Bowflex GPS Tracking Heart Rate Monitor Review

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(More customer reviews)I've had this watch for over a month now, and have used it on over two dozen runs. I bought it (my first GPS watch) mainly because I was amazed at the bargain price for the functions offered. Look around and you can find this unit for $85 (shipping included). NO WAY you can get a Garmin for that. But do you get only what you pay for? Well, in this case, I feel that the unit gave me MORE for the money for what it offers, though it definitely has some limitations.
First, if you read the one-star review from the guy who thought this unit was too big, ignore it. If you want a small GPS watch, go for the Garmin 405 (which is about how many dollars you'll pay for it.) I run with a lot of people with Garmin 205 and 305, and they're EXACTLY as large. The watch isn't heavy though, and I run with it just fine, even in races.
When my running group goes out on the road, and we compare results after, the Bowflex is pretty much comparable with the Garmin models. There will be small differences (even between one Garmin and another), but nothing major. In that aspect, it is a true bargain.
I've also used the heart monitor a number of times, with no problems. It's a chest strap type (the only technology that currently seems to work accurately) about which I was a little wary, but found it doesn't bother me. I've got a hairy chest, and heard that chest carpet may block good contact, but that hasn't been true. If you wet the sensors with a dab of water to start, it picks the signal up just fine.
However, this unit does NOT do well in the woods. As a weekend trail runner, I've found that disappointing. I set mine to beep at me when my pace fell under 8 minute miles. Well, there I was plowing along at decent speed, what must have been 7:30s if not 7:20s, and the damn watch is beeping at me. I picked up my pace, to what must have been near 7:00, and it STILL kept beeping at me, flashing "speed up!" It is pretty annoying to be harassed by one's watch, when said watch is flat out wrong. I also ran the same course through the woods twice with this watch on (pace monitor off second time) and got wildly different distances. It seems the signal goes in and out under tree cover, and then the software tries to compensate by drawing straight lines between the known points. I've heard that Garmin does not have this problem so much, so if it's worth it to you to be accurate in all circumstances, decide if that extra $ is worth it to you.
The other problem I had with this watch was the sports tracking program it comes with on CD, which didn't work on either of the two computers where I tried to set it up (it sets up OK, I even downloaded workouts to it, but the next time I tried to open it, it wouldn't let me--on two different computers!) Frankly, that bodes ill for the technology, and I hope I don't eventually find similar issues in other aspects of the watch! However, for this particular problem, you can just download SportsTracks, which is a better program anyway.
Also, this watch is made in Taiwan and if you like your English scrambled in a wok, you'll love their instruction sheet. That said, figuring out how to work the watch was cake, with just a little trial and error. It's pretty well designed.
In sum, this is NOT the best GPS watch! If you've got the money, and the needs, go for something better. But if the money is a sticking point for you, I can attest that this is a fully functional GPS ROAD RUNNING watch. If you buy it knowing that, and for that use, I think you'll be plenty satisfied.


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Track and analyze your exercise and training routines with the multi-use Bowflex GPS 905 heart rate monitor watch. More sophisticated than most HR watches, the GPS 905 not only reads your heart rate, but it also includes dashboard views of your workouts showing your speed, altitude, and calories burned and then records the data for later analysis on your computer. As a result, the watch makes a great training companion for skiers, runners, and cyclists. The watch's GPS functionality also extends to backwoods trails, with a backtracking option that makes it easy to return to your starting location or waypoint. The internal memory can store up to 60,000 track points, 600 waypoints, and 100 laps. And, of course, the GPS 905 offers all the standard heart rate watch functionality, including target zone alarms, lap time calculations, and other training tools. Equipped with a USB port for PC and Internet connection, the GPS 905 will change the way you exercise outdoors.

