Showing posts with label polar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label polar. Show all posts

Sunday, July 1, 2012

Polar S625X Heart Rate Monitor Watch Review

Polar S625X Heart Rate Monitor Watch
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I LOVE my Polar S625X Heart Rate Monitor... and I'm VERY picky about the design and implementation of techno gadgets. There are only three things I've thought of that it could do better.
First, the temperature sensor is on the wrist side of the watch. So, when I was running and the air temperature was about 16 degrees fahrenheit, the sensor reported 65 degrees. Since I know of no good reason for this design decision, I have to call this a silly and unfortunate design error.
Second, the accelerometor could probably very easily provide a pedometer reading, i.e., "How many steps did that run require?" It doesn't... at least as far as I can tell.
Third, the menu system appears to be inaccessible during a recording session. That is, you have to stop the recording session to look at or change file information or user information, etc.
But, other than these 3 things, I'm very impressed. (I'd be very very impressed if the pedometer and menu shortcomings mentioned above could be fixed via an EPROM upgrade via the Infra Red port.)
The Polar S625X Heart Rate Monitor is a complex tool. Plan on spending between 4 and 6 hours of concentrated study to learn to use it to its full capability.
And finally, I'd like to add that PC Coach/Biometrics, Inc. shipped on time and provided EXCELLENT technical support when I asked them questions about this HRM. I highly recommend them.
20080608 Update:
The original battery is still working! That's about 3.5 years of regular usage 2 to 5 times per week!! I'll soon have to replace it. But I'm very happy with the S625X's battery life.
There is one thing I hope the folks at Polar will do for me, however. Wouldn't it be cool if Polar would make a bathroom scale that would interface via wireless to the S625X so that the watch could gather my weight and body mass index info, too?!! ;-)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Polar S625X Heart Rate Monitor Watch

The Polar S625X provides runners, triathletes, and coaches with a complete tool to measure performance and workout intensity. With the optional cycling and power sensors and enhanced training tools like the Polar OwnOptimizer recovery test, plus altitude and ascent for route profile, the S625X lets you cross train and put the power of information to work for you. It includes the S1 foot pod, a shoe-mounted sensor that continually relays computed velocity and distance information to a specially-adapted, wristwatch-based display. You'll be able to get data on total speed and distance, speed displayed in pace or kmph/mph as well as a distance-based interval timer.
It comes with the S625X wrist receiver, a transmitter that's worn comfortably around your chest, and an elastic strap to hold the transmitter in place. The wristwatch-like receiver features a large display that includes 12/24-hour time of day, alarm, and stopwatch. It provides readings of maximum heart rate of total exercise, average/maximum heart rate of each lap, recovery measurement (by either heart rate divided or time), and interval timers.
You can also better assess your training data using the included Polar Precision Performance (PPP) 4.0 software when you transfer data from the monitor to the PC via a wireless infrared (IR) connection. This feature requires a PC with an IR window or you will need a separate Polar IR interface.
The OwnCal feature shows your energy expenditure during one exercise session as well as your accumulated kilocalories during several exercise sessions. It also allows you to set daily and weekly exercise goals in terms of calorie expenditure. The OwnIndex feature will determine your fitness level, track your improvements, and provide motivation. Polar's OwnCode technology blocks unwanted signals from other heart rate monitors, ensuring disturbance-free transmission of your heart rate data.
The S625X's visual and audible alarms alert you when you reach your target heart rate zone. The Time in Target Zone feature calculates the percentage of maximum heart rate or beats per minute in your personal target zone. You can use this feature together with the Total Exercise Time to determine the effectiveness of your exercise program.
Feature Detail:
Displays your heart rate as beats per minute and percentage of maximum heart rate, average heart rate, and exercise duration
S1 foot pod shoe-mounted sensor that continually relays computed velocity and distance information to monitor
Runners' data including total speed and distance, speed displayed in pace or kmph/mph
Wirelessly sends exercise data to PC via infrared connection
Allows you to set 5 exercise sets for interval training with HR target zones and recovery calculation
Records a complete file and five summary files of the exercises
Predicts your maximal oxygen uptake
Reduces possible interference from other heart rate monitors
Target heart rate zones with audible and visual alarm
UpLink feature enables download of exercise set from Polar web site
Large easy-to-read display with backlighting and split screen
24-hour clock with day/week indicator and stopwatch
1.5-year average battery life
Water resistant to 30 meters

What's in the Box? S625X heart rate monitor watch unit, S1 foot pod, wireless transmitter, elastic strap, battery (built-in CR2032 lithium cell), Polar Precision Performance (PPP) 4.0 software, printed instructions
Manufacturer Warranty 2-year limited warranty
Note: Polar heart rate monitors are precision instruments; consumers are not advised to change their own battery. Polar recommends that all service be done by an authorized Polar Service Center which will include a warranty for 90 days on repairs and 6 months for batteries.


