Your input re: Heart Rate monitors (Read 1591 times)

Your inputs re: Heart Rate monitors would be appreciated. I did a little research, but can't settle with one. It does seem, though, that Polar? is the best? or Garmin? What features are significant for running? Thanks. Lisa

I agree with foxey that the HRM kept me honest about running at an appropriate pace - I was really surprised how much I had to slow down - 2 or 3 min per mile! But what a lifesaver - I went from constantly getting injured and feeling achy (not to mention that ibuprofen became a major part of my diet), to running comfortably, being able to add miles, and tossing the ibu. It's also cool to see how you run faster over time at the same heart rate. Now, if you want to spend the extra bucks, the Garmin is nice if you want to keep track of mileage, particularly nice if you want to go out for X mi and your traveling. But, do you need it - naw. The talk test will do. It's sure a fun toy, though. Arla

Welcome. My question to you is this: Why are you looking at heart rate monitors? Have you researched how to train with one? Do you know how to determine what your HR should be for the type of training you're doing? A new runner doesn't need much, to be honest, if you're sure you want to get one.

Well, it all depends on what you want from your HRM. I myself am somewhat of a data hound. I want it all, speed, distance, elevation, detailed second by second heart rate data, the more the better. If you are after the same, The Garmin forerunner 305 is hands down the best bang for your buck. Now on the other hand, if you want just the basics, then I recommend a Suunto coded T1 or a middle priced polar( less than $100 hrm only, not speed and distance watch). A T1 can be picked up for under $100(make sure it has a coded transmitter) and you can add a foot pod later. The down side of The T1or Polar is the heart rate is displayed in real time while you are running, but you will have no real minute by minute data at the end of the run, only average, High and low HR and with some you may have time spent in heart rate zones. And unless you by accessories you will have no speed or distance data. I have owned: 1. A cheap Reebok ($50 and a total waste of money) 2. A Suunto T4( nice but not such a good value for it's price, and not enough features for my needs. I sent it back for a T6) 3. A very expensive Suunto T6 with foot pod. With the foot pod you will pay close to $500.00 for the T6. Although it is a very fine piece of equipment indeed, it is not a real value for the money 4. A Garmin Forerunner 350. This does it all! Pair it up with Sports Tracks free software and you have a package that can not be beat. This is by far my favorite. For about $200 this has twice the features of my expensive Suunto. I think the forerunner is the best bang for your buck, and will last you several years without needing to upgrade. btw. I think the consensus is that the upcoming forerunner 405 is not realy an upgrade. Kenny

My feedback: get one. get the best you can afford. get as many features as you want and can afford, otherwise you'll just end up buying another one in 6 months time!!!

Hi Lisa. My .02 is don't get a HRM. Learn to run by feel and don't let gadgets get in the way of listening to your body. I've never owned one and I'm a happy runner. Running is really simple if you let it be.

For those of you who have HRMs, how does it feel to run with that chest strap on? Does it make a difference if you're male or female? I've been thinking about upgrading to a HRM, but I'm pretty sure that I will be irritated wearing the chest strap.

For those of you who have HRMs, how does it feel to run with that chest strap on? Does it make a difference if you're male or female? I've been thinking about upgrading to a HRM, but I'm pretty sure that I will be irritated wearing the chest strap.

With the Polar HRM that I use, I barely notice that it's there. The older Polar chest straps were pretty uncomfortable, and I think they still ship them with some of their cheaper model HRMs, but the HRMs designed for runners come with a softer chest strap that you (or at least I) hardly feel once I put it on properly. My wife uses them as well and has never complained about the chest strap, for what that's worth.