I've been running without a watch so far, just with an app on my phone. About 15 years ago I tried to get into running and used a Polar with HRM, which I really loved. And I got myself a cheap watch with HRM a couple of years ago to help me lose weight. My GP (also a sports doctor) ascertained the pulse range I should exercise in (actually he scared me witless, as the range was so low even walking at my usual pace was difficult. He gave me the impression I was going to drop dead pretty soon. However 6 months of walking did the trick). But now this running business is getting quite serious and I think I need a serious running watch. So I've just ordered a Garmin Forerunner 235.
And I need new running shoes next month. Expensive business this running.
Written by
JaySeeSkinny
Graduate10
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
(It can be scary when we check things out, can't it... I ran down to my Health centre for my Well-Woman check a few weeks back and my nurse,( who also runs) checked my pulse, I was so relieved when she said it was just fine!!!)
My runs are not as awesome as yours, but I can see the merits of a good piece of kit! And new shoes, well... essential
Shoes - Definitely essential! And the health scare ultimately triggered all this running business off. Now 2 1/2 stone lighter and 1,000 kms later I must admit I feel a lot better!
As do I! I simply find it hard to believe that I am 67 when I feel about 30..🙂!
Hubs has the fr235. The only thing we find is that the heart rate runs 20-30 beats faster than his actual rate per minute. It is well worth checking the watch against feeling/counting your pulse rate before you start and whilst out running. Otherwise he loves his watch.
It is difficult to take error into account. I have a FR220 with chest belt - and there seems to be no or almost no error while sitting at rest - but it is hard to determine if there is any error at high HR's. I have physical trouble trying to find my pulse rate by feel when my heart is going flat out I no longer use my HRM much now as I kind of know what all my different training paces are so I now mostly train by pace/feel. I did discover that the best use of a HRM is to keep your pace down while running alone. Conversational pace is good to do if you have somebody to converse with - so regarding possible error, go for an easy run with somebody for say 30 minutes and stick to a FULLY conversational pace as you run for the whole time. The average recorded HR of that period can then be used as your guide to hold a conversational pace when you are alone regardless of whether there is error or not
Great, great watch. Just remember that the HRM is not a medical device and should be used to compare HR day to day, not to give you an absolute reading.
I have a few annoyances with the Bluetooth link to my iPhone. Normally turning the BT off and on again on the watch fixes it.
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.
Garmin watch
Best watch
She thought she could so she did! HU 10k Spring 2023
