Okay HRM users, what do I look for?

SuperStorm

I just had this crazy idea that I may want one of these and whoa are there a lot of choices!! I THINK I'd like an arm band...but I'm not 100% Are they comfortable? I have a hard time with watches so I don't think I want one of those and I'm betting the chest band is like another dang bra LOL
Also,when it comes to the bells and whistles, I don't want much. I just want to know how many calories I'm burning...maybe let me know if/when I get into the target rate zone..
Also I'm cheap..I mean like UBER cheap
SO, any suggestions??

HungryTuna

I'm in the market for one too.. I hear Polar makes wonderful ones, considering they are one of the first brands to make them (if not, the first). Can't wait to see the responses on this. Thanks for asking!

fullofhope

I read a post on this a couple days ago, if I remember correctly most people liked the Polar ft7. A few people said that they too wanted a cheap one and bought a "cheap" one. Turning around later and buying the Polar ft7 because the cheap one they bought didn't really do what they wanted.

Flyntiggr

The ones with the chest strap are the most accurate.

rileysowner

For calorie counting without a chest strap it cannot be done, You need continuous heart rate readings and just the arm part cannot do that.

Here is a good article on what to look for:
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/blog/Azdak/view/the-real-facts-about-hrms-and-calories-what-you-need-to-know-before-purchasing-an-hrm-or-using-one-21472