Has anyone had some good experiences with heart rate monitors?
I'm not looking for a running-specific heart-rate monitor, but a basic one that will accurately (as possible, I know these things aren't 100%) count calories, monitor heart rate over a set amount of time, average out the heart rate.
I'd like to be able to use it while biking, lifting, running, or doing anything really. I'd preferably like to use one that has a watch form-factor.
I'd like to stay under $100.
Thanks...
One word for heart rate monitors: Polar. Many models to choose from, EKG accurate. Every single calorie counter I've ever encountered is inaccurate. If you like to time your runs, make sure it has a stopwatch.
I'm actually more partial to Timex than Polar. It basically has the same functions but a little cheaper and the watch doesn't seem as bulky. The other nice thing is you can replace the batteries yourself instead of sending it in (like with Polar). It definitely has anything you know (min/max/avg HR, avg HR per split, Calories, Time in HR Zone) I bought one for $90 last november and you can actually get it for $55 on amazon right now (http://www.amazon.com/Timex-T5J031-Digital-Fitness-Monitor/dp/B000P8VWRC/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods&qid=1217380143&sr=8-1).
Here is the product description from amazon:
100-hour chronograph with lap and split, either in large digits
27-lap memory with average heart rate per laps
100-hour countdown timer
Alarm with 5-minute backup
Month/day/date display with 12/24-hour time
3.5-year battery life
Time and date,
Chronograph with lap and split,
One top pusher for mindless lap and split,
27-Lap memory recall,
Countdown stop timer,
1-Alarm, INDIGLO® night-light,
Water-resistant 30m,
Workout summary mode:
Calorie expenditure,
Recalls minimum,
average and peak heart rate,
View heart rate as % Max or Beats per minute (BPM),
5-Auto and 1-manual heart rate zones with Time-in-zone recall,
Recovery zone,
Audible and pointer zone alert,
Owner replaceable battery on chest strap,
Data Recorder 2 compatible
Polar as a company is fundamentally a HR monitor developer.
Their roots are in EKG machines. Timex? Nike? Suunto?
I have read product comparisons of brands and Polar is the best when it comes to HR monitoring. In my opinion they have the best HR/timing/multi function wrist devices made.
I do believe you can get a HR monitor for app. $100 (or less?)
Of course you can take the other road...then I wish you luck.