Running News Daily

Sadly, it’s not as easy as dropping off your old shoes at a local running store.

There comes a time when every GPS watch or activity tracker must be replaced. Maybe you’re currently in the market for a new one because it doesn’t hold a charge long enough or has finally broken down. After the excitement of taking a brand new watch from its packaging, you might turn to your old one and think, now what?

If your old watch is beyond repair, you now have some pesky electronic waste (e-waste) on your hands. According to the World Health Organization, e-waste is the fastest growing solid waste stream in the world, and the United Nations reports only 20 percent of that waste is recycled. 

It can be confusing to understand what exactly you’re supposed to do with e-waste because it’s inconvenient to properly dispose of. So your watch (and other old electronics) languish in forgotten dresser drawers or in dark basements. 

Recycling your old watch won’t be as easy as recycling a plastic bottle, but we’ve rounded up the disposal programs from several major watch companies to get you started. You’ll also find how to wipe your data from the watch before recycling it.

Switching watch brands? You can export your data, but you may find it easier to sync the brand’s app to your favorite activity-tracking app. Exporting your data can take up to 30 days for some brands, the file types and quantities could intimidate those who aren’t tech savvy, and importing the data can take hours.

Brands That Recycle Your Watch for You

Apple, Fitbit, Garmin, and Polar currently offer programs for recycling or that allow users to return their watches to them.

Apple

Apple's Reuse and Recycling Program offers trade in value from $70–$365 for your old Apple Watch. You can initiate the process online or visit an Apple Store to learn if your watch is eligible for credit. If it isn’t, Apple will recycle it for you for free. 

See Apple’s instructions for how to reset and prepare your watch for recycling and trade in. 

Update your Apple Watch to the latest version of watch OS > unpair and erase your Apple Watch (when you unpair, your iPhone will create a backup) > remove the band from your Apple Watch (if included in the box, it will be recycled)

You can export your health and fitness data from Apple's Health app.

Tap your initials at the top right (or by tapping Summary or Browse at the bottom of the screen, then scroll to the top) > tap Export All Health Data

Fitbit

You can recycle your Fitbit through Google’s recycling program, which provides a free shipping label (for those in the U.S., for the rest of the world). Place your Fitbit in a sturdy box, attach the label, and follow the shipping directions or drop the package off at a nearby collection site.

Select your fitbit device for instructions on how to erase your data.

To remove a device from your account, in the Fitbit app: tap Today tab > Devices > the image for the device you want removed > option to remove device (tap trash icon on Android phones) > follow on-screen instruction to remove from your account

From Fitbit.com: settings icon on dashboard > click the image for the device you want removed > scroll to the bottom and click option to remove device > follow on-screen instructions to remove from your account

Review these directions for exporting your Fitbit data. This can take a few days, depending on the size of your data.

From fitbit.com dashboard: click gear icon > Settings > Data Export > under Export Your Account Archive, click Request Data > Fitbit will email asking to confirm request > Fitbit will then email a link to download account data

Garmin

Garmin's Consumer Product Recycling Program allows you to ship your watch back to them for recycling, but you have to cover the cost of shipping.

You can find your watch’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to wipe your data or perform a master reset. 

Power off the device > press and hold the two right keys > while holding the two right keys, press and release the power key to turn the device on > after the first beep, release the upper right key > after the second beep, release the bottom right key

If you want to export your data, Garmin will send a link to download an export file, which takes 48 hours to 30 days.

Log in to Garmin.com > Account > Manage Your Data > Export Your Data > Request Data Export

Polar

Polar offer steps for turning in your watch for repair, but if it’s recycling you’re after, customers are welcome to send any devices to Polar’s New York service center. Like Garmin, you will need to cover the cost of shipping, but you’ll also need to include a note that indicates it is to be recycled and not repaired. Polar works with a company that recycles their products. Mail to:

Polar Electro Inc. ATTN: TSVC CSVC 15 Grumman Road West, Suite 700 Bethpage, NY 11714

To wipe your data, plug your watch into your computer’s USB port > open the FlowSync software > click settings icon and FACTORY RESET (this will take a moment) > unplug the watch

Review these directions for exporting your Polar Flow data.

