Read this if you own a Polar FT4

monicainacoma · August 2011

I'm looking for opinions on this particular model. My main use is going to be to track calories burned during exercise. I know it can't be completely accurate, but I hear this is one of the most accurate ones. I'm not interested in the FT7, because it's basically the same but with the added computer linking, which I don't want or need. So, please enlighten me. :-) Also, I was thinking of getting the men's version, because I like the color better. Can anyone tell me how it measures? My wrist is 6.25 inches. Thanks!

McFrench · August 2011

I love my FT4. I have a mens watch, because I liked the color better. It's a great investment. I use it almost daily.

olivia3263 · August 2011

I have the FT4 and I love it! The only thing I wish it did was consider your VO2 max into the equation. I have a naturally healthy heart, but combined with all the running I'm doing my resting heart rate is only 45. I'm fit, but I'm not THAT fit, so when I calculate my average heart rate with my VO2 max it gives me a few more calories burned (which I happily eat) than what my heart rate monitor says. The difference isn't that much, but I think it's an important number to factor in.

But if you have an iphone, this app (http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/runners-calculator/id400564785?mt=8) is well worth the $1.99 to go with it - it factors VO2 max in easily so you can get a better calorie read, in my opinion.

I should warn you though, getting the heart rate monitor definitely made me push myself harder and within a week of using it, I pushed myself too hard too fast, and now I'm forced to not run for a couple days because I got tendonitus

Can't wait to get back out there!

dad106 · August 2011

The Polar FT4 is a good HRM.. and while it's similar to the FT7 there are a few differences.

The FT4 just tells you what heart rate's you need to be in between, while the FT7 tells you if it's a fat burning zone or the fitness zone and adjusts those as needed(if you get fitter or the workout condition changes). Also the FT7 has more colors then the FT4(which isn't really that big of a difference, but for some it is).

The rest though is pretty much the same.. and as long as you set it up properly and update it regularly, it will be pretty accurate at estimating calories burned.

mamashatzie · August 2011

I have the FT4 and it's fantastic. I use it to let me know when I need to work harder to get my heart rate higher, and of course track calories burned. I like that I can pause it mid-workout and resume later...for example when I walk my son to the park, I pause when we get there to play with him, and then resume for the walk home.

lwoodroff · August 2011

Had it a couple of weeks the silver watch fits fine and manually set my own Target heart rate zone. It has shown that the gym machines are far too generous for me so am trusting the hrm instead!