While the different manufacturers and models of running watches would mean that each one of them would have unique features, there are some things that are consistent in a running watch. These are the features that should always be great in any model so that it would become a good running watch for you.

Here is a list of those features that you should look for in a running watch to determine if it would help you:

Connection to GPS

A GPS powered running watch would definitely help you in your training. This is because the GPS system would help you accurately track data such as your location, pace, and total distance covered.

The power of a GPS powered running watch is truly capable of providing you with the highly accurate data that you would need if you are serious in your running training.

Large and Legible Display:

It could be hard to focus on your training if you would not be able to read the data on your running watch. Having jumbled data, or very confusing data fields would be frustrating for you to see while running.

Related to this, you should also check whether the running watch display can still show you good data at night or at bright light. You may want to invest in a watch that has a backlit display such as those termed as Indiglo.

Computer Connectivity:

Having a running watch that has good computer connectivity would definitely help you in your training. A whole host of options becomes available for you if you are given the capability to download or upload your training data.

You can get professional advice from various runners, or run training analyzing software for you to know which aspects of your training would still require improvement.

Toughness:

Running training could lead you to situations where nature can be difficult to work with. Rain, sleet, snow, or even extreme heat can be your enemies. That’s why you should check if the running watch is able to withstand harsh environments.

Things to check for could be water resistance, as well as how tough the construction of the watch and its straps are. You don’t want your watch to break down right in the middle of your training!

The ones listed are just some of the basic factors and features that you should take into consideration when purchasing a running watch. Being able to find a watch that can satisfy all of them would truly help in ensuring that you would have a good partner as you work out.

Related posts:

1. Personalizing Your GPS Running Watch
2. Running Watch Favorites
3. Features to consider in a Running Watch

However, training has become more advanced than ever.  Thanks to scientific methods and technological innovations, people have now found new ways of acquiring data and analyzing them to help in improving training.

It seems now that in order to be able to improve your lap times, and  increase your training intensity, you would also need to have the cutting edge equipment. These highly advanced equipment would help in making your exercise more efficient, streamlined and give you better results.

When it comes to training equipment, the first one that comes to mind are running watches. Most runners would take them while they are plying their routes. Before, running watches only gave you your time, and how fast you were able to go from point A to point B. These days seem to be over though, as running watches now have become more advanced and more hi-tech.

Running watches nowadays, aside from providing you with basic time keeping functions are now packed with more features. The Garmin Forerunner 405 for example, not only allows for measuring your time but gives you the capability to study your training pace, your speed and cadence, or even your heart rate when you use it.

These features make calculating your training data that much easier.  It allows runners with a Garmin Forerunner 405 to acquire data that were previously highly difficult to attain. They get all these numbers with just a device that is strapped to their wrists.

A good running watch like the Garmin Forerunner 305, would also help people who like to cross train. Watches like the Forerunner 305 have built in sport profiles to make sure that you could train accordingly even if you are just strolling, running, or even biking. This is further supported by the wide range of available accessories that the Garmin 305 is compatible with.

Another way that training has truly advanced is through the help of computer software that automatically calculates the resulting data from your training. Before, after acquiring the data, the coaches and trainers would have to manually track and chart these in order to form a good analysis from it. The advent of computer software, and high compatibility.

Related posts:

1. Personalizing Your GPS Running Watch
2. Garmin Forerunner 205/305/405 – Top Running Watch 2009
3. Garmin Forerunner 305 Review

Polar RS400 Heart Rate Monitor Watch

Overall Rating:

Retail Price: $269.95

Amazon Price: $179.50

Forget about trying to force yourself to get into an unsuitable fitness program! The Polar RS400 Heart Rate Monitor Watch take cares of that by finding that perfect training intensity for your body.

The RS400 features its Polar OwnOptimizer capability. The Polar OwnOptimizer allows this heart rate monitor watch to m determine whether you are under training or over training based on your heart rate, pace, and calories burned and. It measures and analyzes your training results and provides you with visual and aural clues for you to know how effective the runner’s training program is.

With all these data available to you through the Polar RS400, finding ways to ensure successful running training becomes much easier for anyone.