Log into account.polar.com > click Download Your Data on the left hand menu or scroll to the bottom of the page > click Download on the right to initiate the request > download the data within two weeks of receiving it in an email

Brands That Direct You to do the Recycling

We reached out to Coros and Suunto, who do not currently offer recycling programs. Instead, they instruct you to recycle your device in accordance with local e-waste regulations. But first, here’s how to erase and export your data.

Coros

Coros may periodically offer a trade-in program (like this one in 2021) and just completed a trade-in pilot program in the U.S., but you'll most likely need to recycle it. Either way, here’s how to reset your Coros watch. 

From the watch: System > More Settings > Reset > Reset All

From the COROS app (when watch is connected): Profile page > tap the watch icon > scroll down and tap "Remove"

If you would like to export your training data, Coros says to email support@coros.com. You will receive a .ZIP file including your training data. 

If you are switching to Coros from another brand, follow these instructions for importing your data. This could take a few hours to complete.

Log in to coros.com > click on Activity List > click Import Data > Select File

Suunto

You can reset your Suunto following these instructions.

For several watches (Suunto 5 Peak, 9 Peak, 9 Peak Pro and Suunto Vertical): Go to the watch’s Settings > select General and scroll to Reset settings > select Reset

Chat with Suunto customer support Monday to Friday 4 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST (9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Central European Time) for a link to download your full history of activities in a .ZIP file. 

Electronics Recycling

Your city will likely have resources for e-waste that can be found online by searching “what to do with my e-waste." 

Possible options in your area include taking your watch to a landfill that accepts e-waste, hiring a company that offers pick up services (a good opportunity if you have larger e-waste you need to get rid of), or dropping off at a local university, as some provide community e-waste recycling. 

While it’s inconvenient to recycle e-waste, it does keep harmful materials from being released into the environment and allows valuable ones to be reused. Your efforts will be appreciated by people and planet alike.

If Your Watch Is Still Working

Consider giving it to a friend or family member or donating it to an organization like Still I Run, which promotes the benefits of running for mental health. Their Starting Line Scholarship removes barriers to running by providing new runners the gear they need—your old watch could have a second life, getting someone else started on their running journey. Only send watches that can hold a charge for at least 24 hours and are free from scratches that prohibit someone from being able to view the screen. If your watch meets these requirements, you can mail your watch and its charger to: 

PO Box 10 Hudsonville, MI 49426

You can also donate it to your local Goodwill. Just of course be sure to wipe your data or do a factory reset, using the directions above.

The future of American distance running may have just announced itself.

Luke Surface, an 8th-grade student-athlete from North Raleigh Christian Academy in Raleigh, North Carolina, delivered a performance that stunned the track and field community after taking on some of the nation’s best high school runners at Nike Outdoor Nationals.

Competing at the legendary Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon — one of the most iconic venues in American distance running — Surface lined up in the boys championship 5,000 meters against a field dominated by high school seniors, including several athletes preparing to compete at the NCAA Division I level.

Despite being one of the youngest runners in the race, the 14-year-old held his own against the elite competition, finishing eighth in an incredible 14:25.88. The performance set a new national middle school record, averaging approximately 4:39 per mile for more than three miles.

That kind of time is fast enough to win many high school state championships across the United States and meets qualifying standards for several major NCAA Division I conference competitions — a remarkable achievement for a runner who has not yet entered high school.

But Surface’s historic 5,000m performance was only the latest chapter in a season filled with record-breaking moments.

