Best HRM?

colochel

I know this is easily google-able but I'd rather ask MFP community first. What is the best heart rate monitor? Are there certain features I should be looking for?

Thanks!

Chelsea

CassieH818

I've heard great things about the Polar F6 model. I am looking for one as well and have searched online, but it can get daunting with so many to choose from!

Canonoch

Polar's seem to be real popular here. I want one myself. Be sure to get one that can calculate calories burned. Go for a strapped HRM for continuos read. One that gives alarm with target zones can be helpful as well.

LynnBirchfield

bump

SassyStef

I have a polar as well, love it!! I totally dont remember the model tho LOL It tracks my HR and time, my avg, max and min rate too. I just plug my avg HR into a little formula and give me my calories I burned. Super easy!!

Good luck on finding one that works best for you, oh and mine was around 95 bucks I believe

Aimee_PD

I just got a Sportline watch and im not too sure about it. i think if i could redo my purchase i'd spend the extra $160 and get a bodybugg type where you get a continuous read..i wear my watch only for workouts and it does seem to be decent but i have to tweak mfp with the reading as this site reads it way higher

bethvandenberg

I have a polar f4. I love it and find it super easy to use. Good luck in your search.

tuduis

I've got the Polar FT80 and LOVE IT. It's great for various types of cardio and actually has a cardio & weight training program option. It's basically like a your own little personal trainer. My favorite part of the HRM is being able to access all of your workouts online. It's quite motivational when you can visually see your progress and definitely helps to keep me going.

Mollydolly10

Polar and Garmin are the most popular - and the top brands.

As for must-haves, it depends what you will be using it for. But in general, it "must" have a chest strap (for more accuracy). It also must be able to input personal data (sex, age, weight). Other than that, it's personal preference. Most people will want calories burned and heart rate - and MOST HRMs have this.

For example:
-Will you run outside a lot/are you concerned about distance? You will want a HRM with GPS/distance (much more expensive). This would also be helpful in training for a long race.
-Will you be at the gym? Then you should make sure your HRM is "coded," meaning that it won't pick up signals and interference from any other HRMs nearby - most Polars have this I know.
-Will you be swimming? Obviously you need a waterproof hehe

I have a Polar FT40 personally, and I really like it, but when I upgrade, I definitely want one with GPS because I have been increasing my running distances and working my way up (slowly haha) to a marathon.

Good luck!

ProTFitness

Polar is a good brand. That is what I use. I would imgaine that any with a chest strap would be good

binary_jester

There's a search on MFP too.

colochel

Thanks for the feedback! Appreciate it and will take it all into consideration! Hope everyone's having a good day!

marniehodges

Hubby got me a Polar FT7 for Christmas and I love it!