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 On: 2009-09-28
The heart monitor and watch work fine BUT the display is grainy, small, and hard to see. Far cheaper monitors and watches have far better, brighter, bigger displays.
And - the beeps to warn that you have gone above or below your heart range are so low that there is no way to hear them on the exercise floor! You have to keep the unit to your ear to hear them.
People recommended this so I bought this but I am not happy with this unit.
 On: 2009-09-28
The monitor has great features. Probably the best in the market. My transmitter though only lasted for 64 hours of training. In spite of the good care I took of it after I used it. I had to replace it because you cant replace the batteries.
 On: 2009-09-25
I liked the POLAR F6 a lot, it is easy to use and useful in order to have the acurate measurement of the heart rate during the excercise session.
On: 2009-09-23
To my surprise, you cannot change the batteries on this watch yourself.
The batteries will die after about 6 months to a year and you have to send it back to the factory (which means being without a watch for several weeks AND paying 30-50$ for battery replacement).
During battery replacement the factory damaged my watch.
At first it was just a crack in the lense of the watch... annoying but not worth the trouble of taking it back and using the 90 day guarantee.
Then a few days after 90 days, the "start" button fell off, the damage to the casing became apparent, and the glass lense completely split in two.
I am very annoyed with Polar but have not found another solution sooo...
Im going to buy another one!
My recommendation: be extremely VIGILANT when you get your watch back from replacing the battery and take it right back to the store if you see any damage to the casing or the glass.
On: 2009-09-14
This is my first experience with a heart rate monitor. Being an overweight woman, with a heart condition, a heart rate monitor was recommended by my nutritionist and doctor upon beginning a new life style. Really helps in know what level I am working at and should be trying for. Very easy to use. Read the book and none of the functions are hard. Very pleased with all of the features. Only drawback is I am a Macintosh user and can not use the tracking software on my laptop.
On: 2009-09-11
Simply put, I love my watch! Ill start off by saying I wasnt really interested in spending almost $100 on a watch, even if it had a fancy chest strap as an accessory. But Im glad I sucked it up, and took the chance. I wasnt sure Id be able to handle a strap around my chest while running, walking, biking & weight training. However, once I figured the strap out (its not rocket science, but it managed to confuse me for a while), this is the best piece of workout gear I have ever purchased. Better than my Nikes, better than my super ridiculous expensive but oh-so-comfy clothing, & better than my Nike/Apple Sportskit for my iPod. This little piece of electronic parts goes with me everywhere I go. It is so much more accurate than the machines at the gym, since it is personalized specifically for you. And it makes adjusting your running, walking or biking so easy since it automatically syncs with any machine that is Polar-ready. I dont have to hold onto the sensors, which the machine specifically tells you not to do while running, in order to ensure my heart isnt going to pound its way out of my chest. I can see my heart rate on the screen next to my speed, incline & calories burned. Not only does it tell me when to speed it up or slow it down, but it keeps me safe on the treadmill. Basically, if youre thinking about buying this watch/chest strap combo, just buy it!! You wont regret it.
On: 2009-09-07
Monitor is as shown - if you wear the watch as a timepiece and want to use it for exercise, this may not be the model for you. You cant switch back and forth from time to heart rate and exercise without starting exercise data completely over. Disappointing - the cheaper models offer this feature. Otherwise, it works ok. Id probably order the less expensive F6 in the need arises in the future.
On: 2009-09-04
So, I bought this watch originally thinking it would monitor my heart rate on command. Big mistake. It doesnt work at all without the strap. At first I was very disappointed by this fact. Now my thinking has come around 180 degrees. It turns out that the chest strap is the finest thing in life since sliced bread. All of your better quality gym equipment support the strap. Devices such as the LeMond bikes and the LifeFitness Elliptical crosstrainers will all lock onto that short wave signal and report your heart rate accurately, at all times, regardless of whether you hold the grips or not. That is a great and wonderful thing. It is a pain to cling to the grips, and they are not particularly accurate heart rate monitors in the first place.
The watch turns out to be a sizable disappointment. The LCD numbers are way too small when they could be much larger. Get rid of the animation. Give us big numbers. The backlight is horrible. You wont be able to read the time or the numbers in a dim environment (say a movie theater). You have to click too many buttons to get into a workout recording mode, and you have to click too many buttons to break out of it.
This watch suffers from computer confirmation syndrome (CCS). CCS is a type of Tourette Syndrome that greatly afflicts the minds of software engineers everywhere. You should not ask twice if the user really, really, really wants to begin or really, really, really wants to stop. The interface needs a major redesign. It should become like a stop watch. 1 click starts the count. 1 click stops the count. Fire your software designers and your software engineers. Get new ones. Death to CCS.
There is another important flaw. The watch attempts to give you a calorie count. This figure inaccurate and disagrees with the exercise machines calorie count if you compare the two numbers. The watch is wrong. The machine is right. The machine is in a better position to know what you are doing because it can calculate the wattage you are expending. The watch knows nothing of the resistance level you are currently fighting. It cannot know the wattage level your are expending.
I would highly recommend that you buy the strap and not the watch.
 On: 2009-08-31
Had to return the Polar F6 twice over the year. First one of the buttons would fall off and then it would stop working. This is only from Zumba and treadmill. Would not purchase again.
 On: 2009-08-31
I wanted a monitor for cycling and other exercise. This one is simple to use and provides the info I want.
On: 2009-07-28
I love this watch, I wear it everyday, great for my workouts, BUT the watchband in pale pink attracts dirt like a magnet.....I wash it but in less than a year Ive had to replace the band....a real pain to get the replacement also. I wouldnt have bought pink but it was sold as a promotion to fund breast cancer research in October.
On: 2009-07-26
The Polar f6 is easy to use, and the strap fits comfortably around your chest, I just got mine this week and so far theres no interference problems with the transmitter. All the features seem to be accurate and reliable. Therefore i see no reason not to recommend this product. Dont bother with the negative comments, I assure you its a good deal.
On: 2009-07-17
Ive had this watch for about a month now, and I use it 3-4 times per week. This is my first heart rate monitor, and I wanted one that would just give me a better calculation of my calorie burn and time in target heart rate zone. This product does both of those very well.
I havent had any problems getting the monitor to read my heart rate. When I read some of the other reviews, I was a little worried about not being able to replace the battery on the chest strap. Now, I dont really see that as a big problem. By the time the battery goes out, Ill probably be ready to "step up" to a better model with more features.
I was pleasantly surprised that I can upload my workout information to the polar Web site. Their site is pretty basic, but it helps you keep track of your weekly and monthly progress.