Earlier in May, he clocked 8:52.03 for 3,200 meters at the NCISAA Division I State Championships in North Carolina, breaking another national middle school record. His converted two-mile time of 8:55.12 surpassed the previous world-best mark for a 14-year-old age group, previously held by Vincent Recupero.

During the previous cross-country season, Surface also made headlines when he ran 15:12 at the adidas XC Challenge, finishing second while competing against runners who were several years older.

Across cross country, two miles, and the 5,000 meters, Surface has continued to prove that his talent is far beyond his age group. While he still has four years of high school competition ahead before reaching the college level, his performances have already placed him among the most exciting young distance runners to watch.

The American high school 5,000-meter record currently stands at 13:32, set by Lex Young in 2023 — a mark Surface is not yet close to challenging. However, his remarkable progression at such a young age has caught the attention of the running world, with many eager to follow how far his extraordinary journey can go.

For now, Luke Surface remains an eighth grader rewriting the record books — and his story is only beginning.

DOHA, Qatar – Ethiopian distance running is once again making a powerful statement on the global stage. Following the Doha Diamond League meeting, Ethiopia has achieved a remarkable clean sweep of the women's 3000m/5000m standings, occupying all eight leading positions in one of the most competitive disciplines in world athletics.

Leading the charge is Likina Amebaw, who sits comfortably at the top of the rankings with 22 points. Close behind is fellow Ethiopian star Freweyni Hailu on 14 points, while Medina Eisa occupies third place with 12 points. The dominance continues through the rest of the leaderboard, with Senayet Getachew, Hawi Abera, Aleshign Baweke, Marta Alemayo, and Bernesh Dessie completing an extraordinary Ethiopian monopoly of the standings.

The achievement highlights Ethiopia's exceptional depth in women's distance running, where a new generation of athletes continues to emerge and challenge for global honours. Rather than relying on a single standout performer, Ethiopia has assembled a formidable squad capable of controlling races and collecting points across multiple Diamond League meetings.

While the current standings paint a picture of complete Ethiopian supremacy, the battle for the Diamond League title is far from over. Several meetings remain on the road to the season finale, leaving plenty of opportunities for rivals to close the gap and for positions within the Ethiopian contingent to shift dramatically.

For now, however, the spotlight belongs firmly to Ethiopia. The East African powerhouse has transformed the women's 3000m/5000m standings into an all-Ethiopian affair, sending a clear message to the rest of the world that the race for Diamond League glory will likely run through Addis Ababa.

The question now is whether Likina Amebaw can maintain her advantage and finish the season as the overall leader, whether Freweyni Hailu or Medina Eisa can mount a successful challenge, or whether another athlete will produce a late-season surge to rewrite the script.

One thing is certain: the road to the Diamond League Final promises a fascinating battle among some of the finest distance runners on the planet.

Kenyan athletics superstar and world champion Beatrice Chebet has officially entered a beautiful new chapter in her life after welcoming a baby boy.

The 26-year-old track sensation, born on 5 March 2000, has built a remarkable legacy as one of the greatest distance runners of her generation. Chebet is a world record holder in the 5000m, 10,000m and road 5km, with a career decorated by historic victories on the biggest stages.

She made history at the 2024 Summer Olympics by winning gold medals in both the 5000m and 10,000m, before achieving the same remarkable double at the 2025 World Athletics Championships. Her medal collection also includes a 5000m silver medal at the 2022 World Athletics Championships and bronze at the 2023 World Athletics Championships.

Beyond the track, Chebet has also dominated cross country, becoming a three-time world champion after winning the junior title in 2019 and senior titles in 2023 and 2024. She has also claimed major 5000m victories at the 2018 World U20 Championships, 2022 Commonwealth Games and the 2022 African Championships in Athletics.

Now, the Kenyan star is celebrating a different kind of milestone — becoming a mother.

Sharing the joyful news, Chebet introduced her newborn son with a heartfelt message filled with love and excitement:

“Tiny hands, tiny feet, and a love so big! A beautiful new chapter begins. Welcome to our world our sweet little baby boy!”

