Heart Rate Monitors

[kristinamy]

I do not have, but am interested in buying a heart rate monitor. Those of you who have one, what do you have and what do you like and dislike about it? Where did you get it and what did it cost (if i may ask)? At this point, i know nothing about these and would like to make an informed choice. Any info will be helpful!

Thanks - kristinamy

[stacy4ft9]

Hi there! I got my hr monitor from www.heartratemonitorsusa.com (http://www.heartratemonitorsusa.com/) about 3 years ago. I got the Polar M51 (they don't make this one anymore) and it cost me about $100.00.

What I like about it is not only will it track calories for any given workout session, but also keeps another file of the running total calories so you can track your calorie burn for a week or month, or however long.

You can program it for your hr zones or use the ownzone feature that automatically calculates it for you. I've programmed mine in and leave it at that. I'd say my only dislike is that I wish the watch were just a bit smaller.

Polar as a few new models out -- I think they are the F4, F6 and F11. I've been really happy w/ heartratemonitorsusa.com They include 2-day fedex shipping for your watch. I just had to order a new transmitter the other day (the thing that goes around your chest) and it was here in 2 days via regular mail.

You will LOVE having a hr monitor -- it is a great tool!

[snora]

I have the Polar M61 that has basically the same features as the model Stacy described. I bought it a year ago - don't know if it is still on the market. IMHO, Polar makes the best HRM. Look over their line and pick the one that fits your needs. It is definitely $ well spent and will help you increase your fitness level.

[LoriInND]

I have one of the less expensive, simpler Polar models (sorry, don't have it right here for the model #). You can set your range, and it measures time elapsed, time in zone, and average heart rate. I love working out with my HR monitor, and it has always worked great, (got it in April '04) but my advice would be to spend just a little more money for one that does calories too if you think that might interest you at all. :D

[kristinamy]

Thank you very much ladies! I appreciate the info -- Polar happened to be the brand I happened to be looking at last night when I decided that i didn't know enough, and wrote my post.

I can feel a purchase in my near future!

Thanks again -- kristin