Heart Rate Monitor

[chvl67]

For more efficient workouts, I wanted to get my girlfriend a heart rate monitor watch. This would let her know that she is in her target zone for workouts, rather than relying on holding onto the monitor on the elliptical.
Does anyone here use them, and if so, what should I look for?
I found some nice ones made by Polar.

 

[smb_69]

I have used them for my cardio a while back - Polar worked fine for me.

 

[LATINLOVER]

polar A5 gives you an idea of how many calories you burn per workout 99.00 at power systems

 

[jenscats5]

I use a Polar, got it for $99 and really like it. Also, just changed the battery myself & it works just fine (little tip).

I really like to make sure where in my MHR I'm working when I do my CV and the HR monitor keeps me accountable.

 

[jenny27]

i use one every time i do cardio...keeps me at a decent pace and is really helpful.

 

[FitFossil]

The battery on mine died so I don't use it anymore, but I think they're great for beginners. Sort of fun too - because you can see how just a small change in pace affects heart rate.

The "heart rate formula" (220-age etc) doesn't apply equally to everyone, so don't feel compelled to lock yourself in a predetermined zone, if you don't feel it's doing it for you. Starting out though, it's probably good to follow it until you develop a feel for your own heartrate.

 

[jenscats5]

Hey FitFossil -- they sell the battery at the drugstore -- just take it out & match the #'s....that is if you still want to use the thing....

 

[Tri Girl]

HRM are integral for endurance training! You can find good ones for cheap on ebay ($40 or so). Polar is good, Timex Ironman is very good.

 

[anthrax]

The "heart rate formula" (220-age etc) doesn't apply equally to everyone, so don't feel compelled to lock yourself in a predetermined zone, if you don't feel it's doing it for you.

the "real" formula is more complicated and depends on many more factors (sex behing one of them)


BTW Polar and Timex are good brands

Stick to reputable brands if you want your HRM to be accurate