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Ekho WM-25 Heart Rate Monitor Watch Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this monitor for my wife because I already own and use one. I looked at a bunch of monitors before making this purchase, but there's nothing out there that comes close to doing what this monitor does. The programming of the watch can be daunting, but you'll get through it. You are going to want to keep the manual for the monitor in a safe place so that you can refer to it later. The "WM" stands for "Weight Management". You program in your age, weight, and heart rate exercise range (see the manual). The monitor then tracks the amount of time you spend within, over, and under your heart beat range. It reports your maximum and average heart rate. Finally, it tells you how many calories you burned. You can also use the calorie tracking mechanism to track the relationship between how many calories you need to consume during the day with your daily activities to maintain or reach a weight. So, for example, if you determine that you are going to consume 2,000 calories per day (ask your doctor what they think this number should be) to maintain your present weight (or reach your goal weight) you can program that value into the monitor. Then you wear the monitor throughout your day. It will keep track of how many calories you burned that day. At the end of the day, let's say the monitor says you burned 1,500 calories during the day and you ate 2,000 calories worth of food. This means you either have to add activity to your day (walk another flight of stairs?) to get to 2,000 calories or you need to reduce your consumption of calories. A neat little tool for conducting weight experiments and to meet your personal goals. This is a great, all around heart rate monitor. It's well thought out, comfortable to wear, and it works.

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The WM in the WM-25 stands for weight management, telling you all you need to know about the Ekho WM-25 heart rate monitor watch. Unique to Ekho heart rate monitors, the unit's weight management feature lets you enter how many calories you want to burn during the day. Then, as you work, walk, exercise, and play, the watch tells you how many calories you've scorched on your way to your goal. It's a terrific way to keep fit, and it makes sure that you don't overlook your daily activities as important allies in your weight loss plans. Plus, it's designed to interface with the heart-rate-interactive equipment in most health clubs, adding even more versatility to the mix.
In addition to its weight loss functions, the WM-25 tracks your current, average, and maximum heart rate, while also offering a target alarm that lets you know whether you're working in, above, or below your target heart rate zone. As a result, you'll maximize your caloric burn and enjoy the most effective cardiovascular workout available. Other features include time and date functions, a stopwatch, an audible "alarm off" mode, and an ultra-slim ergonomic chest belt transmitter. The water-resistant WM-25 carries a five-year warranty.

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Polar S625X Heart Rate Monitor Watch Review

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(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?!! ;-)

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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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Polar FT4F Heart Rate Monitor Watch Review

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(More customer reviews)Hey folks, I just wanted to add a bit of information based on some comments I've read on other Polar devices: The FT4, based on my tests, IS water-resistant and should work great to help you track your stats as you swim laps. I'll update this once I've used it for a few more lap swims, but both the heart monitor you wear on your chest and the watch itself are sealed and won't immediately flood and ruin if you take it into the pool. Only thing is, you probably don't want to be pressing the buttons on the watch while you're under water, which may mean you have to stop and dry off if you want to take a break in the middle of your lap swim.
Update: I have now used my FT4 several times to track my lap swimming. It works great! Don't press the buttons while you're actually underwater, but I have had no trouble at all with the 'pause' or 'continue' functions at the end of the lap, even with wet fingers. Oh, and - you don't have to wet the chest band before you put it on if you're going to swim in it ;)
I have the same beef as others about the FT4 - you can't see all your workout stats at once while you work out - you have to press the bottom right-hand button to change the display to heart rate vs. calories vs. workout time or what have you, and you can't see your time while you're working out (you can once you're finished and you click STOP to end the workout session...at this point you also get your upper and average heart rates and your time in the zone. You can also hit 'Pause' to see your workout time.) Basically, this little gizmo does what it's designed to do. It does make a unique double-beep when you're in your heart rate zone, which I find helpful.
A couple other details: the FT4 has a user-serviceable battery (some other Polar models don't, which means you have to pay $$ and ship the device to Polar to change the battery.) The chest band is fabric, as opposed to the stiff plastic of other Polar models, also. You can buy software to download the information off your Polar, but the software is $80 and you need an infrared reader for your computer. I haven't really explored this, as I use the [...] website to track my info and I just copy it straight off the Polar without downloading.
My one complaint is the difference in calorie burn between the FT4, my Garmin Forerunner and my GoWearFit...who knows how many I'm actually burning...but I do have a little bit of a formula I can use to convert from one to the next...
Overall, I'd say this device is well worth the money, especially if you're just doing casual exercise without the need for a GPS or an all-day calorie tracker. I'll probably buy another one should the one I bought break or wear out.