Product Features

• Material:
• Band Type:
• Altimeter: No
• Barometer: No
• Compass: No
• Stopwatch: Yes
• Chronograph: Yes
• Thermometer: No
• Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
• PC Compatible: Yes
• Waterproof: Yes, up to 50m
• Backlight / Electroluminescent: Yes
• Alarms: Yes, with snooze
• Size: Medium
• Recommended Use: Running, aerobic activities
• Weight:
• Warranty: 2 Years

Buy/More Info

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Just the kind of HRM I was looking for
I have been using RS 400 for over a month and completely satisfied with its performance. While I was already excited about its features, when I was researching for a good running computer within my price range, I was a little concerned about some of the negative reviews regarding its infra-red connectivity. The first time I tried downloading data, I did have trouble, but I realized, I was holding it in my hand and my hand was not steady, so I then took the watch off, and placed it on the table close to the USB infrared reader and it has been able to always get the data quickly after that. Other than that, the recording features where you can record your data at 1s, 5s, 60s etc. are great as I’d like to do a lot of interval training and would want to see my heart rate change almost close to real time. The Polar Personal Trainer software that comes free with it is also a big bonus as I can personalize my target zones based on VO2 max values and find out the distribution of my workout in various VO2 max percentages. I also like the fact that it calculates my calorie expenditure by taking VO2 max into account, as well as heart rate, gender, age and weight, unlike the other monitors that just use gender, weight excluding VO2 max, thereby giving my more accurate representation of the calories I am burning. When I compare it to the calories burned shown by my treadmill, bike or elliptical trainer, they show a lot higher number of calories burned almost 20-30% difference. Therefore, I think it is a much more reliable tool even if you just want to lose weight. I would definitely recommend this product to any serious runner or even a casual person, who wants more accurate estimate of their calorie expenditure during a workout.

2 Stars Good heart rate monitor, battery life issue, tough to change the battery
As a hear rate monitor this unit is really good and I like the software that comes with it (this is my third model of Polar monitors). But this is a replacement RS400 because the first one ran through batteries very quickly (to be fair I loved this watch when I first got it and I gave the first unit 5 stars in my review, albeit that was only after about a month of usage). The first battery lasted about four months, the second one four weeks. I don’t suspect this is normal behavior though, it could just be a defect in the unit…or, as I have read on some of the Polar message boards, the watch is designed such that the side buttons are very easily pushed in when setting the watch down on its side such that it could be getting turned on inadvertently and running the battery down. My guess is that it is the latter rather than being a defect. Now I make sure not to put the watch down on its side to prevent this from happening. The watch is also designed so that, theoretically, you can change the battery yourself but the back is made of such soft plastic that it is almost impossible to open it without destroying the battery cover. This is very annoying. My last Polar was great because it had a metal back with small screws that were easy to pop out, change the battery, and pop back in. My guess is you have to have a special jewelers tool to get this back off without damaging the plastic. The conclusion I have come to is that I think this design is just a poor design. They need to go back to the screw on metal backs (e.g. 625Xi) and redesign the buttons to prevent the watch being accidentally turned on and draining the battery. I would recommend you look at a different Polar model as there are other designs that appear to be better and less likely to suffer from these issues.

4 Stars A Good midrange heart monitor.
i’ve upgraded from one of Polar’s eco models to the RS400. So far after three months or so it has worked great. large enough numbers to see ok and backlighting as well. i’m pleased so far. i recommend this product.

5 Stars Great for Triathelon Training
Rock solid – to upload data to your computer via infrared follow these steps 1. make sure your computer recognized your ira port then

2. click on connect from the watch

3. then go to polar desktop software and transfer

follow those step and it rocks.

4 Stars EXERCISE WATCH
THE NUMBERS ARE NOT AS BIG AS I SUPPOSED. I STILL HAVE TO USE GLASSES TO READ THEM WILL EXCERSISING, WAS NOT THE CASE WITH A NIKE TRIAX C8 THAT I USED IN THE PAST. ALL OTHER IS EXCENENT

Buy/More Info

Related posts:

1. Polar RS100 Black Running Series Heart Rate Monitor
2. Polar RS200 Running Heart Rate Monitor
3. Polar RS400sd Heart Rate Monitor Watch with Free IRDA USB 2 0 Interface

Polar RS400 Heart Rate Monitor Watch

Overall Rating:

Retail Price: $269.95

Amazon Price: $179.50

Forget about trying to force yourself to get into an unsuitable fitness program! The Polar RS400 Heart Rate Monitor Watch take cares of that by finding that perfect training intensity for your body.