The documentation that came with the product could have been better, but, between the insert and the web site, I figured it out.
Bottom line: Seems like a very good entry heart rate monitor.
On: 2009-07-15
I get really frustrated with this product, because every workout I have problems with it. I will jog, and the monitor will say that my heart rate is 38 (When it works properly, it will say that my heart rate is 168-180 when jogging). Once I did a five minute warm up of cardio (jumping jacks, jump rope, jogging in place, high kicks, etc.) and looked at my watch, and it had zeroed out and said that in those 5 minutes of cardio I had only burned 9 calories. It is REALLY frustrating. The battery is fine, so I dont know what the problem is. I wish it would work properly, because I love knowing where my heart rate is and how many calories Im burning, and I love tracking my fitness. I dont know whats going on with this product. Its driving my crazy.
On: 2009-07-10
Received the item 5 weeks ago. So far working fine. Ordered it through Amazon thinking the annual shipping membership with Amazon helps by ordering from Amazon. At the end of ordering process realized that additional $8+ shipping payment is required as the item is not directly from Amazon. On top of it, unlike Amazons prompt shipping; it took about/over a week to receive the poduct.
On: 2009-07-05
I really liked this product. Its very user friendly. I would recommend it to anyone.
On: 2009-07-05
hello!!! well, i purchased a polar heart rate monitor when i was pregnant with my first child. my doctor suggested that i do not exceed my heart rate over 140 when pregnant, so i bought one just to make sure i knew when to slow it down. its been 6 years and i finally had to purchase a second one because i made the mistake of changing my own battery on my original heart rate monitor. it worked beautifully until i took it swimming last week. i have become accustomed to working out with it because it gives me my target zone on how hard my heart should be pumping, along with the time. I just purchased the F6 model, which also give you a calorie counter, which is an added bonus. i highly recommend this watch to anyone who is wanting to get back into shape, who has flat lined on their workout, who is an athlete, or someone that just wants to track their fitness. it is worth every penny! there are times when i have gone months without working out and then get back in the gym to find out truly how hard my heart is working. a month later, that same workout will result in my heart beating much slower, which means i am getting back into shape! its not what the scale says, its how hard you workout and how quickly you recover. i love the calorie counter too because it allows me to see how much i have burned in that particular session. this is for everyone. buy it and you will see what i am talking about. the watch is slick enough too to wear for everyday, not just for working out. i am relatively small boned and its nice that the watch doesnt overpower my wrist like the older version did. only downside? you need to send it to an authorized polar dealer to change the battery, which only lasts about 1 1/2 years. and they get you on the price...i hope you like it as much i have have enjoyed my 2 watches!!!!
francisca marti. danville, ca.
On: 2009-07-01
This watch is excellent. The heart rate is accurate if you follow the directions and wet the electrodes before working out. I have yet to get a reading that seems too absurd to be true.
On: 2009-06-30
I love this watch/heart rate monitor!! I bought a different watch that did not have the chest strap and it was not very accurate so I sent it back and ordered this one and I love it. I really like the instant heart rate monitoring and the calorie count. Great watch!!
On: 2009-06-19
I love this thing but I certainly didnt get the life I was expecting. The transmitter no longer works and I have to get a new one rather than replacing the battery. I only got it in April and this is June. I am not even sure I can find where to get one! IU actually have two of them, plus an older one
On: 2009-06-13
The Heart Rate Monitor worked okay for about two months then became unreliable. The heart rate goes in and out of lock. Wetting the chest band helped in the beginning. The watch display started to fade after about one year. I was so disgusted with the reliability I decided to try replacing the watch battery myself....dont try it. I disposed of the watch/waste band in the trash.......no loss. The watch/chest band must be retured to a dealer for battery replacement. After reading HRM reviews I decided to buy the Timex Heart Rate Monitor at Costco for $39 (user replaceable batteries). All I need is a HRM that will show I have reached my target HR, I do not need all the bells and whistles, its on the workout equipment.
On: 2009-06-13
I purchased Polar F6 because my trainer told me it was one of the best HRMs in the market, so I took his word for it! For a beginner, as myself, the Polar F6 was easy to use and program, it is VERY helpful with monitoring my HR during my workouts and I feel the benefits of working within zone. The F6 provides easy to access data and keeps a record of your workouts to note progress. Overall is a good quality HRM and I am sure I am not using it at its full capacity...but for my basic needs, the F6 was a great investment.
On: 2009-06-10
I really liked this Heart Monitor but had major problems with the chest strap. I had to tuck it under my sports bra for it to stay in place and not end up around my waist. I had it the tightest it could go, if it could have been a little tighter maybe I would have kept it. However, after reading into the Motiva Mio heart monitor I realized that to get an accurate reading you need the chest strap. So I might purchase this one again....
On: 2009-06-04
I love my polar black dimond heart monitor!
If this is the first heart monitor you will love it...the strap seems uncomfortable but is not! At the end of the day I barely notice since I put under my sports bra. And the cool thing is that it does send the information to the treadmill and you dont have to watch on you wrist instead.
Also I like the fact that I can download my work out to the polar site and track how many calories I have burned. Is pretty easy.
I didnt buy from amazon because they dont have the best price yet.. I paid $ 94 because the site I bought price match jomashop site. 5/2009
I am only 5f short and not a super petite skinny girl.. and I like the way the watch looks!
On: 2009-05-26
This product is excellent! It gives me incentive to work out harder while watching my heart rate so I dont over-do it. Would recommend to anyone, especially people new to working out.
On: 2009-05-26
I love knowing what my heart rate is every time I work out. I have always been a walker, but started running to get my rate up. Very challenging.
On: 2009-05-20
I like the Polar F6 heart rate monitor, but, it is a little uncomfortable for me. For women who wear an underwire bra, it is not very easy to wear. Because of the underwire, I have a hard time getting it in the right position, and when I do, it cuts into me because of the bra. I wish there was another place to wear it, or if they could come up with an alternative heart rate monitor design.
On: 2009-05-09
I purchased this HRM 1 month ago and I just love it. This is my first one ever. I learned about it from someone in my spinning class that said, dont bother messing with the $50-$60 varieties. This was her 3rd HRM and she urged me to just spring for the Polar $100 and I would be much happier. I am!!! I find it pretty easy to learn and navigate my way around. I do boot camp every MWF and found another person in class that also recently purchased the same watch. We compared calories burned and they were pretty close. I find this to be more reliable in telling me calories burned verses what the gym equipment tells me. i.e. I use the eliptical at the gym and my HRM shows I burned 150 calories when the machine says 220. I feel that based on my HR, age and weight, it gives me a more accurate account. I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a good reliable HRM.
