Heart rate monitor with or without Gps ?

Saab_2015
Saab_2015 Posts: 277 Member
edited December 1 in Fitness and Exercise
I half way throught my first half marathon plan and thinks its a good time to get a heart rate monitor to make sure I'm doing the correct sessions as I tend to be running at the same speed even on slow runs, also to save carting my phone to map my run was thinking about a watch. I don't want to spend loads but your suggestions are welcomed also thoughts on the matter.

Replies

  • NorthCascades
    NorthCascades Posts: 10,968 Member
    I love having GPS in my watch, it's pretty versatile and a lot better than the old days of having (and being able to forget) a hiking GPS. I use mine cycling, swimming, running, hiking, and for strength training. I don't like to run with my phone because of what happened the last time:

    26579079160_48021c2ae9_o_d.jpg
  • Saab_2015
    Saab_2015 Posts: 277 Member
    that's my biggest fear ... which one doe you have or would recommend ?
  • NorthCascades
    NorthCascades Posts: 10,968 Member
    I have a Garmin Fenix 3. I love it but if you want it for running only there are cheaper options. The Forerunner line might be good, or Suunto's Ambit 3.
  • RoxieDawn
    RoxieDawn Posts: 15,488 Member
    edited May 2016
    Garmin Forerunner25 here.. You need the GPS, this really is not an option but the heart monitor is. But I do have both. Once upon a time I just had the device with HRM and did not cut it.

    You can still use Strava or Mapmyrun if you do not want the GPS.
  • cs4156
    cs4156 Posts: 27 Member
    I have FitBit Surge for GPS, works fine for what I need.
  • not_a_runner
    not_a_runner Posts: 1,343 Member
    I have a Garmin VivoActive HR which was $250. I haven't tested it for too many runs yet, but I lift and cross train in other ways more often, so being able to pair it with a chest strap for HR was a big plus for me.
    I really like that I can have everything in one device - activity tracking replaced my older model fitbit, HR monitor replaced my polar, and GPS lets me leave my phone at home when I do run!
    Just make sure the GPS is self supported - or whatever they call it? I believe the some of the Fitbit models, like the Blaze, don't have this feature. If I wouldn't have gone with the Garmin I would have probably tried the Fitbit Surge.
  • MeanderingMammal
    MeanderingMammal Posts: 7,866 Member
    I'd say the question should be GPS with or without HR, as it's the former that'll give you most useful information about your running.

    It really depends on your budget, personally I'd recommend Garmin but depending where your price point is Suunto are well regarded at the top end.

    I use a Forerunner 310XT, 20 hour battery life is good for my goal races, but nowadays I'd go for the 920XT or the 630. Fenix is very good but overpriced given that few people will be using it as designed.
  • NorthCascades
    NorthCascades Posts: 10,968 Member
    When/while/as I run, the main thing I use GPS for is to know my pace. Obviously that's pretty important. Later, the map of where I ran (or rode or ...) is neat and it opens up a lot of options. For example, you need some kind of GPS to participate in Strava segments, if that's your thing. I like having a personal map of what I've done.

    17723822859_d50eb8eb94_o_d.jpg

    Blue = cycling, yellow = hiking, red = kayaking, white = skiing.
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