HRM Polar FT7 - got one...now what

DebbieLaviolette

I broke down and bought a Polar FT7..not a whole lot of info in the box. I went through the settings..I think I got them all. Now what? Is there a quick way to download the data for review/comparison?

Oh and what's with the removable computer on the chest strap??? Anybody have any issues with this?

Any helpful info in appreciated at this time. :-)

thanks a bunch,
Debbie

fitnhealthyccthatsme

Hi Debbie, I'm just popping in to wait for responses. I just learned about the equipment and I'm curious. ~Cheryl

FJMilner

My FT7 just arrived so I'd like to know too! :bigsmile:

dad106

In order to download the data to a computer, you need the optional flow-link attachment. It sells for about 50 dollars I think.

Otherwise from the main screen(when the time is displayed) press the down button until you get to data, press the ok button and then you can see your data from all the sessions.

As far as the computer goes, I just strap it on and go. You need to make sure that you remove it after each session so that the battery doesn't drain out.. but other then that I don't see an issue, unless yours is not working.

Also make sure to wash the strap after every 5th use with just detergent and no fabric softener. Also line dry and don't put it in the dryer.

The settings should have been time and date, height, weight, age and gender. After that just attach the computer to the strap, wet the electores(the gray squares on the strap) put the strap on, press the OK button once to start and twice to start counting. Then just go. Once your done press the back button once to pause, twice to continue and three times to stop.

DebbieLaviolette

Thanks a bunch dad106!!!! . I just took it out the box and had never seen an attachment for the strap like this one so I was very unsure of what I'd purchased but I've read tons of good reviews here on MFP and other sites.

Do you think it's best to hand wash the strap? I'm leary about putting it in the washing machine with the rest of the laundry...it may dissappear like the socks do LOL

kapeluza

Don't forget to set up the Vo2max! That is very important to get accurate calorie count!

bizco

The owner's manual can be found on Polar's website.

Mike523

Don't forget to set up the Vo2max! That is very important to get accurate calorie count!

The FT7 does not have the Vo2max / fitness test settings.

dad106

Thanks a bunch dad106!!!! . I just took it out the box and had never seen an attachment for the strap like this one so I was very unsure of what I'd purchased but I've read tons of good reviews here on MFP and other sites.

Do you think it's best to hand wash the strap? I'm leary about putting it in the washing machine with the rest of the laundry...it may dissappear like the socks do LOL

Meh, I threw mine in the washer twice, and so far so good. You can get a washing pouch if your really worried about it... but I don't think it will disappear.

@Mike523, the FT7 actually has fitness test properties, it's just not advertised.

Here it is from the Manual:
While training, the Polar FT7 displays your optimal training intensity for burning fat and improving fitness. These intensities may vary depending on your daily physical and mental condition. When you start recording a training session, the FT7 analyses your current condition and, if necessary, will adjust the intensities accordingly.

This intelligent training computer can detect your body's daily state from your heart rate and heart rate variability. When your body is recovered from previous training sessions and is not tired or stressed, then you are prepared for more intensive training.

So this leads me to believe that it does use Vo2max, but you can't adjust it manually or anything like that. Only the FT40 and up let you do that, I believe.

DebbieLaviolette

so was the FT7 a good purchase or should I have gone with something more recent?

dad106

so was the FT7 a good purchase or should I have gone with something more recent?

The FT7 is a very good purchase.. like I said, I have one and I love mine. I think i'd be lost in the gym without it now.

If your looking for just the basics like heart rate and calorie counting, its a perfect. If you wanted more bells and whistles(like a GPS etc) then you may have wanted to go with something more higher end.

pverbarg

I've been washing the strap every week in my washer with no issues over about 6 months. I just find I sometimes have to readjust the strap as it sometimes loosens up in the wash.

Mkmassey3

I have been researching HRM's, and this is some very good info. I keep thinking I want one with the GPS, but not sure that I really, really need it....I want to order something soon though. Thanks for all of the good info. Anyone have the kind with the little Pod you wear in your shoe? Wondering how that feels....thanks

~melissa

DebbieLaviolette

dad106 - Nope this is perfect... I just want HR and cals in the gym. Thanks for all your insight!!!