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A heart rate monitor for those that want something quick, simple and to the point without the need for time consuming programming and calibration. Wear the watch, and attach the comfortable and flexible textile transmitter and the new Polar FT4 will do the rest.Improve your fitness levels - The Polar FT4 will indicate when you are improving on previous fitness levels, giving you that extra push.Polar OwnCalTransmitter - The transmitter clips on to a very comfortable textile strap and has enough flexibility to move with your body yet remain in place.Paired transmitter and watch - The watch and the transmitter are paired together to ensure that your watch doesn't pick up any other Polar FT4 signal when out training.Language Options - You are able to set the default language of the watch to any of the following: - German - English - Spanish - French - Italian - Suomi - Swedish - PortugueseIlluminated Display - Offering you extra visibility of the face to keep track of your trainingCustomise - Change between 12 and 24 hours clocks and metric and imperial units to give you greater controlBasic Features - Automatic age based target zone (% / bpm) - Automatic/Manual target zone (% / bpm / HRR%) - Backlight - Graphical target zone indicator - Heart rate (displayed as % of maximum heart rate) - Heart rate (displayed as bpm) - HeartTouchExercise Features - Average heart rate of total exercise - Exercise Date - Heart rate based target zones with audible alarm - Heart rate based target zones with visual alarm - Maximum heart rate of total exerciseRecording Features - Average heart rate - Calorie expenditure - Exercise Time (total) - Maximum heart rate - Target zone limits - Time in target zoneWatch Features - Alarm with snooze - Date and weekday indicator - Dual time zone - Low battery indicator - StopWatch - User replaceable batteryWhat's in the box? 1 - Polar FT4 Heart Rate Monitor Watch 1 - Heart rate monitor sensor 1 - Textile sensor body strap 1 -

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Impulse Sport 9 Heart Rate Monitor Review

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(More customer reviews)This is the 2nd heart rate monitor I've owned. The first one was a Polar which worked great but I lost the watch. So I got this one fir $69 and it works great. I wish I had bought it here for cheaper. Anyhow, the thing works, the straps aren't too bad, it's pretty standard and light. And in fact, the Impulse watch is also compatible with my Polar strap, so in case one breaks, I've got a backup I guess. I'm happy with it.

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Stylish heart rate monitor featuring dot-matrix type display. Ideal for general fitness training.Heart rate Time of day Calendar Daily alarm Single heart zone setting Hi & lo heart zone alarm 10 hour stopwatch 10 hour single and repeat countdown timer Scan showing maximum, average and minimum heart rate LIGHTWEIGHT TRANSMITTER BELT INCLUDEDSHIPPING WEIGHT: 1 Lb

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Timex T5J031 Unisex Digital Fitness Heart Rate Monitor Watch Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this watch to replace an older Polar heart rate monitor with dead batteries in the chest strap and the monitor. The design of that product required me to send both units in for replacement by a Polar service center. The cost was nearly as much as the cost of this timex heart rate monitor.
I am so pleased with this product. The instructon manual was clearly written and easy to understand. There are just enough functions for me without loading the product up with things I will never use. That makes using it simple and I can remember how to use it without having to refresh my memory by repeatedly rereading the manual.
The monitor is an excellent watch when not using the heart rate features. Best of all I can change the batteries myself when the time comes without sending the thing off in the mail to a service center.
On top of all that the price was reasonable. This is one of those few purchases that exceeded my expectations because everything that it does, it does a little bit better than I had hoped for.