On: 2009-05-08
I like it. I havent had a chance to figure out all the features yet, but Im not sure if Ill need to use all of them anyway. Its been pretty easy to use so far. The only compaint is that the band that goes around the chest rubs on my skin and Ive gotten a little chaffing. But I have pretty sensitive skin, so its probably more to do with me than the actual product.
On: 2009-05-06
"I ordered a F6 polar f/men and received a Polar F6 Diamond Heart f/Women. Contacted the seller and firstly said me that i was wrong, that they shipped the correct item. In answer to this email i sent them back the information of the watch box, and the serial # in the back of the watch, for them to clearly check the inventory and notice their fault. They treated me bad and didnt resolve the matter."
On: 2009-05-05
I bought this heart monitor on the recomendation of a friend who has one. Unfortunately the company (Joma) did not allow for a size selection. They sent a M which would not fit me. I called the customer service number to try and exchange it for a larger size. It took 25 min to get through only to be told that was "the only one we had". I then asked how to go about returning it, and was told I had to print out a form and mail it in for a "return code". However they only allow returns 30 days from when they shipped it to me, and since they took 3 weeks to get it here, and a week to respond to my email so that time is gone now. I would strongly recommend trying a different vendor of the item. Which looks like it would work great...if only it was my size.
On: 2009-05-05
I have been very, very pleased with this product so far, after having been using it 3-4 times a week since December 08 and 5-6 times a week since March 09. It has performed extremely well even with my (sorry to say) very hairy chest.
If I could have given it 4.5 stars I would have, but the fact that you have to send it away to get the battery changed is sort of hassle. Overall, though, I highly recommend this. Very, very happy with it.
On: 2009-04-25
I love how I can see how many calories I burned. The machines at my gym normally way I burn a 50 + more calories than I actually did. It also helps keep me motivated to stay in my target heart rate zone. Was a little difficult to program but once I played around I got it.
Love this watch!
On: 2009-04-24
I think this watch is great. I have been using it for a few weeks and have not had an issue with it. Its comfortable and I dont even realize I am wearing the strap when I am working out. Its easy and fun to use and use it for running. It motivates me to workout harder and longer! My boyfriend has the same watch for men and he digs it too.
On: 2009-04-20
This heart rate monitor is very easy to use. It is extremely accurate and comfortable. It has a watch, alarm and timer all in it. Great for general exercise monitoring.
On: 2009-04-14
The Polar F6 Heart Rate monitor is very easy to use, once you have read the directions. It tracks calories burned, as well as heart rate broken down into time in light, moderate and hard zones. It beeps when you are not in your target heart rate zone or when you are above it. This was initially annoying, but I hardly notice it now.
On: 2009-04-10
Ive been very happy with this watch. Its cute and it does what I want. Its easy to you and the chest strap is comfortable. The first watch I got didnt work, but Amazon was shipping a new one before they even got my return. The second one has been fine.
On: 2009-03-30
I use this heart rate monitor for my Bikram Yoga class. I think its accurate and comfortable to wear. However, I have the alarm sound turned to off and also the heart rate alarm turned to off and the stupid thing keeps beeping in the middle of my class!
This is a yoga class and requires quiet. I called Polar customer service and they werent of much assistance, besides telling me to ship it back to them (at my own expense, of course).
Other than the beeping issue, I do like the monitor and feel its pretty accurate. I just wish it would shut-up.
On: 2009-03-30
The first HRM Ive owned, so nothing to compare it to. The HRM itself seems to work well - its been great to be able to monitor my heart rate zones during my workout. (Note that the wrist unit lets you set a max and a minimum which you can view as actual HR or as %of max HR... but you cannot define multiple subzones within that max/min range - ie, you cant set limits that show you when you are in zone 2, 3, 4, or 5 - you must remember in your head what your personal zone limits are.)
The big problem I am having is trying to upload my workout data to the polarpersonaltrainer.com website. This has NOT been easy, and after 4-5 hours of working and trying 2 different microphones on my computer, still has been unsuccessful. Altho Polars instruction manual claims to provide "detailed information" on its website for uploading, it does not. The information is there, yes, but apparently the software itself is quite flaky and finnicky as to uploading the data from the wrist unit. There are quite a few posts to Polars discussion forum regarding this problem, but Polars posted answers simply refer back to the information that is already online and which many of the users - like myself - have already read and followed, without success.
I havent yet decided whether to make more attempts at uploading data. If uploading all of your data is important to you, buyer be forewarned. I dont have experience w/other HRMs, so I dont know if this is a common flaw or not.
On: 2009-03-30
Works great, you need to be patient and give alittle time with learning all it can do. I only wish the band was softer.
On: 2009-03-20
Keep in mind that I am a new user, and am still experimenting with the functions, especially trying to get the correct tightness adjustment on the chest-strap transmitter. This unit might deserve 4 stars if I was more proficient in using all of its features.
I purchased this heart rate monitor so that I could improve on the results of the cardio portions of my regular workouts (a lot of this is on a treadmill). I wanted a Polar brand because the 2 gyms that I use have "Polar-Ready" equipment, which means that the heart rate measured by this monitor will transmit and display on the treadmills, elipticals, and other machines so that you dont have to keep looking at the watch. I have had varying results on this, mostly positive.
I belong to 2 gyms. One is a very large gym (Ballys) that has a large quantity of Polar-Ready machines. I have found that the heart rate display on the treadmills that I use jump in and out somewhat, and that the readings on the treadmills dont always match what is being displayed on the heart-rate monitor wristwatch. There is often a delay where one of the devices changes, then the other one matches it in a few seconds, however. Occasionally, it stops reading my heart rate altogether, but always resumes in a short period of time. I am not sure what causes that to happen. It still works relatively well, however. Since I know my own body, I am certain that when the readings disagree, that the fault is on the gym equipment; the heart rate monitor is reading correctly. Even on the worst day, this monitor outperforms the "handrail" use of the treadmills, which rarely ever functions properly.
In the small gym, which has only 6 machines that are Polar-ready (and they are all right next to each other in a line), the readings are much more stable. In most cases, the readings between the Polar wristwatch and the displays on the machine match almost perfectly (at least with a few seconds between number changes). One interesting note: In the small gym, there are 3 identical treadmills right next to each other (the other 3 machines mentioned are eliptial machines). On one occasion, I was using the treadmill in the middle, and the other two were also in use. My heart rate displayed on the machine I was using, and was also showing up on the machine to my left. It was not displaying on the machine to my right, and all were identical machines. I never did figure that one out! One added note: I also own another wristwatch heart-rate monitor that does not use a chest strap. It does not give continuous monitoring; you must hold down 3 buttons for several seconds to get a reading. I have tried using both at the same time to compare the readings. Result: They were almost dead on, so I have GREAT confidence in the accuracy of the readings.