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Saturday, March 10, 2012

Polar FT7F Heart Rate Monitor 1 ea Review

Polar FT7F Heart Rate Monitor 1 ea
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Before settling on the Polar FT7 Heart Rate Monitor, I did a lot of research on the various types of HRM out there. I was looking for a HRM that wouldn't just give me my heart rate, but I also wanted a bit more features, but I didn't need a lot of features that the higher numbered FT models offered.
When I saw the FT7 model, I was surprised to see so little reviews or mentions of this model. I'm not sure why, maybe this is a newer model or Polar just prefers directing people to the more expensive models because I kept seeing numerous reviews for the F6 or F7, FT40, and FT60 models.
After comparing various Polar HRMs, I settled for the FT7 because it had all the features that I was looking for in a HRM.
Watch/HRM
-Monitors heart rates. I found the monitoring to be accurate except underwater. (I'll go into detail about that a bit later.)
-Counts Calories. The Calorie counter seems to be quite accurate. I have used it for walking, spinning classes, swimming, and strength training sessions and the calorie counts are reasonable.
-Target heart rate graph. The graph is useful for seeing where you are and if you're within your minimum and maximum HR "fitness" ranges during a session.
-Very user friendly. Even though there aren't any instructions on setting up the watch, I didn't think they were needed. I didn't even bother looking at the manual until I was done configuring the watch, but I've never been one to read manuals. However, others may find the lack of a detailed manual a bit frustrating.
-Stores Training Files. Which include records of session durations, calories burned, average HR, Maximum HR, and the amount of time your workout HR was spent in the target range.
-Weekly Summaries. This basically sums up the total amount of time spent training, the total calories during each session, and how many sessions during the week.
-Settings are very easy to change especially if you have any weight changes and want to keep an accurate count of calories being burned.
-There is also a backlight, which is quite handy if you're somewhere with minimal lighting.
-I also found out that if you hold the "down arrow" button, you can change the time to a second time zone that you can set by going through the "quick menu" which is accessed by holding down the "backlight button (*)" which also leads to the "button lock" feature. If you hold down the "up arrow" button, you can change the "Watch face" to just display the time and date or the time and date and logo, which is smaller on the face, but it includes seconds and FT7 logo along the bottom.
-The women's watch is black with a gold stripe down the center of the band. I found the design to be all right. It is less flashy and colorful as the other models, which is one reason I like this watch. I can wear it with my work clothes and it does not stand out much.
-User changeable batteries. This was something I really wanted out of my HRM. I never liked sending something to the manufacturer for replacements even under warranty. I just don't like dealing with shipping, waiting, and extra fees.
-Water Resistant. I have used this HRM in the pool and the monitoring is relatively accurate when it actually reads the transmitter. I believe the Polar website notes that in some highly chlorinated pools or seawater the transmitter will not be picked up underwater. The pool in my gym is very chlorinated and there were times when the HRM will not pick up my heart rate. But if I just sit still in the water for a minute or so the watch will pick up the signal again. Though this can get annoying if you are trying to swim laps for endurance. The watch still gives me a fair calculation of calories I have burned during my swim sessions. Though the calorie count is most likely lower since I'm not sure how long the watch is not reading my heart rate during times when I am swimming several laps nonstop. I also tried using this in a saltwater treated pool and the moment I went underwater the transmitter does not work at all. So I'm guessing that this HRM will not work if you are swimming in the ocean.
Chest Strap
-The Chest strap is very comfortable, and I usually don't feel it, but then again it might be because I'm used to having something strapped around my chest all day. And I have had no problems of it slipping. It is also recommended to wet the straps a little. I usually just wet my hands a bit and rub against the cloth area, and I'm good to go.
-User changeable batteries. The transmitter pops off easily from the strap, and like the watch, I can change my own batteries, but unfortunately the watch and transmitter use different types of batteries.
-Another perk is that most of the machines in my gym also pick up the transmitter readings, allowing me not have to keep glancing at my watch while I'm on the elliptical or cycling.
Overall, I really like this watch. For the price I paid, it was worth it and it gives me all the basic things I need to monitor my workout sessions.
If you want a simple watch that gives you fairly accurate heart rates, calorie burns, training records, and user changeable batteries the FT7 is a cheaper option to the FT40 and FT60 models.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Polar FT7F Heart Rate Monitor 1 ea