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Combining stylish looks with power sport timing and heart rate monitoring features, this mid-sized Timex Digital Fitness watch (model T5J031) can be worn by both men and women. It features a chest strap heart rate monitor, easily accessible function buttons, durable resin case, and comfortable resin strap with a stylish tapered profile. For integrating heart rate monitoring into your training, this watch enables you to track your avareage heart rate and pre-set target heart rate zones with data for time spent within that zone and alarms. It can also display data for calories burned and offers a recovery timer that measures your heart rate after a timed recovery during or after your workout. Sport timing features include:
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

The Indiglo night-light uniformly lights the surface of the watch dial using patented blue electroluminescent lighting technology. It uses less battery power than most other watch illumination systems, enabling your watch battery to last longer. The Night Mode feature allows you to illuminate the Indiglo night-light for 3 seconds with any button press, regardless of the mode or function. The watch is water resistant to 50 meters (165 feet)--suitable for swimming but not for diving. All Timex heart rate monitor sensors have batteries that can be replaced by consumers without requiring them to be returned to the manufacturer.

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ProForm Trainer-Strapless Heart Rate Monitor Review

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(More customer reviews)This product was not functioning when I received it in the mail. I called the company and was told that I should just replace the battery. I took it to a watch repair shop and was told that the battery was not the problem-- the watch was broken.
I am now awaiting a response from Pro Form because I want to exchange it for another. I'll update if they are helpful, but at this point I am wishing I'd purchased another brand, and bought it in person so that I could see that I wasn't getting stuck with a broken watch!

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The ProForm Trainer Strapless Heart Rate Monitor features on demand strapless heart rate. No chest strap required for accurate ECG heart rate. Extra large display for easy viewing of Time of day and Heart Rate.

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Ekho WM-108 Heart Rate Monitor Watch Review

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(More customer reviews)This watch is supposedly water resistant, but mine developed fog on the inside of the glass while doing moderately strenuous home improvement tasks immediately after purchase. Whenever I exerted myself, the fog would build up, and not dissipate for a day or so, depending on conditions. Two days ago, the wrist strap broke while shaking water off my hands. I have owned this watch just over 1 year and 2 months. I had hoped that the 5-year warranty would indicate a better-than-average build quality, but this is without a doubt the most poorly constructed watch I have owned, inferior to the the cheap $15 jobs I wore in high school and early college.

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Develop a more effective weight management or training program with the Ekho WM-108 heart rate monitor watch. The WM-108 not only reads your current heart rate, but also offers a target zone alarm lets you know whether you're working in, above, or below your target heart rate zone. As a result, you'll maximize your caloric burn and enjoy an efficient cardiovascular workout. Even better, the watch interfaces with the heart-rate-interactive equipment in most health clubs, helping you reach whole new levels of efficiency. Other features include time (12- and 24-hour) and date (day/month/year) functions, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, a 15-lap counter, a warmup timer, a recovery timer, and a daily alarm. The ECG-accurate WM-108--which comes with an ultra-slim ergonomic chest belt transmitter--carries a five-year warranty.p

