Grid Reference Finder online here. 3. The Last GPSMAP 67 Sold: A Handheld GPS Milestone GPS Training has now sold the last GPSMAP 67 Marks the end of a hugely important handheld range Brief history GPSMAP 66s October 2018 First appearance of this case design GPSMAP 66i InReach satellite communication added GPSMAP 66sr Multi-band GNSS for improved accuracy GPSMAP 67 / 67i Refinement rather than reinvention Why this range mattered Rock-solid reliability Physical buttons Big improvement in screen and battery over older models Trusted by walkers, mountaineers, and professionals Garmin GPSMAP67i – more here 4. Andy’s Top Tips Suunto Web Based Route planner: Did you know Suunto have a web-based Route Planner routeplanner.suunto.com Rather than the App you can plan on your computer, bigger screen, use a mouse for ease Routes you plan can be synced to the mobile app with one click of the mouse so that when you open the mobile app they are there to quickly send to your watch Of you plan routes on other software’s on your computer i.e. OS, GPS Training route planner etc or downloaded from websites, rather than email them to yourself to then open and import to app simply import them into web planner and select the upload sync You can view routes you have planned on the app within the Web planner Online resource – Multi Activity Watches – Suunto Race or Vertical – Module 3 unit 5 Using the Suunto Web browser Route planner Garmin FENIX 8 Pro tip using LTE tracking only £7.99 a month unlimited LTE tracking Using Live Track on Garmin devices in connect app will pull down phone battery, With the new Fenix 8 pro from Garmin you can use LTE tracking on the watch standalone, will use more watch battery but not your phone Make sure in the Connect App More menu – Safety & Tracking – Live Track – Auto start on, you can have show course & spectator messaging Then on the connectivity settings on your watch turn of phone connection and then also in Connectivity settings make sure Garmin Share enabled and on LTE & Satellite Status does include an option with LTE & LTE Mode Auto Tested using Fenix 8 Pro 51mm with route navigation and LTE Tracking, Satellites Auto, screen on gesture and would have achieved approx. 28 hrs 16-mile hike only a couple of very small parts, loss of LTE , LTE 4g signal will depend on area

    34 min

  2. JAN 1

    How can I get to grips with my GPS unit in 2026?

    Getting to Grips with Your GPS in 2026 In this New Year’s Day episode, we look at one simple question many walkers and runners ask at the start of the year: “How do I actually get confident using my GPS?” Rather than talking tech for tech’s sake, this episode walks through the practical training options available through GPS Training, helping you choose the right level of support for how you use your GPS. What’s covered in this episode 1. The GPS Training Online Resource – more here 24/7 access to step-by-step training videos Covers current GPS units and older models Ideal if you like learning at your own pace A single GPS unit can have 50+ dedicated videos 2. One-to-One GPS Training (Zoom or In-Person) –  more here Tailored entirely to how you walk, run or navigate Perfect if you want focused help on specific issues Ideal for people short on time or lacking confidence 3. Two-Day GPS Training Courses (Nationwide) – more here Hands-on, outdoor, practical GPS training Learn route planning, following routes, trackback, and emergency scenarios Designed to build real confidence, not just button-pressing knowledge 4. Follow-On & Refresher Training, GPS in the hills – more here Options for those who already own a GPS but want to go further Particularly useful if you’ve never fully used your device’s features 5. Choosing the Right Training for You Advice on matching training options to your experience level Why there’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to GPS learning Key takeaway Getting the most from your GPS in 2026 isn’t about buying new kit — it’s about understanding the kit you already have. With the right training, a GPS becomes a genuine confidence tool rather than a frustration. If you’ve ever thought “I know my GPS does more than I use it for”, this episode is a great place to start.

    39 min

  3. 12/01/2025

    The final episode of the year – winter GPS tips, end of an era for the 67, multi-day adventures, Christmas wish-lists, and the AI Bot in action.

