HRM and swimming

DianaPowerUp

I have a Polar FT40, and it says it's water resistant to 30 meters. But if I swim with it (and try to figure out what my burn is), it doesn't register my hr, and I just get 00%.

I'm thinking that maybe the water is impeding the electrical flow? Does anyone else have this problem, or know if it can be rectified, or if you just can't swim and monitor your hr? Thanks!

ltf304

From my experience with water resistant watches I wouldn't recommend swimming with it. They just don't work very well and I have had some get ruined because of it. There might be some that do but I think they are very expensive. I would just guess and maybe stop every once in a while and check your pulse. You don't want to ruin your nice watch!

MisdemeanorM

I swim with my Polar F6 all the time and it works well. Be sure it's positioned correctly and it's tight (and needless to say hopefully... under your suit :laugh: ). Also, never try to replace any batteries yourself or it will not be water resistant any more. Polars are made for being OK for pool use, so long as any servicing is done by sending it back in. Also, never push the watch buttons under water as it can force water into the mechanism. Also always wash the strap with soap after or the chlorine will eat through the elastic.

DianaPowerUp

Thanks for all the great advice, everyone! I think I may just swim without it, rather than fuss with it or potentially ruin it. I'll just have to check my hr periodically, I guess.

NAMsMommy

I swim with mine, It has to be tighter then when I am running, but it works.