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Bowflex Fit Trainer 10M Strapless Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)As far as its role as a watch, this bowflew product gets the job done, unlike other strapless-heart-rate-monitor watches, this one actually looks like a normal digital watch, I don't know about you, but I want a strapless one because I want to wear it in PUBLIC without a strap around my chest, and since I am in public, I don't want everyone who passes by to say, what kind of watch is THAT? Thus leading to an unwanted 2 minute conversation.
Now then, the watch aspect features everything you need, a backround light, day of the week, month/day, time, alarm, stopwatch(called a chronograph), a countdown timer(which beeps every second for the last 5 seconds and then 3 times at zero and then for another 10 seconds) and of course your heart rate.
There are numerous features that resolve around the heart rate function, which you can display by holding down the bottom center silver button for 5 seconds(the sensor is where a battery is on a normal watch, up against the wrist). You can set a heart rate zone, which is down automatically for you based off your gender and age, though you can manually set your own. This is EXTREMELY useful, if say, you want to get into that "fat burning zone" which for me is about 130bpm, you can set the bottom and top bars for what ever beats you want, if you are in the "zone" your HR will appear along with one beep(though you must manually take your HR by holding down the button for 5 secs), if your higher or lower than the "zone" it will beep twice and then show your HR with either a H or a L accordingly.
A nice little feature is that along with your HR it will show your relative HR, which is to say, the percentage that you are pushing yourself, so when an exercise says "go 80%" for such and such time, you can now actually SEE what HR is that percentage, based on your age ex. My "maximum" (safe, anyway) HR is 200bpm, so if my HR while say, walking is 100bpm, the display will show "100bpm 50%" to indicate my relative HR. Very useful.
This brings me to the last feature of this watch, the calorie counter. Based on your current HR(The manual says to take it just prior to using this) (sidenote: manual is very simple, yet detailed and very helpful) this timer will show, other than a timer, the amount of calories you have burned based on your HR, haven't used it much, but it could prove very handy in the future.
Now for the bad stuff, there is one more useless feature I forgot to mention, the dual time function, basically, you can set any time you want, besides the "actual" time, maybe for time zones or something, but you can change mins and secs too, I don't know, seems pointless to me, whatever. My only other gripe is that I am not 100% confident in the accuracy of the monitor. It could just be that because of its short monitoring interval(5 secs) it is overly-sensitive, for example, while sitting here, my HR is 64bpm, but if I stand up its 84, even though I didn't really do anything, same thing if your just sitting somewhere and breathing(unlikely right? :D ) your HR picks up a bit on the inhale and drops on the exhale, these "inaccuracies" disappear however, during exercise, since the heart is beating faster, thus greatly lessening the affects of say, standing up and breathing.(and don't wear it too tight, this can make your bpm higher than it really is, inversly for too loose)
For those of you who decided to skip my overly detailed review(hey, I was the first one, after all) and just want a blunt answer, yes, this thing is great, yes I highly reccomend it and yes, you should get one(hopefully in a different color, so I don't run into people with the same watch as me ;) )

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This Bowflex strapless heart rate monitor offers heart rate without having to use a chest belt by touching the sensor buttons on the watch. Accurate heart rate anytime.

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Bowflex Fit Trainer Plus Heart Rate Monitor and Pedometer Watch (Small) Review

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(More customer reviews)I am writing a review because I couldn't find one anywhere to help me make a decision. For that reason, I bought mine on another site (www.isokineticsinc.com) because they have a more generous return policy in addition to the free shipping. I am very pleased that the watch is reasonably priced, small, doesn't require a strap, offers so many features (especially the hi/ lo target zones), and was so easy to program, read and use! Can be used to 30m. so I don't mind getting it sweaty or wet. Comes with one year warranty. I just wish it came in more colors, or at least black.

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The Bowflex Fit Trainer Plus offers Strapless Heart Rate Technology with Pedometer functions of Steps, Distance, Speed and Calories. This is a very unique heart rate monitor that offers heart rate, steps and distance at a touch of a button. Large display for easy viewing.

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Polar FT7F Heart Rate Monitor 1 ea Review

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(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.