It is important to mositen the chest band before beginning your exercise, and to make sure that the chest band is on tight enough. The unit has a LOT of great features, including the option to set your desired heart rate range. It will then keep track of how many minutes & seconds that your heart rate was within those limits. I really like that feature.
I AM STILL LEARNING TO USE THIS DEVICE, so I might be more critical than I need to be. I DO recommend this product.
On: 2009-03-19
This is my 3rd heart rate monitor in 8 years. I dont know about the people that have them FOREVER, but Ive always had to get a new one because my battery dies. Ive had 2 POLAR and a MIO. My latest F6 just died. I read a review on this site saying to go check out your local jeweler. So I did. Checked to make sure they actually were familiar with the monitor and knew how to change the battery. They assured me "no problem", took my monitor, replaced the battery, and I paid $12.99. I thought, "great, didnt have to send it to a POLAR dealer and got by way cheaper". HA! Water condensation started to build up and a week and a half later my POLAR monitor is dead. No signal. No nothing. The batteries wear out on these things. Ive had this one for 1 1/2 year and use it 6 days a week to work out. My normal battery time for all these monitors has been less than 2 years. Granted, this model is cute and only costs $109.00 so as long as you know youll have to replace it every 2 years.
I do like the file feature that you can check out all your workouts and what "zone" your heart rate is in during a workout. I like the simplicity of this model compared to the more expensive ($200-$300) models. I will buy another one knowing that the battery will be dying in 1 1/2-2 years. I use it for spinning, running, gym workouts and classes and strength training.
I always get compliments on "what a cute watch", so definitely looks better on a womans hand than the big, bulky black models.
Overall, I like the model but beware the short battery life.
On: 2009-03-19
I dont know exactly how accurate this device is as far as calories burned, but being able to see the results of my workout makes my routine very dynamic. Im starting to concentrate less on sets and reps and more on a target heart rate. Whats also nice to see is that after working out for an hour my heart rate is elevated by as many as 25 BPM for over an hour after I stop which is burning even more calories than it initially calculates. If you keep the band on for a day you can see how many calories you can burn in just quick exercise sets, like doing 40 pushups and situps after a meal burns over 50 calories and I barely break a sweat. Soldier approved!
On: 2009-03-18
This heart rate monitor is better than I expected. It helps one to determine if one is indeed working within the heart rate expected and although its a bit "large" on a small womans arm, one doesnt need to really have it on the wrist at all. You can simply have it near the cardio machine of your choice - better yet, the cardio machine picks up your heart rate from the monitor strapped around your chest so you dont even need to have the watch to see how youre doing. Fabulous choice! Buy it.
On: 2009-03-09
I love my Polar f6! It is easy to use and keeps track of everything I need. I really like the stop watch feature when I run outside so I can time intervals and know how long Ive been running. I have no issues so far! I use at everyday!
On: 2009-03-05
I havent owned a HRM before, and decided to purchase one to make improvements in my bicycling goals. Its a recommended purchase. Since purchasing it, Ive noticed very quick improvements once I based my training on suggested heart rates that I monitored with this HRM.
The unit comes with a chest transmitter that has a strap for a "medium" chest. I have a 48" chest, and after extending its buckle to the maximum it fits just right. If you have a chest diameter of more than this (where it is attached to the chest) you will need to purchase a larger strap. Ive seen the straps for sale and they are less than $10. The strap seems to stay in place for most of my exercises, although Ive had to adjust it a couple of times when it began to "ride down" my chest.
Ive also discovered the T31 transmitter that comes with this unit also works with a lot of cardio machines you find in gyms. So this is very handy... you dont have to look at the HRM itself all the time, but you can keep an eye on what is reported on the cardio machine equipment. That was a nice "extra" I didnt expect.
The HRM unit itself had all the basic features I was looking for. I think its a great "first monitor" if youve never had one before. Its enough to accomplish any immediate goals you have and will make you think about other features you may want in more expensive HRMs. Ive found it sufficient for my purposes.
The menus take a little time to learn, but within a day youll have it. One thing I have wished for on the HRM is that it seems you can only be monitoring for a single "zone" during an exercise session. I have 3 zones I want to include in my exercise program, so I have to manually change the zone limits each time I want to train in a different zone. Thats a hassle for me... how many of you can remember all your zone limits?
One one thing I have wished for on this HRM is the ability to delete old logs. They stay until they finally fall out of a time range. When I first purchased the HRM, I had 3 "play sessions" to learn how it works. Later I accidentally turned on the HRM when I was going to the gym. This created 4 "fake training sessions" that I cannot remove in the history log. Whenever I upload my training sessions to Polars personal trainer web site, these "fake sessions" show up each time and I have to manually delete them. It would be great to be able to remove these directly from the HRM itself and not have to do this each time.
Anyway -- I still recommend it. Its a great first purchase of a HRM.
On: 2009-02-16
I always get Polar HRM- they last forever & I usually give my old ones to my sisters to use, because they still work. But when it comes to working out, I am a gadget junkie so I have to have the newest model/color. I noticed the biggest complaint by others is battery replacement. I have never had a transmitter quit working & my batteries usually last a good long while. So... when you go to replace your battery, use your local jeweler. He can order the battery if he doesnt have it on hand. F11, he has on hand usually- F6 or F4, may have to order. BUT it always costs me between $10-15!!! And I know he will put it back together well- no leaks. Dont worry about that waterproofing junk- mine have never leaked even after I replaced the batteries. Polar is the best, hands down- & they have great features & are easy to use!
On: 2009-02-08
This is my first HRM watch. Arrived in perfect condition and was user-friendly for initial set up. Chest band that comes with is a Medium, but dont be discouraged if youre a large frame, it is much bigger than I need and Im 59 225lbs. Watch is helpful in all aspects of exercise regime. First, it is easy to use and very helpful while working out. I constantly adjust the treadmill to keep my HR in the zone Im going for on a given day. Second, and most importantly, it reminds you how often you actually work out. You might find that your mind had been playing tricks on you. For instance, I like to think I easily workout three or four times a week, but that really just isnt the case, unfortunately. Its more like twice a week. That sucks, but its good to know and gets me a little more motivated when I strap this thing on because the first thing I say after I see its been four days is - "DAM# IT"...what was I thinking....Anyway,this watch is golden. I use it to run for about 45-60 min three or four, wait, no, twice a week. The best thing its done for my workouts is make them less painful becuase I know exactly how hard to work to keep my HR in the "zone." Its a lot less work than I thought to keep my HR in a good spot for 45min-1hr. Before owning this watch, I worked out way too hard...Great buy.....
