Heart Rate Monitor suggestions needed

What other types of functions are you looking for? Some have GPS options (they tend to be larger), some have basic stopwatch functions, and others fit somewhere in between. I have a Timex Ironman 30lap issue, and for $90, it's an okay option. I probably wouldn't buy it again because sometimes the signal gets messed up. Define what funcitons you are looking for and that will narror your search.

Funny you should mention functions because that is something else I am not sure about. I don't think I need a GPS function but maybe I do if someone thinks it is a needed function. I would like to keep track of several workouts as well as being able to set a range for different intensity workouts and it would be great to be able to use it in the pool, other than that, I have no idea what else would be a good thing to have in a HRM vs what is extra (nice to have but not likely to need or miss if I don't have it)

So, I guess I would love to hear the pros and cons of each of the features as well as the pros and cons to various models. I am looking to spend about $150.


Randi

Polar RS200, its a great watch and you can get the foot pod with it on ebay which then the model is rs200sd, for around 160.

Instead of posting a new topic, hope you don't mind if I ask a ? about hrm's What is the cheapest hrm that has the zones.....Z1,Z2, etc ?

Edited by tri42 2007-11-12 12:07 PM

Nope, don't mind, especially since the info might make me change my mind.

(edited: you might want to check with this website http://www.heartratemonitorsusa.com/index.html for more info. I did use this site to compare different models and it seems to be the most detailed as far as that goes.)

Randi

Edited by Fechter99 2007-11-12 12:16 PM

Thanks Randi.

Funny you should post that. I just googled hrm's and called them...she suggested the F6. Maybe someone has some input/opinions on this model.

I don't need cadence, I just want one where I can program my own zones... or maybe get one that will automatically computes zones based on max hr, etc........and it would help if it's inexpensive.

Edited by tri42 2007-11-12 12:40 PM

I did read some good things about the F6 (not sure where- you could try searching for Polar F6 reviews) but I also read that some people felt they outgrew it quickly which is why I was looking at the RS200 because it has more options that I could grow into.

Randi

It's definately worth spending a bit more and get the RS200. You'll soon realize the benefits of speed sensor for running. Combining the pacing with the HR means that you can better gauge the run. Also, using the interval settings that the RS200 offers means that you can get a whole lot more out of your training time.

Polar makes the best HRM on the market (personal opinion based on experience...)

Wutever you do, don't get a Timex HRM. I have one and I guess I get a lot of interference because I can never pick up my heart rate. I know I feel like I'm dying when I train, but according to my HRM, I am dead. hahaha

Polar is very nice. The good thing about Polar as well, it's machine friendly. Meaning, if you're on a treadmill, bike, eliptical, etc... at the gym, it'll most likely pick up your heart rate and show it on the machine. I have the Polar S120 and it has all the functions I need and it didn't break the bank. I think I spent $80 on it.

Has anyone heard of the MIO heart rate monitor? It's more affordable than the Polars and some models don't require a chest strap. It also calculates calories burned. I'm just curious how quickly it picks up a signal and does it keep it. Apparently, Dr. Phil shows it on his show, but I don't watch.

Edited by asoul23 2007-11-13 6:37 AM

Hi there Randi. I wear the F6 and have recently felt the need to upgrade. It was great when I first started using it for spin class and for running, but getting into tris this year, I couldn't use it in the water at all. It would get stuck and I couldn't reset it without opening it up and either drying or changing the battery. In addition, I was going to try to do a lactate threshold test but I don't think it has a lap function so it's hard to figure out your average HR for different levels of exertion. I could be missing something there, though. Bottom line, I will still use it for spin, but if you are getting a new one, the R200? looks like a good one. I was looking at garmin 305 but it is soooo bulky looking. There is a thread that said it's currently on sale for $217 and with a rebate of $50. That sounds pretty good, but again, kind of bulky.

Good luck

Thanks again for all the info. I did look at the Garmin Forerunner and although it seems to offer a lot, and have to agree that it looks way too big for my small wrist. I don't think I would use it for that reason.

I will be getting the RS200 but jut need to come up with the extra money to buy it with the foot pod now or that might have to wait a while even though it would be more expensive to buy separately.

I figure it gives my husband an "easy" present for Mother's Day or my birthday.

Thanks again,
Randi

Just wanted to mention that many people on here have had the concern about the 305 being bulky on the wrist..... people say the unit isn't nearly as bulky as it appears. Personally, I haven't used it but I have some friends who have it and they love it.



Edited by tri42 2007-11-19 10:08 AM

timex data link vs. forerunner 305


I have a data link that is at the warranty repair center right now. I have been very happy with it and have had it for 3 years with no regrets. I was just looking at the forerunner 305 and want to know if anyone has an opinion. Should I stick with the timex or try the forerunner. I need to know something before I get a high dollar estimate for repair from the warranty dept.

Erm.. It really depends on how big your wrist is. I had that concern when I bought the Forerunner 305 online. As soon as I got it home, I knew it wasn't for me. It was simply huge on my wrist. I might as well have been carrying a laptop on my arm. But it looked fine on my boyfriend....  Fortunately, Costco has a wonderful return policy.

Edited by Vaiza 2007-11-19 11:41 PM

I did order the Polar RS200SD from heartratemonitorsusa.com

I did get the one with the foot pod and it was on sale for $209.95 but found a discount code of galaxy which took off another 20% so I got a great deal on it. Total cost was $165 so I got the foot pod for only another $30. I cannot wait for it to get here but don't think I will be able to play with it until Christmas since it is technically a present.

I appreciate all the help and suggestions everyone gave. I did seriously consider the garmin forerunner 305 especially because of the price but it did come back to the fact that it will be too big for me. I am sure others love it and it does not bother them but it is definitely bigger than the rs200. I also don't think I need the GPS since my training is done in the gym on a treadmill the pool, or stationary bike. Hard to get lost when you are not really moving anywhere.

Anyway, thanks again for all the help and I think the thread did help other people here too.


I love BT!
Randi