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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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Suunto M5 Men's Heart Rate Monitor and Fitness Training Watch (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I ordered the black model M5 and was very pleased with the watch except that I found the negative display ( white numbers on black background ) to be very difficult to see at dusk or in any low light conditions. It is not nearly as bright as the product photos show except at high noon sun. If you exercise mostly during full sun, it's very readable, in fact probably less glare than the white face. Consider your exercise venue before you order. Could be my eyes, but after searching other forums on negative faces, I'm not alone. I wound up exchanging the black face for 2 white face women's M5s. I was concerned about the women's band on my wrist, but it still fit with a hole or 2 to spare. Trinow fitness was very helpful and I got them next day. The watch bodies are the same, so if I really decide I want the man's band, I'll order one, but don't see the need right now.
If you're looking for a training aid to get you on track, this is it. I ordered the foot pod and bike pod and they both connected flawlessly and are pretty accurate when checked on a known distance. The chest strap is the most comfortable I have tried and it also links up quickly. We've been using them for about 3 weeks and so far I'm still very satisfied. We were hit or miss with our exercise routine, but the M5 takes the guesswork out and keeps you on track. You really need to maintain your heart rate at a training level for the correct amount of time to get a full workout, and the M5 has helped us do that. A big plus is all the devices use a user-replacable, common watch battery. Remember that Suunto is currenlty offering a free Movestick interface with the M5 & M4, so if you buy, log on to their site and print out the rebate form. Waiting on delivery of ours as of today 8/16/10. It allows you to upload and store your training logs. I'll post a followup review in about a month.
UPDATE 1/28/11
I had to downgrade my review mainly because the software ( Movescount ) is pretty dismal when used with the M5. It's mostly a social networking tool that misses even simple tools like plotting your current fitness position versus your goals. If you want to help Suunto design a Beta quality attempt at fitness software , you'll love it. Not very intuitive.
Some points I have learned:
1. The foot POD and bike POD are fixed in their calibration with the M5. It's close, but if you're expecting a cycle computer , you're out of luck.
2. The chest strap is the most comfortable I've worn and stays wirelessly connected to the watch pretty well.
3. If you should happen to fall off your excercise plan over a certain # of days, the watch will keep repeating the same day. Suunto's way to fix it, reprogram it to a lower level and the restart at the bottom of the level you were at.
4. If you really need athlete quality reporting. This watch is not for you. It's also not $500.
5. Still like the watch. It will keep you on track. For someone trying to get in cardio shape, it's a good tool.
6. I paid $189 for mine. The price today is an indication that it's not exactly flying off the shelves. I would wager you will see this watch settle in at about $125 or a little less.
7. The PC POD does connect flawlessly and tranfers data with no problem.
8. The standard watch battery is a good idea and battery life has been very good.
9. So.....Buy the watch and enjoy it, it has surely helped improve my cardio fitness. At present, don't bother with the PC POD unless you like social networking more than fitness tracking.


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The Suunto M5 provides versitile guidance for multi-sport exercise. Set your fitness goals with the easy-to-use interface and the M5 provides an ideal daily workout schedule to help you achieve them - including telling you when it's time to rest. Choose from improving your fitness, weight management or free training, and the Suunto M5 automatically prescribes an exercise program with ideal intensity and duration for the next 7 days. The Suunto M5 measures heart rate in context of your fitness level and provides motivational feedback and guidance in real time. The included Suunto Dual Comfort Belt is compatible with most gym cardio equipment. Exercise data captured by the M5 can be quickly and wirelessly uploaded to MovesCount.com for tracking, analysis and sharing, and custom training programs can be downloaded to the M5 (requires optional Suunto Movestick). Add speed and distance data to your logs with the optional Suunto PODs (Peripheral Observation Devices), sold separately.

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Polar FS2 Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Black) Review

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.

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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.

