heart rate monitors....talk to me

badly_dubbed

ok so having never used a HRM id like to know a bit more about them...

1. what can they be used for? - dont state the obvious and say for monitoring HR.

2. i see alot of posts going on about 80% -90% max HR how do i work stuff like this out?

3. whats a good HRM to consider buying for a total HRM novice?

4. how the hell do i use it when and if i were to get one.... i.e i dont wanna just go "oh yea my HR is XX' and thatll be it...

5. what are the benefits of owning one?

any info i appreciated guys thanks!

springtide9

a quick google got me this....
http://www.cptips.com/hrmntr.htm

it will give you an idea why HR monitors are useful. haven't read the article in full, so it's not a recommendation.

I personally like the Garmin Forerunner 3xx series, but mostly because they are a little bit bigger for the bike, but not to big for wearing on the arm (when running)

Something like a 305 with a bike mount. Have the 310XT and like it a lot (mainly as it's fully waterproof and has the extra battery life over the 305)

daveydave43

Heart rate allows to you train to specific zones, or intensities.
for example, if you have a goal in base training of keeping below 60% max hr for the majority of your ride.

you'll need to measure your max hr either professionally, using a RAMP test, or the DIY way, going as fast as you can up a steep hill until you cant do any more; this needs to be absolute maximum effort.

the hr monitor i use is a Polar CS200 with cadence. £87 from dolphin fitness:
http://www.dolphinfitness.co.uk/en/polar-cs200cad/12951