Am I getting an accurate reading....

DjBliss05

From my HRM?

I bought it w/o doing enough homework. It is a sportsline watch. I push the button about a million times while I am working out so I think it should theoretically have close to the right heart rate at most times.

The problem is that I didn't have to enter my weight, height, or age.

Does that mean I am not getting an accurate reading?

I was thinking about getting a polar f6... but I really can't afford it right now. If it isn't off by a lot then I will wait, but I have no idea how close my reading is to accurate. Any thoughts?

DjBliss05

From my HRM?

I bought it w/o doing enough homework. It is a sportsline watch. I push the button about a million times while I am working out so I think it should theoretically have close to the right heart rate at most times.

The problem is that I didn't have to enter my weight, height, or age.

Does that mean I am not getting an accurate reading?

I was thinking about getting a polar f6... but I really can't afford it right now. If it isn't off by a lot then I will wait, but I have no idea how close my reading is to accurate. Any thoughts?

chipper15173

when i was getting ready to get mine, my sisters doctor (heart doc) told her to get one that has a chest strap, cause it's right on the heart and better readings and to get one where you can set the weight, age, etc.
the machines at the gym are set for a standard weight and height for the adverage woman. that's why there is such a difference in readings. your HRM may have the same standard settings. it's my guess you are not getting accurage readings. why would you have to keep pushing a button. i push mine to begin reading and don't push it again until i am done. i can set mine to show the HR and cals being burned at the same time. mine is a nordtrak i got a used sporting goods store. it was new, 1/2 price because it's not made anymore. that was 2 yrs ago.
hope this helps.

shorerider

If you don't have to enter anything, then it's not giving you an accurate figure--it can't really without taking into consideration all those factors.

ohthatbambi

Without knowing your info, it is just giving you a generalized guess like the machines at the gym. Usually the gym machines show more calories burned than my hrm tells me I burn. I have the F6 and love it.

DjBliss05

I think I'm going to take the plunge and spend the money on the Polar F6.

I really want an accurate reading! So time to break out the credit card, lol.

Also, time for a new scale. My old one is driving me crazy. I get four different numbers if I step on the scale 4 times. :grumble:

Anyone want to buy a used HRM watch?? :devil:

Just kidding! :laugh:

DjBliss05

One more question... do you need the chest strap for the polar f6?

I found one in the stores today and I am gonna go pick it up. I don't really love the idea of wearing a chest strap, but I will obviously if I need it to work!

Thanks!

jenninsocal

The polar f4 (I think thats which one, the $60 one) came with a "chest strap" but I put it right under where my bra ends, thats what the pictures showed, so it isnt on my chest, more on my ribs.

pettmybunny

My HRM has a chest strap, once it's on, it's not noticable, sort of like wearing a bra. Just something you wear....

ChubbyBunny

Yes you need to use the chest strap.
Even with a polar readings can be off a bit.
Mine spazzes out when I do certain moves and the sensors don't touch my skin.