I have never used a HRM before and have always trained by feel. However, I would like to try a HRM and need a starting place. I don’t need it for running speed and distance, as I use a Forerunner 201. I would like to use it for cycling and occasional running. Swimming is a possibility, but I suck so bad my HR is likely not an issue.
I am looking at the the Polar S520 or the Polar S720i. Are these models too much for a novice HRM person? Should I start with something basic? I am even thinking about waiting for the new Garmin product - the Edge 305 I think?
If I go with the Polar S720i, I can use the Polar Power System. Is this a cheaper Powermeter?
I just got an S520 and I love it. I’m not sure I’m dedicated enough to analyze the data and put it to use, but it’s cool to look at the HR vs. cadence vs. speed.
I think you’re betting off getting something you can grow with… the price point doesn’t vary that much unless you go REALLY basic.
Go with the 720. If for no other reason than the 520 uses SonicLink to download data - and also limits the total memory of the HRM.
The IR interface is 100% eaiser to use and the batteries last longer even with daily downloads.
Can you use power meter with 720 - yes
is it a cheaper powermeter - YES and tends not to be very inaccurate - I picked on up in the 50% bin at the performance bike outlet, I wouldn’t recommend anyone pay full price for one.
I was in the same boat as you about 3 months ago, never used an HRM and didn’t think I really wanted to. However, I picked up the S710i on Ebay for about $130 a couple of weeks ago. I really like it and even though it’s way more advanced than what I’m using it for right now, just using it for the basic stuff works really well too. Try looking on Ebay for a good deal.
In my opinion a HRM is a great training device if used properly and more than just a gadget to wear, upload some cool graphs, etc…(Although that’s what I love about them)
I would recommend trying out a lower level model (if Polar, perhaps the s150 for some cycling benefits) and see if it’s useful to you and benefiting your training. If you love it, sell you’re nearly new one on eBay or wherever and get something with more bells/whistles.
There are also many options without the Polar name you may want to look into.
Also, perhaps you get great satellite coverage in your area, but the Polar footpod doesn’t use GPS and gives better speed/distance results to many runners.
I’m looking into the s625x for it’s altimeter benefits. I just can’t believe Polar hasn’t come up with the T2 button!
I’d get the 720, you can make all the adjustments to the watch from your computer. I don’t do anything on mine except turn it on hit lap. I can’t even navigate the menus anymore without my computer (this is actually good).
altitude is nice to have, the power meter is too expensive.
I use the Polar 625. I like it. This is the third HRM I have used, and my favorite. The first one was a very basic HRM, and an off brand. I used it for about a year. It measured heart rate and kept track of the High, low and average. Then I got the Polar 210. This was much more advanced and reliable so I used it more often, even when I was looking to just simply monitor my heart rate, rather than relying how I felt that day.
Now I use the Polar 625. I wear it for practically every run and cycling session. It is even more reliable than the 210 and easier to use as far as downloading the data. My experience with these different HRM’s tells me that as you get to the more advanced HRM’s they tend to be better machines and easier to use. They also seem to be easier to customize to what you want to do. For instance, using cycling features, programming workouts, etc. I think that you will use the more advanced models more readily, simply for this reason. In my opinion, they are worth the money.
I have used both Polar and Sigma Sport. I prefer the Sigma as it is more consistent in picking up my heartrate. I don’t use any of the downloading features with the Polar, so I opted for the $39.95 Sigma.
The S720 and S520 have cycling functions, they work with the wireless speed and cadence sensors. You can turn the cycling functions off when you are just running with it.
Thanks for all the replies - - the 720 it is! It also seems advisable to stay away from the power system . . . and that’s OK as I need to conquer the HR stuff first. Also, I am kinda familiar with watts and such b/c of my CT.