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Sportline Solo 925W Women's Heart Rate Monitor Watch Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I know my review is totally different than the first one. I'm sorry the previous reviewer had such a bad time with the watch. I got mine direct from SportLine as a replacement for a model 910 that went bad early. I've only had this one about six months so I hope I don't have issues with it. If I do, I'll update this review.
But so far, I love the watch. It keeps good time. It's pretty easy to set and has lots of features. I wish it had more than one alarm but I don't wear this as my main watch. I'm not sure the alarm even works as I set it but have never heard it. The instructions are not great so I'm not sure I have it armed. I'm sure a call to the company would give me the answer.
I can't tell you how accurate the calorie mode is. I'm not sure how it figures calories used but it could be by the minute or heartbeat or both. It differs a good deal from my Omron pedometer. I'm not sure anything can be too accurate in counting calories expended but I think it's reasonably accurate and, most important of all, it motivates you to go that extra step or two or whatever you're up to.
The watch is easy to use. I didn't have a problem with the light on mine. I turn it on and it stays on only a few seconds and goes off.
I should also add that support at the company is just great and they go the extra mile for their customers. If your watch goes bad, no matter where you bought it, they'll replace it quickly. At least they did mine. That's much more than most companies do.
Update: The calorie expenditure on the watch the second day was about half what it was the previous day for the same amount of time. I'm not sure if there was a basis for this or if this is a problem with the watch. Also an update on the alarm --- it does work. But I see no way to set it to AM or PM. The same with the date.
Highly recommended.
-Susanna K. Hutcheson

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Easily measure your intensity level whether standing still or running in full stride with the Solo 925W women's heart rate watch. Boasting Sportline's patented One- Touch technology, the watch responds to a single touch of the finger to deliver accurate EKG heart rate readings, so you can stay focused on your next lap, rep, or whatever else lies ahead. The Solo 925W also calculates your target heart rate zone and counts your calories burned, helping you design the optimum workout. And best of all, the Solo 925W doesn't require an uncomfortable chest belt, nor do you have to stand still to measure your pulse. Easy to use, accurate, and responsive, the Solo 925W lets you cruise at your own speed with no strings (or anything else) attached. Other details include 12- and 24-hour time settings, a large digital backlit display, a three-beat speed sensor, a countdown timer, and an out-of-zone alarm. The Solo 925W is also backed by a one- year warranty.

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Polar FT80 Heart Rate Monitor Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Sadly I must report quite a bit of disappointment with this product:
1) The screen is so poorly contrasted it's nearly impossible to read except in the best of light and the backlight only makes it tolerable -- and only for 5 seconds in a row.
2) I've unfortunately fallen victim to a problem that has affected hundreds of people as represented on the Polar forums -- the inability (over time, randomly) to synch to the web service. This bug is a software/synch. issue between the watch, windows software and the web service. It prevents the upload of your training results and if you're using the STAR program means you don't get the adaptive training routine downloaded to your watch. Further, it means you don't have access to the snazzy zone/interval graphs.
3) The feature set is misleading as it comes to being able to use certain functions; the realtime graph and rest interval display is really only available in the strength training routines and not for general aerobic activity as defined by the training program you choose on the web service.
4) There's no basic interval timer.
5) The buttons are difficult to operate and the bottom button requires more force than the top to push.
If you're a runner or cyclist, this is probably a fine watch, but the FT60 looks like a much better unit that you can actually *see*
Some of these might seem like minor issues, but I am basically left with a watch that does less than my $80 Mio Drive watch that doesn't require a chest strap for the pulse reading.
I'm very disappointed with this purchase.
Be very, very sure what sort of activity you wish to monitor for this price...and the screen absolutely sucks.
I can't see how this would be released as a saleable product. That picture to the right is NOT an accurate representation of the display...