On: 2009-02-07
This product is WONDERFUL!! Ive been using it for several weeks and LOVE it!! I thought the chest strap would be uncomfortable, but it is a flexible plastic and isnt a problem at all. This watch makes it fun to exercise. I love seeing how many calories Ive burned!
On: 2009-02-05
I have had this watch now for about a month. I have never had a HRM but figured I needed one to improve my training. The HRM functions are great and found really easy to learn. The display is large and the alarms are loud to be annoying which I suppose that is its purpose.
The only negative is that lack of stop watch function or lap counter. I have grown accustomed to using a Timex Ironman watch as a lap stopwatch. I like the control you to have start and stop, control splits for laps. The typical jogging and training stuff. So I was hoping I can have the same stopwatch function and augment HRM functions. Unfortunately, that didnt happen. Once exercise mode begins it continues. Laps and splits are not available. So I have resulted to wearing two wrist watches, the Timex and F6. Dont get me wrong I would not return the F6, I think its great at what it does, but lacks the functions I have been used to.
On: 2009-02-05
I have had this watch for almost 3 years now and I will not work-out without it. It does an excellent job of keep track of calories burned, length of workout, percentage of fat-burn, and so forth. I am mainly keep track of calories burned. Oh, and of course it will let you know how hard your are working out. I do run and when my heartrate spikes, I know its time to slow down, so its excellent on helping you not over-exert.
Its also very cool looking and comfortable. Highly recommend it!
On: 2009-01-29
Everyone recommended polar for a heart rate monitor when I was looking for one. I received it quickly and it was very easy to set up and customize. Lots of features but not overwhelming. This is the first heart rate monitor I have used and its been great. The strap is also very thin and I can not even tell that its on.
On: 2009-01-29
I purchased this item as a gift for a good friend & the item did not activate & does not work! Very embarassed as I have ordered products through Amazon & have been happy with the products. Please advise what I need to do. My friend has tried calling Polar customer service & there is a 30 minute wait each time ! Please help..
Thank you
On: 2009-01-24
I really like my new heart monitor. I bought a Polar brand because it transmits the info to all the machines I use at the health club that I belong to; this makes staying in my zone very easy. The only thing I would improve on it is I would like to also be able to see what time it is while Im still exercising. When you have it in exercise mode, you cant view the current time.
On: 2009-01-13
This is a great product to keep track of your fitness progress, count calories, and weight loss. I wear this every day and its fantastic to see the calories Ive burned. The most difficut thing about getting it set up is to figure out how to sync it. However, once you have it ready to sync to the computer, its great to see your monthly and weekely calendars to keep you motivated
On: 2009-01-11
This is my first heart rate monitor, but I am very satisfied. It is completely what I need for beginning running. I was happy with the service of the seller and I have no complaints or requests.
On: 2009-01-08
I was a bit hesitant to buy this HRM since it was priced high for what I thought I needed. However, after using it for almost a year now, I am glad I did. The chest strap is much more comfortable than the bulky plastic one from my previous HRM and the features of the Polar are nice too. I also think they did a pretty good job on the design of the unit since most look like some sort of Dick Tracy wrist radio and have nerd written all over them (not that I mind being labeled a nerd, but I dont think I need to advertise it). I dont mind wearing this in public at all. Also, the screen is easy to read and most of the information large enough for my waning eyes, which as I get older is important.
One thing I should mention. I changed the batteries on the transmitter strap recently, but I was still getting an intermittent transmission. I went to the Polar site and one of the things they mention is to wash the strap (not the transmitter itself which snaps off) in warm soapy water. I thought I had been washing it enough after use in plain ol tap water every so often. However, after using warm soapy water, the transmission improved dramatically with no drops at all, just like new.
One last thing... another nice feature is the transmitter strap does send a signal to my Elliptical machine, so I can monitor my workout with the Polar device and the onboard elliptical HRM (nice to compare and they do come close), however my other transmitter straps do not send to the Polar wrist device.
EDIT and UPDATE: My transmitter went and died permanently. I wish I could update my stars. They want $50.00 plus shipping for another transmitter which is just silly since it is obviously a common problem. I went ahead and ordered the top selling Omron HRM (wrist and belt) for around $30. I ended up using the Omron transmitter with the Polar HRM (it looks a bit better) and still have the Omron HRM as backup. I figured even though the Polar transmitter belt is a bit more comfortable, it wasnt worth the extra money to take the chance that it dies again. Polar should be ashamed of themselves. If you dont need the all the extra junk on the Polar, just get the Omron.
On: 2009-01-06
I ordered the Polar heart monitor as a gift. I received exactly what I ordered and it arrived ahead of schedule. Great service and shipping was free. In fact, the free shipping is why I ordered on-line rather than shop for the product at retail stores.
On: 2008-12-28
This HRM is great because it fits my style and it is very useful. It calculates your "own zone" to make sure you are working out at your own peak levels, not just some generic guideline. It is comfortable! I thought I wouldnt like the chest strap but when I am working out I cant even tell it is there. It is very motivating to see the calories burned adding up as I work out. A HRM like this is a must for those interested in getting the most of their workout.
On: 2008-12-24
I am a 27 yr old male and this is the perfect HR monitor for me. It is easy to set up and use. I am very happy with it and use it 5x a week. You wont regret buying this.
On: 2008-12-18
Price is good, but the post service solving questions not good enough. Also they need to improve their customer service after sells. No nice to receive mails from them to discuss about my opinion.
On: 2008-12-17
I bought this for my wife a year ago. She uses it almost daily and it works great. No problems.
On: 2008-12-14
This heart rate monitor was the brand my trainer told me to buy. It has everything I need and then some. Its easy to read, and I like that it has the time so I can wear it even when Im not in the gym.
On: 2008-12-09
I got the F6 to monitor my heart rate and aid in burning calories. Since the watch uses your own heart rate, weight, height, age, and various other information to compute your calories burned you get a much more accurate picture. I found that my treadmill, which tells me the number of calories burned, was nearly 200 calories higher than what I was actually burning per the F6. This is extremely helpful as I aim for a certain amount of calories burned per week and need to be as accurate as I can. The watch is also user friendly, if you just go over the manual first! I looked the manual up online and knew how to use the watch before it even came. It has functioned perfectly for me both in doors and outside in 20 degree weather with four layers of clothing on. I use a treadmill as well as various DVDs and get consistant readouts each time. Knowing your heart rate while you workout can keep you from working longer than you need to get the results you want. By staying in the zone that you set up before each workout you get more out of your workout. If you are looking for a simple watch that can help you stay on track for your fitness goals then I would recommend the F6. I love this watch and would buy it again.