Clear Training GuidanceFor those who want to know if they¿re improving their fitness or burning fat. The EnergyPointer tells you if the main effect of your training is fitness improvement or fat burning Displays calories burned Comes with comfortable textile transmitter and coded heart rate transmission to avoid cross-talk Body Measurement Features Average and maximum heart rate of training: Heart rate - bpm / % Heart rate is the measurement of the work your heart does. Heart rate can be expressed as the number of beats per minute or as percentage of your maximum heart rate. Heart rate can also be expressed as a percentage of your heart rate reserve, meaning the difference between your resting heart rate and maximum heart rate (HRR = HRmax - HRrest). In Polar software or during strength training, heart rate can be displayed as a graphical trend. HR-based target zones with visual and audible alarm You can define your target zones for a training session based on heart rate to help define the right intensity. When you are out of the preset zones, the training computer will give a visual and audible alarm. HRmax (user set) Manual target zone - bpm (upper limit) This feature enables you to define the target zone as you want and is suitable for your training. You can set the target zone for your training as beats per minute (bpm), as a percentage of your maximum heart rate, or as a percentage of your heart rate reserve (HRR%). Polar EnergyPointer EnergyPointer is an easy-to-use feature which tells you during a training session if the main effect of your training is fat burning or fitness improvement. EnergyPointer visually indicates the center point between these two training effects, so when you are below that point, you are improving fat burning, and above that point, you are improving your aerobic fitness. Polar OwnCal® - calorie expenditure Polar OwnCal calculates

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Monday, March 5, 2012

Polar FS2 Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black) Review

Polar FS2 Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I was originally hesitant to purchase any heart rate monitor because I wasn't sure if the basic feature of monitoring would work well.
I couldn't decide on a brand until I read the other HR watch reviews and discovered that Polar is one of the leading brands.
This watch is very simple. It's got 1 button! I bought this FS1 watch because I just wanted something to help focus my gym workouts. I wanted a few other features but didn't want to pay the 2x or greater pricing for it.
Pros:
- The single button on the watch is easy to get used to. Easy to start when you exercise
- Heart rate works well and reliably when the chest strap is well moistened. Good when you're already sweating.
- In the gym, there's a "Polar Heartrate Ready" logos on LifeFitness machines and some other machines (I'm a member at 24hr fitness). That indicates that it automatically reads the chest strap. So you don't even need to wear the watch!
Cons:
- When enabling the heartrate monitor (called "EXE or exercise mode on the watch), the HR feedback is autodetected, so the user can't do anything to test if it works. You just watch and wait. This could possibly be true about the other high end Polar watches, but this is a small usability thing that I don't like.
- The chest strap isn't uniquely coded so it can crosstalk. I haven't had the problem at the gym since I haven't been working out right beside anyone who's wearing a HR monitor. However, the HR meter on the adjacent gym machine will be funky when someone's using it =-P.
- No backlight. I refused to spend more money on a HR watch. But then, why does the backlight feature cost an extra $20. Shame on you Polar.
- There's no MIN and MAX feature. Why not, this watch is a computer and we've had calculator watches for 20 year? Why does polar sell 10 different watches for different sports? Polar needs to simplify their product line and offer better price for product.
- 2 year battery life. Another reason not to spend any more for a HR watch.
Hope that helps all the new buyers out there.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Polar FS2 Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black)

In order to reach your fitness goals, you need to exercise at the right intensity. The stylish Polar FS2 heart rate monitor (HRM) helps you to easily and accurately measure your heart rate to help you get to just the right intensity or your exertion level. This basic HRM features added stopwatch and time-of-day watch features, extra-large digits for easy readability, and one-button functionality. It provides a visual and audible alarm when you reach your target heart rate zone. It provides information on total exercise time and average heart rate during total exercise time, as well as maximum heart rate of total exercise. It will also record the exercise date. It's water resistant to 50 meters and has a convenient backlight.
Display features (in beats per minute, or bmp):
EKG accurate heart rate
Manual target zone

About Polar The first EKG accurate wireless heart rate monitor was invented by Polar back in 1977 as a training tool for the Finnish National Cross Country Ski Team. The concept of "intensity training" by heart rate swept the athletic world in the eighties. By the 1990s, individuals were looking to heart rate monitors not only for performance training needs, but also for achieving everyday fitness goals. Today, the same concept of heart rate training is being used by world-class athletes as well as everyday people trying to lose weight. Polar is the leading brand among consumers, coaches, and personal trainers worldwide and the company is committed to not only producing the best products, but also being the leading educator on the benefits of heart rate based exercise.