The RS400 features its Polar OwnOptimizer capability. The Polar OwnOptimizer allows this heart rate monitor watch to m determine whether you are under training or over training based on your heart rate, pace, and calories burned and. It measures and analyzes your training results and provides you with visual and aural clues for you to know how effective the runner’s training program is.

With all these data available to you through the Polar RS400, finding ways to ensure successful running training becomes much easier for anyone.

User Ratings and Reviews

1 Star Does not come with IR Adapter!!!!!!!
Why do they not clearly state that this product does not come with a IR Adapter. Why provide software for analyzing data when they do not provide a way to transfer the data to the computer.

Have they not heard that IR is out and Bluetooth is in!!!!

1 Star Get the Garmin 305 Instead
I got the RS400 to replace the Polar 625X–which failed to connect to my computer just after the warranty expired. key thing about this device is being able to download data to the computer to use the analyzing software. Unfortunatly, I am RETURNING the RS 400 becuase it FAILS TO DOWNOAD to the computer–even using the very expensive POLAR brand IRD interface device. The old watch (625x) was always very touchy to download, took many tries. This fails to transfer at all. I’ve had the Garmin 305 for 2years and love it. It downloads thru a USB connector every time. the only reason I tried to get polar again is to for the OWN INDEX test. But I don’t need to spend $249 for only that functoin when the Garmin 305 does everything else and also has a robust analytical software program (but you cannot print it). really wanted to give Polar another chance and really disappointed. GET THE GARMIN 305 INSTEAD!

-middled aged female athlete

1 Star Polar WebLink is useless
I have been using a RS200 for a few months. The unit works fine capturing the data but the hassle that one needs to go through to get the data uploaded to the Polar site via Weblink is very very cumbersome. It is a hit and a miss and I have given up on transmitting my data because of this useless feature.

5 Stars Perfect for planning workouts and maintaining workout records
Often products that have a multitude of functions and settings can be a little daunting. I was a bit concerned that this heart rate monitor would be too difficult to program, but was really interested in having the ability to program/customize my own workout zones. Much to my delight, the watch is very simple to program, the directions are easily understood, and I am able to transfer data back and forth between my watch and my laptop via the infrared function. (People with computers without infrared readers will need to purchase the optional cable.) I now have records of my workouts and am able to plan my interval training in advance and program the workouts, including 5 zones, into the watch. The only downside is that there is not a design/color option for women. The watch appears to have been designed more for a man than a woman.

5 Stars My third Polar and the best yet
I have no problems with the IR transfer others have mentioned, although this has been problematic on my two previous models (one i broke and one I gave to a friend as an excuse to buy this cool new one). My S610 worked well for the first couple of years but then struggled to connect via IR. One thing I will say is steer very clear of that Polar after marker IR device (see my other review on that specifically). It is an absolute overpriced piece of garbage (I usually don’t speak out that strongly against something but after spending $120 on two of them I want to help others not flush good money down the drain). For $20 you can get a Startech model that works flawlessly. I use this monitor 5 days a week and the Polar Precision Performance software that comes with it is solid. I do recommend upgrading to a model that includes this software as their weblink tool is pretty worthless (my wife uses it because her F55 is not supported by the Polar Precision Performance software). Overall though the Polar watches and chest bands are the best.

Buy/More Info

Related posts:

1. Polar RS300X Heart Rate Monitor Watch Orange
2. Polar RS300X SD Heart Rate Monitor Watch with S1 Foot Pod Black
3. Heart Rate Polar RS400 Monitor

Forget about trying to force yourself to get into an unsuitable fitness program! The Polar RS400sd Heart Rate Monitor Watch take cares of that by finding that perfect training level for your body.

The RS400sd features its Polar OwnOptimizer capability. The Polar OwnOptimizer allows this heart rate monitor watch to m determine whether you are under training or over training based on your heart rate, pace, and calories burned and. It measures and analyzes your training results and provides you with visual and aural clues for you to know how effective the runner’s training program is.

The Polar RS400sd Heart Rate Monitor Watch also comes with a free IRDA USB 2.0 interface and Polar Protrainer 5 training planning and analyzing software. This makes it easier for any runner to upload his data to the computer, and analyze the results of his workout.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Very Repeatable Results
The RS400 foot pod gives very repeatable results. Initially, with no calibration, the foot pod was 7% accurate for me. It didn’t matter if the distance was 3 miles or 9 miles it maintained a 7% error. I did a manual correction using data from a 7 mile run and the unit is now about 1-2% accurate. I think I can improve it better if I calibrate it using data taken from a 1600m track run. I personally like doing the manual correction because it allows me go back to a previous factor if a new one does not perform better.