On: 2008-12-06
I have had this watch for about 1 1/2 years. I just had to send it back for a battery replacement and that worked out fine. I do like the watch, but if I can find a better option, I will take it.
The good:
Easy to use and decent looking. I am too lazy to change watches everyday so I just wear the polar as my everyday watch.
Polar is "the" name in heart rate monitors and the watches are well made.
It tracks your daily workouts and on Mondays it gives you a weekly summary, which is nice.
The not so good:
The calorie count is low. Comparing it to the calorie count on workout machines fitted polar sensors, it is extremely low, usually by about 500 kcals. Compared to others in my spinning class who are using other brand heart rate monitors, it is low by about about 200-300 kcals.
The band discolors with time so the watch face and band are not the same color.
It is hard to read the watch in dusk or dark conditions. The light feature is poor.
It does NOT sync with Mac computers. Polar has been around forever and I would think they would let you sync with a Mac by now. So the feature of being able to track workouts on your computer is non existent for Mac users.
So it is easy to use and does work well, but is not the most accurate in terms of kcals burned.
On: 2008-12-01
This is a solid basic heart rate monitor that functions as advertised. It is adequate for anyone other than world class athletes that need more bells and whistles.
On: 2008-11-30
It works perfectly as it claims to does. Band is pretty comfortable and I have no complains about the watch.
On: 2008-11-30
Ive been working out in a classroom setting the last three months and wanted to know if id been hitting my target heart rate. I noticed several other people in my class had polar HRMs. I went out to the local sports stores to try to find one but all they had were the pink breast cancer ones or the large black mens watches. It was nearly impossible to find this model in the store. I use this HRM for every workout and love to see how hard im working out. I havent had any problem with interference or batteries yet.
On: 2008-11-27
Great product. Data is uploadable to the Polar web site to track the workouts. Very accurate and functional.
On: 2008-11-22
Before it got here I was starting to have buyers remorse. I kept thinking, do I really need this?? I knew I wanted it but need it?
I am so glad I got it and cant believe I didnt follow through sooner.
It worked perfectly. Registered all the information perfectly. I found it incredibly motivating and it really only took me about 15 minutes to figure out how to use it. It was easier than I thought.This one is a no brainer. I am grateful to another reviewer who mentioned it comes with the chest strap, because I didnt find that clear. It is fantastic and worked flawlessly.
I am very happy I purchased this.
UPDATE: A few days in now and I wanted to add that I easily added all my HRM data onto polarpersonaltrainer.com and that was very easy. That is another really useful tool. I just found the send feature under file, and it chirped away into the microphone and uploaded it into my account.
On: 2008-11-12
This is an awesome fitness tool. It is very accurate, easy to use, and comfortable to wear. It syncs with the gym machines so you can see your heart rate on the screen versus the watch...this is very cool for me. It also gives you weekly reports :o) I love it!!
On: 2008-11-11
If you spin, this product is not for you. The display of the heart rate is very small (in relation to the time, stopwatch, other bells and whistles) and you cannot see it in a darkened room unless the backlight is on. You have to hit a button to illuminate with the backlight and it turns off again within seconds.
On: 2008-10-27
This item really does all it says. It keeps an accurate account of your exercise time, calories burned, min and max hr. It also keeps a weekly log that you can upload into free software that is located on Polar website. You can also set it for 3 different degrees of workout based on HR(easy med and hard). I really like it but the only thing I wish it had is an alarm. Otherwise very satisfied with watch and it motivates me to workout at my target HR.
On: 2008-10-14
You cant simply enter what heart rate targets you want - it only gives you ones it makes up on its own. You even must enter what DAY you were born, before you can use it - preventing others from using it without loads of set-up time. It comes with a transmitter and strap you must THROW AWAY when the battery dies. How green! And expensive. If the watch strap breaks, you must BUY A NEW WATCH because the strap is unusual. Many of the features cant be used without additional software and trouble. Polar should be picketed for this unit.
On: 2008-10-06
At first, it was a little difficult to understand how to use the monitor, however, once I determined how to access the additional menus and data on it I have gotten great value from using it in my workouts. It is very useful to get this information while working out. I like the lightweight aspect of the watch. I also thought the price as compared to the features offered was a good deal.
On: 2008-10-06
I bought this product mainly for use in my spinning and weight training classes. I confess that I rarely read directions for anything, and I havent read these. But I intend to. The basic setup is easy, and you can easily find the calories burned, maximum heart rate, heart range, etc. without hassle. BUT there appear to be many more settings that I should really figure out...what is the little "youve got mail" box? And what is that infernal and incredibly irritating beeping? (I solved this mystery by turning off the volume.)
What Im saying is, its pretty easy to set up and you can find basic info. There are some advanced settings that would probably be helpful if I get around to reading the directions.
On the down side, the strap is somewhat awkward. I discovered that if you put the strap on below the sports bra, the strap wanders around and down your torso until your heart rate reads zero. So now I put the sports bra on over it to keep it in place. Seems to work pretty well.
One complaint I have is that it doesnt "talk" very well with the computer on our spinning bikes. This isnt a huge deal to me, but you pretty much have to decide to trust one or the other, because they rarely agree.
The watch itself is rather blah and feels pretty huge on my arm. My only other complaint is that anytime my heart rate jumps signficantly (like going from warmup to sprints), the monitor takes several--and I do mean several--seconds to reboot. Im not sure if this is because its a cheaper model or if thats just the way all monitors are. But Im pretty sure my heart doesnt go from 130 to zero and back to 145 again.
Overall, I think its a decent product and it is worth $100. And yes, I have found that my actual heart rate does surprise me sometimes.
On: 2008-09-22
I purchased the F6 watch for swimming. It works great!!
My husband bought me a higher model of the Polar watch for biking and running a few years ago, that I really like. (I can get obsessed with tracking exercise data.) I started swimming and wanted to keep track of my heart rate, but was afraid to ruin my good watch in the water. (Ive changed the battery in both the watch and chest strap and thought the seal may no longer be water resistant.)
So, I purchased the F6 watch for swimming. It works great!! The chest strap is comfortable under my swim suit. The heart beat monitor is accurate. I havent experienced any issues with the watch data. I did change the settings to not beap if Im above or below the target heart range. The beap was a bit annoying at the gym.