    The final episode of the year – winter GPS tips, end of an era for the 67, multi-day adventures, Christmas wish-lists, and the AI Bot in action. Episode Overview In this month’s episode, Jon and Andy wrap up 2025 with a bumper winter edition of the GPS Training Podcast. They discuss the sudden end of the Garmin GPSMAP 67, compare the best units for winter use, dive into watches vs handhelds for multi-day adventures, and explore what people are asking the GPS Training AI Support Bot. They finish with their Christmas gear wish-lists and Andy’s shortcut tips. 1. Is This the End of the Garmin GPSMAP 67? Garmin have quietly stopped supplying new GPSMAP 67 stock — despite saying in October that there were “no plans to discontinue” it when the new GPSMAP H1 series launched. Key points No more GPSMAP 67 units on order from Garmin — stock is now extremely limited. The 67 has been hugely popular thanks to: A massive jump in battery life (way beyond 100 hours). Its robust build and reliability. Button-only control, ideal for poor weather. Second-hand 67 and 67i units are selling fast — proving the demand is still strong. What about the 67i? The 67i is still incoming for now — but Jon expects it may also disappear in the near future. Many people prefer the 67i over the H1i+ because: It’s £350 cheaper. Some users don’t want picture messaging or voice memos. It still offers excellent battery life and proven inReach SOS. You don’t need to activate an inReach subscription to use the 67i as a normal GPS. Verdict: If you’ve been thinking about a 67 or 67i, now is the moment — stock won’t last long. 2. Best GPS Units for Winter Walking Cold weather affects batteries, touchscreens, and usability. Jon and Andy break it down into budget, mid-range, and large-screen options. 💷 Budget: Garmin eTrex 32x Around ~£200. Uses AA batteries (ideal for cold temps if kept warm in a pocket). Joystick + button control = excellent with gloves. Basic but extremely reliable. Brilliant as: A backup navigation tool. A device for quick grid references. A simple, safe winter companion. 💷 Mid-Range: TwoNav Aventura 2 Plus Andy calls this “an undersold gem”. Good size screen with joystick + button control. 36-hour battery life. Battery is removable (spare available), plus optional AA battery pack. With OS 1:25k maps, around £579. 💷 Large Screen / Premium Units Includes Garmin H1, H1i+, GPSMAP 67i, and Montana 700 / 710 / 760 series. Garmin H1 / H1i+ Buttons and touchscreen. Touchscreen performs extremely well in the rain. Bigger, clearer input buttons than a smartphone. Around 60–70 hours battery life. Garmin GPSMAP 67i Over 100 hours battery. Buttons only. Still one of Andy’s all-time favourite units. Garmin Montana 700 series Pure touchscreen, but excellent glove performance. Rain & glove modes in Settings > Accessibility. Removable big battery, plus AA pack for non-“i” versions. Winter rule: If you wear gloves a lot, buttons (or a mixed interface like the H1) are your friend. 