The arrival of her son marks a special moment away from competition, as the world champion embraces motherhood while carrying the pride of a nation that has watched her achieve greatness.

Messages of congratulations have poured in from fans and the athletics community, celebrating the new chapter for one of Kenya’s most successful athletes.

As Beatrice Chebet adds motherhood to her list of remarkable achievements, the champion now begins a new journey filled with love, joy, and unforgettable moments with her baby boy. 

Jake Wightman delivered a masterclass in championship racing as he surged to the men's 800m title at the UK Athletics Championships, holding off a determined challenge from Ben Pattison in a thrilling finish.

In a race defined by patience, positioning, and precise execution, Wightman waited for the perfect moment to strike before unleashing his finishing kick down the home straight. The former world champion crossed the line in 1:45.40, just doing enough to edge Pattison and secure the national crown.

The contest lived up to expectations, bringing together two of Britain's finest middle-distance talents in a tactical battle where every move carried significance. With the pace controlled through the early stages, the field remained tightly packed, setting the stage for a dramatic final lap.

As the bell rang, the intensity immediately rose. Pattison looked poised to seize control and pushed hard in the closing metres, but Wightman's experience and race awareness proved decisive. Drawing on years of competing at the highest level, he maintained his composure under pressure and found the extra gear required to stay ahead when it mattered most.

The victory marks another significant chapter in Wightman's decorated career and serves as a timely statement of intent as the international season gathers momentum. More importantly, it showcased the qualities that have made him one of Britain's most respected middle-distance athletes — tactical intelligence, resilience, and an ability to deliver in the biggest moments.

For Pattison, the narrow defeat will provide encouragement rather than disappointment. His performance confirmed his growing status among Britain's elite 800m runners and highlighted the depth of talent currently thriving in the event.

But on this occasion, the spotlight belonged to Wightman. In a race where the margins were razor-thin, he executed his plan to perfection and walked away with the UK Athletics Championship title.

Remember the name Gout Gout.

At just 18 years old, the Australian sprint prodigy is already commanding global attention and fueling conversations about the future of track and field. In a sport constantly searching for its next superstar, Gout is rapidly emerging as one of the brightest talents the world has seen in years.

His latest statement came at the prestigious Ostrava Golden Spike meeting, where he stepped onto the track alongside some of sprinting's biggest names, including reigning world champion Noah Lyles. Far from being overwhelmed by the occasion, the teenager delivered a composed and confident performance, finishing third in the 150m in 14.96 seconds against two of the fastest athletes on the planet.

Yet impressive as that performance was, it is not the result that has the athletics community buzzing most.

Earlier this year, Gout stunned the sprinting world by clocking an astonishing 19.67 seconds for 200m, setting a new world Under-20 record. The performance instantly elevated him from promising prospect to genuine phenomenon.

What makes the achievement even more remarkable is the historical context. At the same age, Gout was faster than sprint legend Usain Bolt. Comparisons to the Jamaican icon are inevitable, not because records demand them, but because the raw numbers are impossible to ignore.

Of course, Gout's journey is only beginning. Like any young athlete, he still has room to grow, refine his craft, and gain valuable experience at the highest level. The road from teenage sensation to global champion is rarely straightforward.

But there is no denying the extraordinary potential that lies within him.

His speed, composure, and ability to perform under pressure have already marked him out as one of athletics' most exciting young stars. More importantly, he possesses the kind of talent that inspires belief that a new era of sprinting may be on the horizon.

The sport has always thrived on rivalries that capture the imagination of fans across the globe. With established champions such as Noah Lyles currently leading the way, the emergence of Gout Gout adds an intriguing new chapter to sprinting's future.

The next great rivalry may already be taking shape.

And one of its leading figures is still only a teenager.

For now, the message is simple: remember the name Gout Gout. The future is arriving faster than anyone expected.