Now, I find that I use the F6 watch more than my original watch. Its smaller and ligher. It also shows the calories burned on the display. My original watch didnt, I had to download the data to see the calories burned.
I havent tried to download the exercise data to the polar site yet. So, I cant comment on that aspect of the F6 watch.
On: 2008-09-13
When I decided on purchasing a heart rate monitoring watch, I had a hard time deciding on which one to get. But after using this watch since I got it, I cant imagine a better all in one product than this. If youre looking for an easy watch to use that has a heart rate monitor, timer, calories burned calculator, and workout summary; this watch is for you! I especially like the pink color and its not too bulky (i was worried it might be too bulky to wear all the time, but its not), i love it! On my running workouts its great to finally know my heart rate and see how many calories Ive burned! Awesome product!
On: 2008-09-10
I have owned my F6 for about a week, and Ive really enjoyed testing out its features. It has brought a new awareness to my workouts, and I love having the fantastic feedback with the push of a button. I wish I could have given it 5 stars, but there are a few drawbacks:
1. I like the clock feature, but it doesnt display in exercise mode. I read another persons feedback about putting the watch near the chest strap so the clock will display for a second or two, which works ok, but I would still like to see a screen where it could be displayed during exercise.
2. All of the ads I have read say the F6 includes a stopwatch...there is NO stopwatch!! There is a timer, which counts down from a programmed time, which is NOT a stopwatch. This was one of the features I was looking forward to, and Im really bummed not to have it.
3. Polars website is not very user-friendly, and worse, they just made a horrible "upgrade" to their polarpersonaltrainer.com site. One of the F6s selling features was the ability to instantly upload data to the online diary, which was fabulous for a couple of days...until the upgrade. There are many glitches with uploading, and the diary went from fun and informative to cumbersome and frustrating.
Otherwise, Im pretty pleased with the F6...and the chest strap is much more comfortable than Id anticipated.
On: 2008-09-06
This heart monitor works just great. I like that it keeps track of how much exercise you get in a weeks time. The only thing that I dont like is that it is difficult to see in the dark without my glasses as the light makes the numerals green. Other than that, I think it is well worth the money. Strap is really comfortable, dont even know you have it on.
On: 2008-09-02
I ordered this monitor for my personal training clients and they found it easy to use.
On: 2008-08-31
Having used the F6 for 6 weeks, I can say that this is a fantastic device. Ive never tried anything to make my workouts more efficient or improve the time spent in the "heart rate zone" but have really noticed a difference in the quality of my workouts and the improvement in my stamina since starting its use.
While I originally bought the device for something that can accurately estimate calories burned and time spent exercising, the feature I value the most is the heart rate alarms. A slow repetitive beep goes off when my heart rate goes below the 65%ile mark, likewise, a quick beep alarm goes off when my heart rate exceeds goal at 80%. At the end of the work out, Im able to review Time Spent In Zone (65-80%), calories burned, time spent, max and avg heart rate.
The device works by a "transmitter" worn around the front of the chest to pick up the heart rate and a "receiver" which is the wrist-watch unit. I have heard other products have trouble picking up signal or getting interference. So far, I have had no trouble at all. The transmitter requires some moisture to pick up your heart rate. At the start of the workout, I wet the back of the transmitter and then secure it to my chest.
As I like to vary my workouts, I was concerned about using the F6 in water, or, having it work well on activities other than running. Rest assured, I swim laps without a problem with the F6. It is waterproof, although the manual recommends not hitting buttons while the device is submerged/wet. I havent had any problem with that. I love the device biking. It obviously does not have the features of a bike-mounted monitor but I combine it with online fitness mapping like "Mapmyride" .com or "Mapmyrun" .com and Im able to calculate pace from that.
I do echo the complaint that there is no easy way to communicate results from the watch to the computer or the web. The watch is supposed to "chirp" and a microphone on the computer should be able to "read" those chirps and transmit that into data... I havent bothered. Each workout generates maximally ten data points and so far, I have just manually typed them over when I log my rides at Mapmyride.
On: 2008-08-26
Looking to get in shape I researched many of the brand of heart rate monitors out there. Polar seemed to have the best overall reviews so I decided to try the F6. The price might seem a bit high but it should last a considerable while. It is really easy to program and to start your workout, you just press one button and you are off! I havent explored all of the features yet but so far I am very happy. The only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is that sometimes when Im on a machine it will flash and incorrect heart rate. But it generally fixes itself within a minute. This is also great for gym classes or working out on your own to see how many calories you burn
On: 2008-08-26
This heart rate monitor is working great for me for biking. My wife also has one and even when we are exercising close together, the monitors do not interfere with each other. The only problem (or advantage depending on how you look at it) is that it tends to keep me stongly in the pulse rate zone I set for my exercise session - I tend not to exceed or drop below the target heart rate for more than a few seconds with it on. It beeps slowly if you are going too slow, and quickly if you are going too fast, but you can shut this beep off if you want to get an average pulse, but not be constantly reminded how you are doing. I would have like a bit clearer information on how the "own zone" setting works in the manual, but otherwise no complaints
On: 2008-08-13
I love this heart monitor. It is precise and never gives me problems. Since I started using it a month ago I have lost almost 10 lbs.
On: 2008-08-13
Love this heart rate monitor. Easy to use and logs my workouts. Just wish I could see the time while I was working out. It is a watch, but I can only see the time when it is not in exercise mode. But that might just be me not knowing how to use it.
On: 2008-08-04
Purchased the Polar F6 heart rate monitor watch for my wife to use during her Jazzercise class. She has used it for about 3 weeks as of this reporting and finds it very helpful in monitoring her cardiovascular system during her exercise routine. She especially likes the color (Pink Coral; a typical womans preference. Others in the class have another Polar model that is black in color, purchased through the Jazzercise franchise owner, that has less functionality but cost the same to purchase. The delivery process was flawless.
On: 2008-07-28
Received my Polar F6 Mens and Womens Heart Rate Monitor Watchfrom Amazon on July 20th and have been very pleased with it so far. It performs exactly as advertised and I have experienced none of the problems described by a handful of the other owners of this monitor. The plastic chest transmitter is not uncomfortable to wear and I dont think the added cost of the cloth chest transmitter would be necessary for most people. I am a 59 and appreciate the size of the watch face, which I can easily read without having to bring along a pair of reading glasses on my jogs. No problems with Amazon and received my monitor within 5 days of my purchase.
On: 2008-07-18
I love love love this heart rate monitor and I love how it calculates your calories burned too!! It has so many great features!!! I would defintley say it is worth the money!!
