Which heart rate monitor?

Question

I am a cross country runner and i am looking to by a new watch for keeping my times etc. Is it worth getting a heart rate monitor and pedometer built in? What are some good brands and models? I am willing to spend quite a bit.

Answer 1

Garmin Forerunner 405 is the newest HR / GPS monitor out there.  Price $349 with Heart Rate monitor.  Thls one has all the bells and whistle.

Features:  wireless download - records all your runs

                   Heart rate monitor

                   GPS - never get lost again!  Great for trails

                   - fastest and most accurate on the market

                   Calories burned

                   Records mileage

                   Virtual running partner

                   Can be used for Triathletes training

                   Looks like a sports watch/smaller than previous

Here is a link that can better describe the amazing watch:

http://www8.garmin.com/ces/forerunner/in...

this link has the top 4 sports HR watches with garmin 305 (predecessor):

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,71...

I am going to get this watch....

Answer 2

If you do not train by heart rate - which most high school program don't, then don't buy a HRM. Most good HRM need the chest strap, so that would be some extra. I would just get a nice watch with split and as long as you know the course you are running, you can log the miles without a pedometer. Running is supposed to be simple. Invest the extra money on a good pair of shoe instead.

Answer 3

i have the forerunner 301 by garmin, they are about $150. it is a nice unit with a heart rate monitor that works very nicely. since you run cross, if you get in heavy woods, you may lose your satelite signal. i ran a trail marathon earlier this year and it lost the signal several times. once i got in the open it picked it up again. and it often takes 1-2 minutes to get a signal before you can start running. i also use it for biking, and it can be used for for cross country skiing, hiking, atv, etc. all in all it works pretty nicely. i used it in my first half ironman triathlon last sunday and it worked very well. good luck hope it helps