Buy Now

Click here for more information about Polar FS2 Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black)

Saturday, January 28, 2012

Polar RS800G3 Multisport GPS Computer Heart Rate Monitor Watch with FREE USB 2.0 Interface Review

Polar RS800G3 Multisport GPS Computer Heart Rate Monitor Watch with FREE USB 2.0 Interface
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I was somewhat disheartened by the two earlier reviews, sounds like the first person didn't even have one but felt compelled to share I guess . . . I purchased one anyway and have been using it for a few weeks. My first run with it was the Country Music Marathon in Nashville. 26.08 miles was the final reading. Not too bad for right out of the box. Pace did seem to jump around but I have changed the record rate to 3 seconds and it seemed to fix the problem. I wore the receiver on the back of my shorts (where I usually wear my ipod) - probably not the best location and maybe why the marathon distance was off, but I haven't got around to trying the arm band yet. The receiver is only slightly bulkier than my Nano, not really noticeable when clipped to shorts. Takes 20-40 seconds to lock.
I had an rs200 that really worked well so I was familiar with the menu structure. It does take a while to get used to but with all of the display and measurement options, I was able to find a setup that gives me exactly what I am looking for. I was using the web based software for recording my data from the rs 200 and haven't used the PC based software that came with this new watch yet. Too bad Polar doesn't support Mac . . . The WIND heart rate strap is coded so it doesn't interfere with other monitors but as mentioned before, it doesn't work with most gym equipment either but you can still just wear the watch to check your HR. I am thinking about getting the footpod for gym workouts. Once every other day or so, I will accidentally hit the start button but I always hear the beep and turn it off. Has a function where you can identify the shoe (up to 3) you are running in that day - great if you alternate between shoes and want to track mileage on each.
All in all a good system. I wear the watch daily - it's not nearly as large as the Garmin 405 (the other option I considered). I would have gone with the Garmin if it was able to be worn as a regular watch and you didn't have to recharge the battery periodically. 4 stars for lack of Mac support.
Hope this helps.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Polar RS800G3 Multisport GPS Computer Heart Rate Monitor Watch with FREE USB 2.0 Interface

Boost your training regimen with Polar's RS800G3 multisport training system, the most comprehensive planning and analysis tool for athletes who train across multiple _disciplines. The RS800G3 bundle includes a wristwatch, a heart rate transmitter, a software CD, and a GPS sensor, and is ideal for multisport athletes who want the ability to track speed and distance measurements in a variety of active pursuits, such as running, cycling, hiking, kayaking, cross-country skiing, and inline skating. By employing the RS800G3's integrated information setup, athletes can plan their routines, measure their bodies' response, and analyze their performance against personal goals. And because the RS800G3 provides the data that helps athletes avoid over- and under-training, users can train in the most efficient manner possible to achieve peak performance and fitness.
Although all of the items are important, it's the wristwatch that acts as the heart of the system, with such features as a highly accurate wireless heart rate gauge, a built-in fitness test, an interval trainer, a host of calculating options (including average and maximum heart rate, altitude and ascent details, and a countdown timer), and the ability to record 99 exercise files. In effect, the watch serves as a digital personal trainer, helping guide an athlete through detailed workouts of his or her own design.
When combined with the G3 GPS sensor, however, the system is even more robust. Incorporating the SiRFstarIII chipset, the G3 GPS sensor talks wirelessly to the RS800 watch to let athletes easily measure speed and distance for a variety of outdoor sports. The G3 GPS sensor is also water-resistant and weighs only 80 grams, making it tough and light enough to withstand training in the harshest of conditions. Simply strap the GPS sensor to your arm, a belt, or the top of a backpack and you're set.
Finally, Polar's ProTrainer 5 software--a Windows-based application for training planning and analysis--lets athletes and coaches easily create and share specific training plans and analyze recorded data. Users simply transfer the data between the computer and the wristwatch via a wireless infrared signal. The software can upload as many as 21 planned training sessions to the wristwatch, along with insightful graphs to track performance.
About Polar The first EKG accurate wireless heart rate monitor was invented by Polar back in 1977 as a training tool for the Finnish National Cross Country Ski Team. The concept of "intensity training" by heart rate swept the athletic world in the eighties. By the 1990s, individuals were looking to heart rate monitors not only for performance training needs, but also for achieving everyday fitness goals. Today, the same concept of heart rate training is being used by world-class athletes as well as everyday people trying to lose weight. Polar is the leading brand among consumers, coaches, and personal trainers worldwide and the company is committed to not only producing the best products, but also being the leading educator on the benefits of heart rate based exercise.