3. Multi-Day Adventures – Watch, GPS Unit, or Both? Andy gives an honest look at how he uses watches and GPS units across events like the Montane Spine, Winter Lakes events, and long DIY challenges. How watches have changed In 2015, the Fenix 3 gave ~20 hours battery life. In 2025: Fenix 8 Solar: up to 149 hours GPS. Fenix 8 AMOLED: ~84 hours GPS. Suunto Race 2: ~55 hours (all systems). Suunto Vertical 2 AMOLED: ~65 hours. These battery gains mean a watch can now last most ultra events without daily charging. Why Andy still uses a watch Quick glances without removing gloves or stopping. Instant stats (distance left, current pace, ascent). Vibrations every mile help with pacing and morale. Perfect when using poles. Why he still carries a handheld Bigger OS map for tricky nav decisions. inReach SOS & satellite communication. Night navigation in poor visibility. If he had to choose only one… If forced: 67i, purely because of inReach safety. But realistically? → Watch for recording + stats, GPS for tricky nav is the perfect pairing. Best budget pairing A brilliant low-cost combination: Suunto Race 2 (~£300+). TwoNav Roc handheld for OS maps and emergency navigation. Cheaper than a single high-end Garmin unit. Event rule reminder Some events (e.g., the Montane Spine) require a handheld GPS at kit check. Jon is doing kit checks this winter — so brush up! 4. Ask the Bot – December Questions The GPS Training AI Support Bot now runs on 6,776 indexed pages of training videos, guides, and troubleshooting steps. A few questions from the last 24 hours: • “Where are the setup sheets for the Garmin GPSMAP 67?” Bot linked directly to the correct downloadable setup sheets. • “How often should I calibrate my altimeter?” Bot recommended calibrating: At the start of a walk (when height is known). After big weather changes. Or leave auto-calibration on for general use. • “Can I reverse a route on the Garmin H1?” Bot correctly answered: → No. The H1 uses courses, which can’t yet be reversed. Workaround: reverse the route in BaseCamp or the GPS Training Route Planner before sending it. • “My BaseCamp route has 284 points – will it transfer to my 67i?” Bot explained the unit limit (~250 points). Anything beyond the limit may cause the end of the route to truncate. • “How do I get a GPX file onto BaseCamp and then into my 67i using a Mac?” Bot provided a full, step-by-step guide and linked directly to Andy’s video. 5. Andy’s Top Tips – Shortcut Buttons A theme this month: shortcuts and action buttons on watches and GPS units. Suunto (Race 2, Vertical) Settings > Customise Top button = Torch Bottom button = Messages Middle button = Instant Map (“pin widget”) Garmin Fenix / Epix / Fenix 8 Hold middle left > Watch Settings > System > Hotkeys Andy uses: Torch Music Timers Quick “Save Location” for an instant grid reference Garmin H1 / H1i+ Main Menu > Settings > Action Button New update added loads more options: Single tap / double tap / hold Torch Mark waypoint Lock device Check-in message Launch camera (H1i+) 6. Christmas Tech Wish-List Andy’s Picks GPS Unit: Garmin 67i Watch: Suunto Race 2 Bonus: Suunto Wing 2 bone-conduction headphones Jon’s Picks GPS Unit: Garmin H1 / H1i+ Watch: Suunto Vertical 2 AMOLED (“Lots of watch for £529, incredible brightness.”) 7. Festive Wrap-Up A big thank you from Jon, Andy and all the GPS Training team. 2025 has been a huge year of courses, new products, long drives, and helping thousands of walkers get confident with their kit. A genuine thank-you to everyone who bought from us, booked courses, subscribed to the online resource, and kept the community thriving. Have a brilliant Christmas and New Year — stay safe on the hills, pack well in winter, and enjoy a cold crisp walk when you can.

