The folks over at Polar recently sent me a few heart rate monitors to test out. I liked the
This heart rate monitor not only tracks your heart rate (either in percentage or beats per minute) and totals your calories burned, it keeps track of all your workouts. That's important because you can use the watch to set a fitness goal — lose weight, improve fitness, or maximize fitness. I chose the latter and my watch asks me to work out five hours and 35 minutes a week, and more weeks than not, I rise to the occasion. Yes — my heart rate monitor inspires me to work out.
There are a few more cool features, so read more.
Before you begin working with the FT60, the heart rate monitor gives you a fitness test that takes 5 minutes, and then tracks your progress as you take the test monthly. This HRM also has an EnergyPointer, which calculates the point where training turns from fat burning to fitness improvement, and in weekly summary you read on the watch, it tells you how well you have done in each target heart rate zone. Between the tracking and motivational elements, you do feel like you have a trainer on your wrist.
This watch is also compatible with the Polar G1 GPS ($140) unit. The GPS is a bit bulky and can chafe if you're not careful, but it is super cool to read your speed and distance on a heart rate monitor. This is a great feature for tempo runs and intervals. Plus you can run a new route each outing and know how far you have gone without having to map it on the computer. This is a great time saver.
This HRM also is also compatible with the Polar Flowlink ($55), which allows you to upload all your workout information and transfers data between the watch and PolarPersonalTrainer.com — a free site that allows you to track your workouts and progress, and gives you access to helpful training tips and tools. Unfortunately, this feature is not Mac compatible and being a Mac gal, I have yet to test it out.
Having used Polar heart rate monitors in the past, I feel they have definitely improved the user interface and the FT60 is easy to use. Shop for one here.
Check out the details and accessories by clicking on the photos below.
Paul Smith
Cultbeauty
Arizona
Fit, I am so glad that you reviewed this product!! I am looking at purchasing this watch or the Garmin 405. The two watches are designed for different purposes so its really hard to compare. Are you familiar with the Garmin 405 and if so, which watch do you prefer?
1I bought this about 3 weeks ago and love it. It replaced another Polar (F11?), and seems both more accurate and has a better interface. I'm addicted to working out with this thing -- it gives me a huge sense of accomplishment.
2I love this! I wish I had $239 to spend on a watch... Maybe I'll start saving...
3Man I really wish I could afford this. I need the motivation! I used to have one and I loved it, I felt like I was competing with it and it pushed me harder. But it broke and now I'm broke, but maybe one day.
4So wait, if you want it to work with GPS you have to wear something else? which would up the total to three things (chest sensor, GPS sensor, watch)???
No thanks! I'd rather GPS and watch be one thing (like the Garmin).
5So ... stupid question alert. When you're working out with a heart rate monitor, do you have to use the chest strap thing? Or can the watch work on its own?
6I'm no expert, but most require a chest strap (some have sports bras equipped with the strap, but then you'd have to keep wearing the same bra)
There may be some that just get a count from your wrist (not sure), but it won't be nearly as accurate.
7Buzzsugar, not a dumb question because I asked this too on the last Polar monitor review! According the Polar rep you wear a chest strap with the watch. They are apparently less bulky and cumbersome then previous ones! I've put this on my christmas wish list!
8Yes you wear a chest strap and a watch for the basic heart rate monitor. the GPS is an additional arm band.
9The FT60 along with all Polar heart rate monitors use a chest transmitter to measure heart rate. Reason being - this is the most accurate and consistent way to measure heart rate. Good news is the FT60 will come with the new Wearlink textile chest transmitter which is extremely comfortable. It’s like a “second skin” that most people never notice once they start exercising.
The Polar FA20 can serve as an alternative for those who don’t want to use a chest strap, because it’s an activity computer – not a heart rate monitor. The FA20 will still measure calorie burn, steps, distance and total active time with 24/7 measurement using an internal movement sensor.
-Chris @ Polar USA
10Does anyone know if this model is good for spinning? If not, any recommendations? Thanks!
11I just finished my first training session with the FT60 and I'm officially hooked!!
12I just bought this watch and is great for motivation. It has me wanting to meet the goal it has set for me and work harder. I do have to adjust the heart rate zones a bit but it gives me the flexibility to do so. I don't like things on my wrist so the Garmin was just too bulky. Also I like the fact I can wear the Polar 24/7 if I want to since you can change out the batteries and it is not rechargeable.
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