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Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Polar RS100 Heart Rate Monitor and Stopwatch Review

Polar RS100 Heart Rate Monitor and Stopwatch
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
It's unisex, easy to use, and has all of the features a runner needs without all of the expensive frills. I chose the RS100 because it had features that the women-specific watches did not, including interval timers, two zone limit monitors, and a back light (essential if you run at night or cross train in spin class where the lights are usually low). I recommended spending a half hour reading the manual and setting up the watch that way. It covers every feature simply and clearly.
Being able to set my own heart rate and percentage limits is great since those numbers change as my fitness improves. I also like that the running total tells me the percent of calories burned from fat, super essential for proper training.
The total only keeps track of one run at a time, which is fine. I log my runs in an Excel spreadsheet and I've found this to be more useful than storing them in the watch because I can write all sorts of formula combinations and create averages and see a big picture and completely geek out. Other models allow you to upload logs to the Polar website but paying the extra money wasn't worth it for me. I like doing that stuff myself.
The medium chest strap fits me fine once it is adjusted (female, 34" chest) and stays in place. Be sure to moisten the transmitters before wearing, a few drops of water will do, your sweat will take care of the rest ...
My only issue is that the watch is a little bulky for my small wrists, which causes some discomfort at times, but I've come up with a few workarounds to solve the bulky problem:
1. I wear it somewhat loose but not so loose that it spins around on its own. This keeps some of the pressure off. It's loose enough that I can manually rotate the face around to the inside of my wrist if I need to.
2. For longer runs, I sometimes wear the watch strapped to my gear belt or zipped in my pocket. Since the watch has interval timers and warning beeps when I go out of zone, I've been able to keep track using my hearing instead of my eyes. The beep is pretty loud so as long as my headphones aren't cranked, I can still hear it.
3. The treadmills at my gym are Polar ready so they pick up the transmission without me having the wear the watch. While the treadmill doesn't have any logging features, I can at least keep track of my heart rate during a run if I don't want to wear the watch.
Overall, it's a great running computer for the money.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Polar RS100 Heart Rate Monitor and Stopwatch

In order to reach your fitness goals, you need to exercise at the right intensity. The Polar RS100 wrist heart rate monitor helps you to easily and accurately measure your heart rate to help you get to just the right intensity or your exertion level. This basic HRM features added stopwatch and time-of-day watch features as well as extra-large digits for easy readability. The Time in Target Zone feature calculates the amount of total exercise time spent in your personal target zone. You can use this feature together with the Total Exercise Time to determine the effectiveness of your exercise program.
The RS100 displays heart rate as beats per minute (beats per minute) and as a percentage of the maximum heart rate. The Target Zone feature can be set manually or automatically (for age/weight), and the RS100 provides visual and auditory alarms when you've moved away from the zone. Other features include dual time zone, alarm with snooze, and water resistance to 50 meters.
It's a great choice for using in large groups, where other exercisers might be using wireless training gear that could interfere with your own signal. The RS100's coded transmission prevents crosstalk with other monitors so you'll get a personalized workout--even in a class environment. It also includes the following exclusive Polar features:
Polar OwnCal: This feature shows your energy expenditure during one exercise session as well as your accumulated kilocalories during several exercise sessions. You can set daily and weekly exercise goals in terms of calorie expenditure with the OwnCal feature. Because the OwnCal tracks both the energy expenditure during one exercise session and the accumulated kilocalories during a longer time e.g. one week, it helps in achieving both short term and long term goals.
Polar OwnZone: This feature guides you through an appropriate warm-up routine and automatically determines a safe and effective exercise heart rate zone--your OwnZone--while taking into account your current physical condition.