    53 min

  4. 11/01/2025

    Fenix 8 Pro, Garmin eTrex Touch and top tips

    Welcome to the GPS Training Podcast, where we explore the latest outdoor navigation kit, training opportunities, and tools to make your time on the hills easier and safer. In this month’s episode, Jon and Andy dive into a packed line-up – 1. Field-Tested Review – Garmin eTrex Touch After several weeks of walking with the Garmin eTrex Touch, including filming a new Walk & Talk video, Jon and Andy share their real-world impressions. They cover: How well the touchscreen performs in wet and cold conditions Battery life and handling in the field The lack of a micro-SD card slot (and how that affects TalkyToaster map compatibility) Who it’s best suited for — whether you’re a day walker, family user, or new to GPS navigation Andy has also added new walkthroughs, setup guides and practical tips to the Garmin eTrex Touch online training resource, available via the GPS Training website. They finish by asking — is the eTrex Touch still one of the best entry-level GPS units on the market? 👉 Explore the Garmin eTrex Touch at GPS Training 👉 Watch the Walk & Talk video on the Garmin eTrex Touch 2. GPS Training Courses for 2026 The 2026 GPS Training course calendar is now live, with more locations than ever before. The two-day Garmin GPS courses are running in: South Downs Northamptonshire Gloucestershire Peak District Lake District Northumberland These courses take you from “I’ve got a GPS” to “I actually know how to use it properly”. Early booking is recommended — places are already filling up! New for 2026, GPS Training is launching TwoNav One-Day Courses in the South Downs and Northumberland, helping new TwoNav users get up and running with setup, mapping, and our free OS route planner. And for those who’ve already completed the two-day Garmin course, there’s GPS in the Hills, an advanced one-day course focused on real-world route planning, on-hill navigation, and problem-solving. 👉 View all Garmin GPS Training Courses for 2026 👉 View all TwoNav GPS Training Courses for 2026 3. Free GPX File Cleaner If you plan your routes in apps like OS Maps or OS Explore, then export a GPX for use on a GPS device, you’ll know how messy those files can get — with thousands of points, gaps, or strange spikes. To fix that, GPS Training has launched a Free GPX File Cleaner — a quick, easy-to-use online tool that: Removes excess data points Fixes formatting errors Ensures compatibility with Garmin, TwoNav, and Suunto devices Simply upload your GPX, let it process, and download a cleaner version ready for your next adventure. 👉 Try the Free GPX File Cleaner 4. Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Review Andy shares his first-hand impressions of the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro, the latest evolution of Garmin’s flagship adventure watch. Discussion includes: Key upgrades from the Fenix 8 The introduction of LTE-M and inReach messaging directly from the watch Improved battery life and brighter AMOLED screen If you’re thinking about upgrading your outdoor watch, this one’s worth listening to. 👉 Shop the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro 5. Ask the Bot! The GPS Training AI Support Bot has had a busy month — helping users get to grips with Garmin, TwoNav, and Suunto devices. In this episode, Jon and Andy highlight some of the most common questions, including: How do I delete a track from my Garmin Montana 700? Can I navigate to a saved location on my Fenix 7X while still recording an activity? How do I open topo maps from an SD card in Garmin BaseCamp? What software should I use with a TwoNav device on my computer? Why does my Suunto watch show only a basic clock until I press a button? As ever, expect a few light-hearted exchanges with the bot voice along the way! 👉 Try the GPS Training AI Bot 6. Andy’s Top Tips We wrap up with Andy’s tried-and-tested navigation tips: Garmin Fenix 8: Turning off auto-lap for activities other than ultra mode, setting useful watch-face shortcuts, and holding ‘Back’ for quick access. TwoNav: Understanding the new “cross” icon on map screens and managing overlapping map layers (like British Isles vs GB Topo). These are small tweaks that make a big difference when using your GPS devices in the field. Outro That’s it for this month’s episode! We’ve covered: The Garmin eTrex Touch field test The 2026 GPS Training Course Calendar The Free GPX File Cleaner A hands-on Garmin Fenix 8 Pro review This month’s Ask the Bot And of course, Andy’s Top Tips As always, you can find more info, videos, and free tools at GPSTraining.co.uk. Stay safe on the trails, and we’ll see you next month!

    58 min

  5. 10/01/2025

    Reviews - Garmin GPSMAP H1 series, Suunto Vertical 2 and Garmin Touch

    In this month’s GPS Training Podcast, Jon and Andy are back together — and there’s plenty to talk about! What’s inside this episode: First thoughts on the Garmin GPSMAP H1 / H1i Plus We take Garmin’s brand-new handheld out into the field and share our first impressions: the rugged build, touchscreen performance, new features like the flashlight and siren, and whether it’s worth upgrading if you already own a GPSMAP 67i. Andy’s Windermere Lap adventure Andy laced up for a full circuit of England’s largest lake. We cover the distance, terrain, highlights, and the gear he used along the way — plus tips if you’re tempted to take on the challenge yourself. New launch: Suunto Vertical 2 Released yesterday, the Vertical 2 brings a stunning AMOLED screen, offline mapping, colour elevation plots, and OS grid references right on your wrist. Andy’s been testing it — hear his verdict on usability, battery life, and whether it’s worth the upgrade. New launch: Garmin eTrex Touch Another fresh release, this update to the eTrex series brings a modern touchscreen interface, improved satellite accuracy, geocaching features, and easier GPX sharing. We explain where it sits in Garmin’s lineup and who it’s best suited for. Andy’s Top Tips How to lock buttons on your Suunto Race or Vertical so you don’t stop recording by mistake. Managing voice alerts and Bluetooth audio on the new Garmin GPSMAP H1. Links mentioned in the episode: Garmin GPSMAP H1 Garmin GPSMAP H1i plus Suunto Vertical 2 and other Suunto watches Garmin eTrex Touch