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You don't want a clunky, awkward-looking heart rate monitor, and you also don't want to do the same darn workout every day. Feast your eyes (and your cross-training soul) on the Polar FT 80 Heart Rate Monitor. Polar made this fitness watch with sleek, eye-pleasing style. This monitor also helps with your running, weight-lifting, and cross-training workouts. The FT 80 gives feedback on how long to rest between your lifting sets, shows calories burned, and provides an alarm to let you know when you're above or below your target zones. Store up to 100 exercise files, and use the included Polar FlowLink to connect to the polar personal trainer site for workout reviews and suggestions.Product Features
Housing Material: plastic
Altimeter: no
Altimeter Max Height:
Route Elevation Profile:
Barometer: no
Heart Rate Monitor: yes
Target Heart Rate Zone:
Training Program:
Fitness Test:
Chronograph: yes, stop watch
Odometer:
Thermometer: no
Digital Compass: no
Declination Type:
Adjustable Declination: no
Low Battery Indicator: yes
Computer Compatible: , included Polar FlowLink
Water-Resistant: yes, up to 50m
Backlight: yes
Alarms: 1 time with snooze, HR-based target zone audible and visual alarm
Alarm Type:
Battery Type: user replaceable
Battery Life:
Face Size: medium
Strap Material: rubber
Date Indicator:
Weekday Indicator:
Weight:
Recommended Use: training, cross-training, running, weight lifting, cardio
Manufacturer Warranty: 2 years

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FT40 Heartrate Monitor by Polar Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This heart rate monitor is definitely worth the extra over the cheaper versions. My husband has the Polar F6 and we both agree that this is worth the extra $50. It's has enhanced my running and strength training more that I thought it would. The alarms are very useful, and I love the fitness test and that it tracks my training. The chest strap is high quality and comfortable, and the wrist unit is also comfortable and attractive. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that the green band looks a little cheaper in person than it does in the picture. The design isn't as evident as I expected. Otherwise it is perfect for my training. I love it!

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114798 Features: Monitor calories used with the Polar OwnCal feature and fat burn with the EnergyPointer calculator while the built-in fitness test assesses your aerobic fitness at rest to a graphical target zone indicator helps you keep up the pace View your heart rate as the percent of your maximum heart rate or as beats per minute (BPM) with the wireless ECG accurate heart rate Establish your manual target zone which is calculated from your BPM's upper limit to you get an audible and visual alarm when you reach a target zone Keep track of your progress with up to 50 exercise files to monitor records exercise date, HR-based target zones (you know when you reach them thanks to audible and visual alarms), average heart rate, calorie expenditure, exercise time, and maximum heart rate Monitor your heart with the WearLink 31 coded transmitter Along with exercise-ready functions, you get an alarm clock with a snooze feature, date, and weekday indicator, dual time zone monitor, and a low battery indicator Make this watch work for you anywhere with a backlit face, water-resistance to 30 meters, and volume setting Specifications: Waterproof: water-resistant to 30 meters

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Ekho E-10 Heart Rate Monitor Watch Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I found an article by prevention naming the top 10 heart monitors based on their reviewers. This heart rate monitor was on the list. It has not let me down. First off it is very comfortable, it does not slip on me, the read out is big and at quick glance I know how I'm doing. I don't wear the watch for every day wear as it is bigger than I am used to, but I think that this heart rate monitor is extremely comfortable compared to some.
If you are unfamiliar with heart rate monitors, there is a band that goes about your chest, you will need to wet the back of the sensor when you first put it on in order to get a reading, the chest strap transmits to your corresponding wrist watch what your heart rate is at so that you work out in your optimal range for an effective workout.
I picked one up because I had hit a plateau in weightloss, which I was okay with, but I wanted to know if this was the size I was meant to be, or if I needed to ramp up my workouts or if my workouts were simply no longer getting my heart rate up. There are only so many times you are willing to stop and check your heart rate with your fingers before you say, that's annoying, I'd like to do my workout and think about it less. Now that I have become a beginning runner, this is very nice, I stay in my target zone, and I can sustain a really decent pace.

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The Ekho E-10 heart rate monitor watch makes it easy and affordable to listen to your heart rate, letting you focus on your workouts instead. The ECG-accurate E-10 reads your current heart rate via the ultra-slim, ergonomic chest belt transmitter. As a result, you'll maximize your caloric burn while running, walking, or rehabilitating. Even better, the E-10 interfaces with the heart-rate-interactive equipment in most health clubs, helping you reach whole new levels of efficiency. Other features include time and date functions, a bike mount, and a water-resistant housing. The E-10 carries a five-year warranty.

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