Manufacturer's Warranty The original purchaser of this heart rate monitor is backed by a limited warranty that states that this product that the product will be free from defects in material or workmanship for two years from the date of purchase.
Note: Polar heart rate monitors are precision instruments; consumers are not advised to change their own battery. Polar recommends that all service be done by an authorized Polar Service Center which will include a warranty for 90 days on repairs and 6 months for batteries.
About Polar The first EKG accurate wireless heart rate monitor was invented by Polar back in 1977 as a training tool for the Finnish National Cross Country Ski Team. The concept of "intensity training" by heart rate swept the athletic world in the eighties. By the 1990s, individuals were looking to heart rate monitors not only for performance training needs, but also for achieving everyday fitness goals. Today, the same concept of heart rate training is being used by world-class athletes as well as everyday people trying to lose weight. Polar is the leading brand among consumers, coaches, and personal trainers worldwide and the company is committed to not only producing the best products, but also being the leading educator on the benefits of heart rate based exercise.


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Click here for more information about Polar RS100 Heart Rate Monitor and Stopwatch

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Polar FT60 Men's Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black with Red Display) Review

Polar FT60 Men's Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black with Red Display)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I have mixed feelings about this product right now. The functionality is excellent with this monitor. It does everything as well as or better than my previous two Polar heart Rate Monitors (both F11's).
My complaint is the red background. If you workout outside it's great and I'd give this a full 5/5 rating. Unfortunately I work out in group fitness classes and the display is hard to read sometimes. The red background is great in direct light and OK in moderate light. In very low light the light function works great. It's the "in between" low light conditions that are sometimes difficult to read.
If you workout in moderately low light conditions, get the white background not the red. The display may look nice in the pictures but it's hard to read without good lighting and the "light" function only works when the space is dark enough. In retrospect I would have preferred to have gone with the regular background for visibility during my workouts though.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Polar FT60 Men's Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black with Red Display)

The smartest way to better fitness, the Polar FT60 men's heart rate monitor watch helps you stay motivated and improve your conditioning. The FT60 works by first checking your daily condition, and then guiding you to the ideal training intensity for your age and fitness level. Knowing your heart rate not only helps you reach your personal fitness goal, but also improves your physical condition in general, as it's vitally important to train at the appropriate intensity level. If you exercise too hard, you may quit before you reach the real benefit, but if you work out too leisurely, you'll struggle to lose weight at all. The FT60 helps overcome these problems by encouraging you to map out a complete fitness routine.
The FT60 is packed with innovative training features to help you toward your exercise goals. First off, the watch includes a Polar Star personalized training program that adapts to your workout habits. By giving you weekly training targets and providing constant feedback, the watch guides you without being too strict, helping you reach your goals more efficiently. The watch also displays heart rate info in several ways, including as a percentage of your maximum heart rate, as beats per minute, and within a graphical target zone indicator. And should your heart rate exceed or dip below your target zone, the FT60 will sound an alarm that helps you return to form.
Users will also love the variety of proprietary Polar functions, including ZonePointer, Polar OwnZone, and Polar OwnCal modes. The ZonePointer is an audible and visual feature on the display of your FT60 that shows you where your current heart rate sits within your target heart rate zone. The Polar OwnZone mode, meanwhile, provides a customized target zone for individual exercise sessions. Finally, the Polar OwnCal mode shows your energy expenditure during one exercise session, as well as your accumulated kilocalories during several exercise sessions. You can also set daily and weekly exercise goals in terms of calorie expenditure, helping you achieve both short-term and long-term goals.
Other features include support for the G1 GPS sensor (sold separately); a built-in fitness test that measures your aerobic fitness at rest in just five minutes; a ZoneLock mode that lets you activate a target zone in the midst of training with the press of a button; an OwnCode mode that prevents crosstalk from other heart rate monitors nearby; a recording mode that tracks your average and maximum heart rate, calorie expenditure, distance, and total exercise time, and then puts it in an exercise file (with 100 total files); water resistance to 30 meters; a 12/24-hour clock with a day/week indicator; a built-in backlight; an alarm with a snooze; a low battery indicator; and a Polar FlowLink connection for transferring data between the FT60 and a computer. Sporting an attractive black housing with a red display, the watch carries a two-year warranty.
Manufacturer's Warranty The original purchaser of this heart rate monitor is backed by a limited warranty that states that this product that the product will be free from defects in material or workmanship for two years from the date of purchase.
About Polar The first EKG accurate wireless heart rate monitor was invented by Polar back in 1977 as a training tool for the Finnish National Cross Country Ski Team. The concept of "intensity training" by heart rate swept the athletic world in the eighties. By the 1990s, individuals were looking to heart rate monitors not only for performance training needs, but also for achieving everyday fitness goals. Today, the same concept of heart rate training is being used by world-class athletes as well as everyday people trying to lose weight. Polar is the leading brand among consumers, coaches, and personal trainers worldwide and the company is committed to not only producing the best products, but also being the leading educator on the benefits of heart rate based exercise.


