I barely notice the rubber strap around my chest. I do noticewhen my trainer pours ice water down my shirt - it simulates sweat to activate my heart monitor. I'm testing two components of Polar's Heart Rate Monitor.
Not all workouts are created equal. There's an optimum range when it comes to cardiovascular exercise, and this monitor tells me if I'm in "the zone" - that is, working at maximum capacity.
After a grueling 40 minutes on the bike, I download the data to a computer. With a few commands, we've got my heart rate on the screen, sampled every five seconds. I can store my files and superimpose one over another to chart the same workout and see if I've lowered my heart rate. You can even program in your desired high and low heart rates, and the wristwatch receiver will beep if you go above or below.
Polar can help adjust your workout, but I don't advise pouring ice water down your bare chest - that's a shock to the heart.
Polar Vantage Night Vision Heart Rate Monitor: US$399. Computer interface and software: $389. Polar: (800) 227 1314, +1 (516) 484 2400
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