    59 min

  6. 09/15/2025

    Explorer Ian Hughes & The Road to the South Pole

    Welcome back to the GPS Training Podcast! This month Jon sits down with adventurer Ian Hughes, whose journey has taken him from leaving school with no qualifications to serving in the Royal Green Jackets, working as a deep-sea saturation diver, and now aiming for one of the biggest challenges on earth — the Explorers Grand Slam. Tomorrow, Ian begins his GPS Training course ahead of attempting a solo, unsupported ski to the South Pole. In this episode, we hear his story so far, how he’s preparing, and what keeps him motivated to take on such extreme adventures. 🔑 What’s in this episode: Ian’s early years – from school to the army and beyond Life underwater – his time as a commercial diver and running diving companies Becoming an explorer – why he’s drawn to big challenges The Explorers Grand Slam – what it is, and why he’s chasing it South Pole prep – training, kit, and mindset for skiing solo and unsupported Using GPS in polar expeditions – how tech plays a vital safety role Motivation & resilience – lessons from pushing the limits 🌍 Links & Resources Support Ian’s Explorers Grand Slam attempt: GiveWheel page Ian’s Instagram page

    54 min

  7. 09/01/2025

    Launch of the Suunto Race 2

    In this month’s episode, Jon flies solo while Andy enjoys a well-earned holiday. We’ve packed a lot in — from brand-new GPS tools to the latest watch launches. Here’s what you can expect: 📰 News Round-Up Satellite Messenger Plan Calculator – Compare real-world costs of Garmin, ZOLEO, and Spot devices. Garmin inReach Cost Calculator – Work out the ongoing costs of owning an “i” series GPS unit. COROS NOMAD GPS Watch – Adventure-first design with journaling features, but will GPS Training stock it? Garmin Running Metrics – New Running Tolerance and Running Economy tools to help prevent injuries. 🎙️ Interview with Simon from Suunto We sit down with Simon to talk about the brand-new Suunto Race 2 and Suunto Wing 2 Headphones. Design updates: slimmer profile, titanium vs steel, and sapphire glass New sensors: heart rate, blood oxygen, VO₂ max Navigation: 32GB memory, offline maps, safety features Everyday use: AMOLED display, touchscreen + scroll wheel Battery life: 50 hours in all-satellite mode Plus: what sets the Race 2 apart from the competition Find the Suunto Race 2, Race S, and Vertical at GPSTraining.co.uk. 🔦 Spotlight: UK Grid Reference Finder A brand-new free tool from GPS Training! Convert postcodes, grid references, eastings/northings, lat/long, and even What3Words Download GPX files to load straight into your GPS Perfect for finding car parks or planning routes. Try it at: GPSTraining.co.uk > More > Grid Reference Finder 🤖 Ask the Bot! We put your best AI support bot questions under the spotlight, including: What’s the difference between a check-in message and a normal message on Garmin inReach? How to change data boxes on a TwoNav Cross Plus Sending tracks to a TwoNav Terra from your phone Changing your GPS Training online resource password Locking the screen on a TwoNav Terra Switching Garmin GPSMAP66i to hiking mode Exporting GPX files from Garmin Connect to Strava Want to try the Support Bot yourself? Log in to our online resource: GPSTraining.co.uk > Online Resource > Support Bot. 🎧 Outro That’s a wrap for Episode 115! New Garmin features, COROS NOMAD launch, and a deep dive with Suunto Check out the new UK Grid Reference Finder and Satellite Messenger calculators on our website Andy will be back next month — plus we’ll hopefully spill the beans on Garmin’s mystery webinar Thanks for tuning in, and safe walking until next time!