Buy NowGet 20% OFF

Click here for more information about Polar FT60 Men's Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black with Red Display)

Monday, July 18, 2011

Polar FT2 Heart Rate Monitor Review

Polar FT2 Heart Rate Monitor
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Works as advertised. Used it at least 20 times so far--works very well as long ad your chest is wet with sweat!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Polar FT2 Heart Rate Monitor

FEATURES of the FT2 Heart Rate Monitor by Polar Shows heart rate on large and easy-to-read display Helps improve your fitness with automatic age-based heart rate target zone Displays a summary of your latest workout Simple one-button start and coded heart rate transmission to avoid cross-talk Records average and maximum heart rate Basic Features Automatic age-based target zone - bpm Average and maximum heart rate of training Heart rate - bpm HR-based target zones with visual and audible alarm Manual target zone - bpm Polar OwnCode (5kHz) - coded transmission Recording Features Training files (with summaries) - 1 Training Features HeartTouch - button-free operation of wrist unit Watch Features Backlight Backlight Date and weekday indicator Display text in English Time of day (12/24h) Water resistant - 30m Includes Polar FT2 training computer Polar T31 coded transmitter Getting Started Guide

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Click here for more information about Polar FT2 Heart Rate Monitor

Friday, May 13, 2011

Wearlink 31 Transmitter by Polar Review

Wearlink 31 Transmitter by Polar
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I bought this transmitter because I did not know that the Polar Heart Rate Monitors came with a transmitter included in the box. I could not find anything that specified this, so I ended up purchasing an extra transmitter.
That being said, this transmitter is super comfortable. The rubber model that comes with the heart rate monitors does not have any comfort issues over this one. The electrodes are sewn inside the fabric of the strap, and they are soft. The only hard piece on this is the plastic transmitter part that is not that big in the front. If you are doing something that involves a lot of body motion, like aerobics, tennis, dance or lifting weights, this fabric model is a better alternative to the rubber model. This fabric strap transmitter might also be a better option for women, who may already be dealing with an underwire bra at the gym.
As far as functionality goes, you won't really need a coded transmitter unless you are using the HRM in a crowded environment where EVERYONE is using monitors. Like at my gym, where the personal trainers sell the Polar brand of HRMs, hold weekly training classes about them, and encourage everyone to buy them. If you don't find yourself in this type of environment, but you find the regular transmitter to be uncomfortable, than this is for you. If the regular transmitter does not hurt you, then you don't really need this.
One problem with this transmitter is the clip mechanism that you use to snap it shut. The little plastic points that clip in look like something I am going to break in about a month. Everytime I snap it open or closed I feel like I'm breaking it.


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114248 Features: Fasten the simple sideclip and forget that you're wearing the soft, clothing-like material while the ergonomic design makes it feel almost natural Work out hard and don't worry about it to the removable textile strap is machine washable Specifications:

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Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Polar FT60 Women's Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Purple) Review

Polar FT60 Women's Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Purple)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
It took me a week of reading to decide which HRM watch to try. After a few days I narrowed the brand down to Polar, but then there're about 30 models from them to choose from.
My intended use: I don't run outdoors much so I don't need a GPS. I do cardio and weights in a home gym and have been writing everything down to keep track of progress, weight loss, etc.
I wasn't sure if I would use the extra bells and whistles beyond a Polar F6 but I was intrigued with the higher end models' ability to test your resting fitness, plan a workout régime, monitor your progress, record weight loss, revise the plan and repeat while recording this all to the web.
So, I narrowed it down to the F55, the FT60 and the FT80. Well, the FT80 is getting horrible reviews due to dark screen, unreliable software, and other basic `version 1' problems. The F55 seemed perfect for someone who lifts weights in their workout routine as I do so I researched further in that direction. The problem is that it only has 17 types of lifting sequences (e.g. Curl, Squat, etc.) and I agree with other reviewers that with those few, I probably wouldn't be able to take advantage of that feature (e.g. when I do a bicep workout I do about eight different types of lifting to prevent muscle memory. And, I really didn't like the way the F55 looks. A minor point but if you're spending $200 on something you wear, you at least want it to look good.
Then I started reading about the FT60 but there are very few reviews from actual users, and I always read reviews before I purchase anything these days. But it looked like it would give me what I wanted, and I like the looks much more than the F55. So I got it yesterday and used it for the first time today. I have a 42 inch chest and the band fits fine (some reviewers were saying some of these bands don't fit larger chests). In about 5 minutes I was able to enter my demographics, test my resting fitness, set a goal (maximum fitness) and begin a workout.
The screen is very easy to read, easy to change the readout while working out, and really made a difference in my ability to stay in a good cardio zone. The watch creates three zones for you (60-70%, 70-80%, 80-90% of Max Heart Rate) based on your fitness test, demographics, etc. Then it tells you how many hours per week you need to be in each of those zone to achieve your goal (maximum fitness, improve fitness or weight loss). These are all graphed on the watch so you can see where you stand for that workout or for the week. It's a great idea and really keeps you motivated to achieve your goal.Also, if you're interested in tracking weight loss, the watch asks you weekly to enter your weight and it tracks that for you graphically as well. It also takes the weight change into account when planning your next week's workout goals.
I haven't synced it up to the web (still waiting for my usb/irda dongle) so I can't comment about the site, but I wonder if it's really needed because the watch is pretty easy to use to review your workout history. That said, I'd still like to have it on the web for historical analysis.
Bottomline, if you're new to HRMs like me and are not sure if you need all these features (the F6 is about $150 cheaper!) I would take a serious look at this watch. And, if you are in the same boat as me (cardio, weights, variable routines that change so I don't get bored) I think this watch is the best way to go.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Polar FT60 Women's Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Purple)