My wife happens to have the Garmin Forerunner 405 while I went with the Polar RS400sd so we have been able to compare both systems. They both can measure and record your workouts and come with s/w for your computer. Both s/w packages have a workout diary and allow you to define custom workouts and upload them to your watch. This feature is great for interval training. No more having to remember how many laps you’ve completed or how much your pace should change. I think the Garmin s/w might have a slight edge compared to Polar’s. Overall both systems work very well, each with their +/-. Here are some notable features for each.

Polar RS400 Pros:

-No need to look for GPS satellite signals

-Very Repeatable results

-Calories burned calculation based on hear rate.

-Good battery life

-Display Screens very customizable

-Capable of manual calibration

-comfortable wrist unit

Polar RS400 Cons:

-Do need to calibrate foot pod for best accuracy

-Downloading workout data is temperamental with IR connection

-Auto laping feature based on start of workout not on the start of the last lap. It would be cool to be able to record a lap manually and then continue auto laping based on that point.

-foot pod is a little bulky (but surprisingly unnoticeable while running)

-Have to manually erase workout data after download. Would be nice if this was done automatically.

Garmin 405 Pros:

-GPS receiver in wrist unit

-No need to calibrate

-Actual route can be viewed on a map

-Buttonless screen navigation

-Data download connection to computer is very robust.

Garmin 405 Cons:

-Have to set you watch out for a few minutes to look for GPS satellites

-Watch unit needs to be recharged regularly (GPS is power hungry)

-Watch is a little bulky

-Buttonless screen feature can be temperamental during a workout

3 Stars RS 400 SD
I find this product to be an excellent tool for keeping track of my workouts. The one complaint I have is that there seems to be a glitch with transfering information to my desktop; I find that I often have to close the Polar program and reopen it in order to get the transfer to work. Other than that it’s easy to use and very sturdy. The footpod has been accurate and, although it can be difficult to attach to my shoe, it has held up very well to trail runs, stream crossings and muddy days.

3 Stars Works alright
I’ve tried several Polar heart monitors before, but this is the first one I’ve tried with a soft strap. The strap is more comfortable and seems to be easier to get good contact than the hard straps. Having said that, I still have problems with getting good contact and often need to dump more water on the strap during the first ten minutes of my run. Be sure to really soak the strap before starting… a little dab of water is not enough.

The IrDA device is pretty touchy… borderline obnoxious. It seems more like a beta product than a reliable production product. The watch has to be pressed against the transceiver, help really steady, and typically I have to make two or three attempts before it works. I would not have been very happy to purchase the IrDA device separately, especially considering the gouging price that Polar sells it for, and experience these problems. FWIW: the IrDA port on my Thinkpad interfaces with the watch so it may be possible to get a less expensive IrDA device if you need another. Just seems like some sort of solid protected USB like plug would be far superior.

I don’t use the running pod.

I really like the zone alarms which give you an audible indication if you are dogging it or pushing too hard.

If you don’t really need logging capabilities, you may want to consider a less expensive monitor.

4 Stars RS 400 SD
I was using the Nike Ipod pedometer for a few weeks to track my distance and time. The Nike Ipod after a few weeks was just not accurate enough for my needs. I ended up buying the 400 SD with all its feautres. My first run was for 1 mile and the pedometer was accurate at 1.05 miles. The heart rate showed a steady increase the first minute of my run and then it leveled off as I would expect. After my run I was able to download the information into my laptop with no problems. My laptop has a built in Ir port so it was no problem with the transfer. The software is fairly easy to use and has several reports to show you different graphical curves of your heart rate.

Overall, I really like the product and for my first run it was fairly simple. My only issue with this item is the price. Sure is a lot of money but then it does have a lot of features. You really need to read the directions for this item. There are so many sub pages and functions that it is not intuitive as to how to navigate thru all the different pages on the watch.

Buy/More Info

Related posts:

1. Polar RS300X SD Heart Rate Monitor Watch with S1 Foot Pod Black
2. Polar RS200 Running Heart Rate Monitor
3. Heart Rate Polar RS400 Monitor