    40 min

  8. 07/31/2025

    GPS Training Podcast #114 – GPX Files, Suunto Insights & Long-Distance GPS Choices

    GPS Training Podcast #114 – GPX Files, Suunto Insights & Long-Distance GPS Choices Welcome to another packed episode of the GPS Training Podcast! This month, Jon is joined by Andy from GPS Training to cover: 🔁 1. Reflections on the Suunto Interview (Podcast #113) Andy shares his key takeaways from the mid-month chat with Dan Southam, Suunto’s UK Marketing Manager. 👉 Watch the full video interview with Dan Southam here » What stood out? Suunto’s long heritage in navigation, starting with their liquid-filled compasses in the 1930s Why Suunto watches are sports watches – not smartwatches Focus on simple, accurate, fast-to-orient navigation Designed for people who want brilliant mapping and fitness features without the distraction of unnecessary “smart” tech Explore the Suunto range we stock here: 👉 Suunto Watches at GPS Training » 🧭 2. GPX Files – What Are They and Why Should You Care? We break down: What a GPX file is (it’s a route, track, or collection of waypoints in one handy file) Why GPX files help with day walks and long-distance trails How to use them with your GPS watch or handheld The difference between a route, track, and course on Garmin and other devices 🛠️ Watch tutorials and import GPX files easily in the GPS Training Online Resource » 🔗 Recommended GPX download sites: See our updated list: 👉 Top Sites for Free GPX Walks & Routes » 🥾 3. Best GPS Units for Long-Distance Trails Andy shares what to look for: Long battery life Larger screen for clear mapping Built-in OS Maps (or worldwide mapping if you’re heading overseas) Satellite communication (e.g. Garmin inReach) 💥 Top Picks: Garmin GPSMAP 67i – Long battery life + built-in satellite communication Garmin Montana 700/700i/750i – Large screen and touchscreen mapping TwoNav Adventurer/Terra – Great for planning on-the-go with live tracking 👉 Compare GPS Units for Long-Distance Walking » 📦 All GPS units from GPS Training come with: Free setup Full UK OS maps 1 year’s access to our Online Resource Support from real humans who walk the walk 🧠 4. Andy’s Top Tip – Why You Should Use Garmin BaseCamp (Even if You Hate It) Even if you plan your walks in another app, BaseCamp is your friend when: Checking if a GPX file is a route or a track Making sure it’s got the right number of points Cutting down long-distance trails into day-by-day walks Renaming files and adding proximity alarms 🎥 Learn how in the Online Resource – Module 3 » (You’ll find full BaseCamp guides for both Mac and PC.) 🤖 5. Questions to the GPS Training AI Bot – What You’ve Been Asking This Month Some of your top questions this month: How do I adjust the screen brightness on a Garmin GPSMAP 67? How do I remove waypoints from a planned route in OS software? How do I create escape routes on my Garmin GPS? Try it out: 👉 Ask the GPS Training AI Bot (Online Resource) » 🧠 The bot is trained on our own GPS videos, manuals, course notes, and real customer FAQs – so you’re getting our expertise, 24/7. If you enjoyed this episode, please: 👍 Leave us a review on your podcast platform 📣 Share it with a walking or running friend 🎧 Catch up on past episodes at here. Until next time, happy navigating from all of us at GPS Training – learn from the experts.

    47 min
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About

Keeping you up to date with everything going on in the world of outdoor GPS navigation

Information

  • Creator
    Jon Monks, GPS Training and reviews
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    GPS Training Podcast