The smartest way to better fitness, the Polar FT60 women's heart rate monitor watch helps you stay motivated and improve your conditioning. The FT60 works by first checking your daily condition, and then guiding you to the ideal training intensity for your age and fitness level. Knowing your heart rate not only helps you reach your personal fitness goal, but also improves your physical condition in general, as it's vitally important to train at the appropriate intensity level. If you exercise too hard, you may quit before you reach the real benefit, but if you work out too leisurely, you'll struggle to lose weight at all. The FT60 helps overcome these problems by encouraging you to map out a complete fitness routine.
The FT60 is packed with innovative training features to help you toward your exercise goals. First off, the watch includes a Polar Star personalized training program that adapts to your workout habits. By giving you weekly training targets and providing constant feedback, the watch guides you without being too strict, helping you reach your goals more efficiently. The watch also displays heart rate info in several ways, including as a percentage of your maximum heart rate, as beats per minute, and within a graphical target zone indicator. And should your heart rate exceed or dip below your target zone, the FT60 will sound an alarm that helps you return to form.
Users will also love the variety of proprietary Polar functions, including ZonePointer, Polar OwnZone, and Polar OwnCal modes. The ZonePointer is an audible and visual feature on the display of your FT60 that shows you where your current heart rate sits within your target heart rate zone. The Polar OwnZone mode, meanwhile, provides a customized target zone for individual exercise sessions. Finally, the Polar OwnCal mode shows your energy expenditure during one exercise session, as well as your accumulated kilocalories during several exercise sessions. You can also set daily and weekly exercise goals in terms of calorie expenditure, helping you achieve both short-term and long-term goals.
Other features include support for the G1 GPS sensor (sold separately); a built-in fitness test that measures your aerobic fitness at rest in just five minutes; a ZoneLock mode that lets you activate a target zone in the midst of training with the press of a button; an OwnCode mode that prevents crosstalk from other heart rate monitors nearby; a recording mode that tracks your average and maximum heart rate, calorie expenditure, distance, and total exercise time, and then puts it in an exercise file (with 100 total files); water resistance to 30 meters; a 12/24-hour clock with a day/week indicator; a built-in backlight; an alarm with a snooze; a low battery indicator; and a Polar FlowLink connection for transferring data between the FT60 and a computer. Sporting an attractive purple housing, the watch carries a two-year warranty.
Manufacturer's Warranty The original purchaser of this heart rate monitor is backed by a limited warranty that states that this product that the product will be free from defects in material or workmanship for two years from the date of purchase.
About Polar The first EKG accurate wireless heart rate monitor was invented by Polar back in 1977 as a training tool for the Finnish National Cross Country Ski Team. The concept of "intensity training" by heart rate swept the athletic world in the eighties. By the 1990s, individuals were looking to heart rate monitors not only for performance training needs, but also for achieving everyday fitness goals. Today, the same concept of heart rate training is being used by world-class athletes as well as everyday people trying to lose weight. Polar is the leading brand among consumers, coaches, and personal trainers worldwide and the company is committed to not only producing the best products, but also being the leading educator on the benefits of heart rate based exercise.


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