Recommend your HRM!

BarbieAS

I'm starting to branch out into different types of cardio beyond the treadmill (classes, DVDs, etc) and I really think it's time to add a heart rate monitor into things. I know you get what you pay for, but I'm really looking to spend as little money as possible while still getting something that actually works. Doesn't need to be super fancy, just something I can use to nail down my calorie burn during a period of exercise with reasonable accuracy. Double bonus points if it's Amazon Prime eligible . Any recommendations?

chrisdearing

I have a Garmin FR60, here's the womens version - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Garmin-Womens-Watch-Heart-Monitor/dp/B002RHP0UO/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1358892738&sr=1-1

It's a great HRM, I use it linked to my Concept 2 rowing machine, then upload my workouts to Endomondo, which in turn updates on My Fitness Pal.

Brilliant review here - http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2010/02/garmin-fr60-review-in-depth.html

iWaffle

Try the FT4 or FT7. I have the latter and it works great.


http://fitnesselectronicsblog.com/polar-ft1-ft2-ft4-ft7-heart-rate-monitors-review/

GoTeamMeaghan

i have the polar ft4-got it on amazon.com for $60 and i looooove it! super easy to use!

bearwith

the gps ones are good because they track your mileage

Ecce_Signum

I have the Garmin Forerunner 405CX and as it's quite old now it's a LOT cheaper than when I bought it. Works for me though not sure how the battery would last for a 100 mile+ run

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Garmin-Forerunner-405CX-Sports-Monitor/dp/B0025UHKNS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358895140&sr=8-1

MsJayeKaye

i have the polar ft4-got it on amazon.com for $60 and i looooove it! super easy to use!

Same for me!

vicki81868

Polar FT4 as well! Great price, super easy to use. Worth every penny.

Lift_This_

I have a New Balance N4 and I love it!!! sleek and the face is not super huge...i have small wrists, so it fits just right.

ClareOH

I have the polar ft4 also and love it!

melt57

I have the Garmin Forerunner 405CX and as it's quite old now it's a LOT cheaper than when I bought it. Works for me though not sure how the battery would last for a 100 mile+ run

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Garmin-Forerunner-405CX-Sports-Monitor/dp/B0025UHKNS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358895140&sr=8-1

I have the same one, and as much as like the features once you start your workout, I find the touch sensitive ring surrounding the face to be a bit twitchy. I do love uploading my workouts to Garmin Connect and having a place to track everything automatically.

geebusuk

I like the Motoactv because it also acts as a pedometer, as well as working for loads of different sports.
You do need to get the HRM strap separately, but it should work with any modern HRM strap (ie Garmin ones etc), so it's easy to find a cheap one.
For other sports, it will also connect to a cycle sensors and shoe sensors.

If you keep it on you during waking hours it will give you about the best guess you can get for calories burnt in a day.

ajrichardson1985

I also have a Polar FT4 and I LOVE it!! It's super user friendly, not too expensive, and mine has never had an issue reading my heart rate. I would highly recommend it.

Possibly helpful, I've also had a Sportsline hrm and it not only had trouble reading my heart rate but it was rather complicated and confusing to use. I would suggest staying away from them.

OriginalRedfishMan

Wahoo Blue Bluetooth with GPS app. Gives status updates over your headphones, gives speed and miles. Integrates with other apps.