On: 2008-07-08
This Polar F6 has been an asset to my fitness routine. I am able to complete my goals without guess-work. I know when I am in my target heartrate and can keep up with my weekly goals. Its a great tool.
On: 2008-07-01
I wanted to purchase a watch that also had a heart rate monitor. What I got was a heart rate monitor. The item is definetly misnamed. Returned immediately.
On: 2008-06-29
Works as advertised. Able to calculate my calories and it is not at all similar to what is on the actual work out machine. Being a female, it is somewhat more difficult for me than my boyfriend in getting the initial heart rate to read, but when it does, it never is lost through the entire work out.
On: 2008-06-27
This is a good solid product, works as advertised and has really helped me in monitoring the calories I burn during my workout so no guessing games anymore.
On: 2008-06-15
My girlfriend bought me the Mens F6 for my birthday, so I returned the favor for her birthday. These things are great. We both really like being able to monitor our heart rates, and we like the way it calculates calories burned during the workout. She also makes use of the log that tracks your workouts for the whole week.
The coded transmitters are a nice feature so we can run together while each using our own F6. She had a little trouble with hers at first, but I think she just needed to adjust the position of the sensor.
My only negative comment is that the heart rate zones are more annoying than helpful. We both had to set the zone to "intense" and turn off the alarm feature that beeps at you when youre out of the zone.
On: 2008-06-14
I love having this! It makes me workout harder to get to where I need to be. There are minor issues, but not bad enough to where Id stop using this and start complaining. Ya, if I get really sweaty, my band starts slipping down, but it still monitors my rate. Overall, I think this is a great product to own. There are still many features I havent figured out yet, and Im having issues getting my info online, only because my computer doesnt have a built in microphone to transfer data.
The only reason I didnt give it 5 stars is for simple things, like the slipping of the band, and the fact that its hard to get the info online.
On: 2008-06-11
It amazes me how often the device will lose the signal and drop to zero while im doing something as light as walking the dog. Or how it can drop from 153bpm to 40 while Im running full stride. I think having this monitor has made my workout more difficult and frustrating because it doesnt want to work correctly. Had a good day with it once or twice but all in all if I could return it I would.
On: 2008-06-09
I now know what my heart rate is. I know how hard to work out, when I can take it easy, when to push myself harder. I can store up to a weeks worth of workouts. It stores, calories burned, HR %, HR during workout, MAX and MIN HR, TOTAL time worked out
Overall this watch is awesome. The only thing I wish it did was display what time it was up in the corner along with your current workout. It doesnt. The band is a bit uncomfortable after about an hour worth of running/jogging but nothing bothersome.
On: 2008-06-05
I really like this item...the only problem is that it doesnt always get your heart rate...the band that goes around your chest slips a lot...especially if you are working up a good sweat.
On: 2008-06-05
Objective portion:
- The documentation is poor. This is not a serious issue, as we are all used to fiddling with digital watches to make them work.
Subjective portion:
- Unacceptably poor results. The harder I work out, the worse it gets. I am excersizing to lose weight by riding a non-stationary bicycle. I have worn the monitor during each of my last six workouts. On only one of those days did I experience an acceptable performance. Today was the worst. I rode in the T2 (hard) zone for 70 minutes. I am certain I was either within or above my target zone for 60 minutes. At the end of that session, the watch recorded a "time in zone" of one minute and four seconds. For most of the session the watch was showing a silly rate, like 40 or 30. At other times when my HR goes over the upper limit, the watch seems to get latched there for some time, then drop to 00, also for an extended time.
I have read, followed and reread all the instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer. I have also read all the reviews in this forum. While it might not be fair to say this is a bad product, it clearly is not compatible with my body, excercise program and environment.
I cannot tell if the problem results from poor contact with my HR or a problem in the radio transmission. Suggested improvements:
1. a diagnostic mode that could clarify between transmission and detection errors;
2. a user replacable battery (doh!);
3. make it easy to switch between several preset HR limits in a single session.
The watch is going back for a refund. I am now looking at a very limited selection of wired monitors.
On: 2008-06-01
Ive been using one of these for years and just bought one for my wife. The encoded transmitters allow us to run next to each other or use it in a health club without interference. Polar works with most club equipment such as treadmills and bikes. The watch is easy to set up with your age, weight, etc. Easy to review your workout. Shows average heart rate and max, total time and calories burned. Can set up heart rate zones for light, moderate, and hard workouts. I dont really use that feature nor do I use the Own Zone feature to automatically calculate zones. I just strap it on and go.
On: 2008-05-30
I have had the F6 for just over a year. I love it & use it all the time. Ive also purchased them as gifts for others & recommended the product to many whove since become customers.
That said, after a year, my monitor needed a new battery, which you cant replace yourself. I sent it to Polar via 2-day express mail on April 23, 2008 and as of May 30, 2008, they still havent returned it.
To make matters worse, they are no longer responding to my "where is it?" inquiries.
The bottom line is if you buy this product, youre going to want to use it and, in my opinion, going without it for 5 weeks (or more given that I still dont have it back) makes me want to buy a brand for which I can switch my own battery.
On: 2008-05-30
I use it for my cardio. It makes me push myself. I keep changing the setting on the machines at the gym to make it more difficult for myself and to keep burning calories. After I came home from studying abroad in Paris this helped me lose the extra weight I had gained.
On: 2008-05-27
I love this heart rate monitor. I have been trying to lose weight and have been keeping track of my meals and exercise. This made me realize I was under calculating my calories burned during exercise. It is an easy product to use. LOVE IT!
On: 2008-05-24
I enjoy having a heart rate monitor while I exercise. I esp love the fact it saves my past exercises for a week and "counts calories". I exercise in an environment where others are wearing same monitors, and have never had a problem with my monitor picking up others transmitters.
It seems to have a lot of features, but frankly, I have not been able to get the most out of them yet as it is not very intuitive to use. I thought it was funny that my local fitness establishment was offering Polar HR Monitor tutorials until I actually tried to do more with mine than just track one exercise. You will have to get intimate with the user manual if you want to get your moneys worth.
My biggest disappointment was with the quality of the materials. The user manual states that the clasp is made of stainless steel and the band is polyurethane. Within a week of use, I noticed that the clasp metal rubbing a stain on the band. It will be more noticeable on any light colored bands.
Last point, this monitor will be bulky on a small-framed womans wrist.
On: 2008-05-11
I have been using this heart rate monitor for two weeks and Im extremely happy with it. It was very easy to do the initial set up by reading the manual beforehand. I had another polar HRM before this one (one of their more basic models) but I wanted to get one that was coded and tracked calories. I do a lot of group classes so the interference with other HRMs was very annoying. However, if interference isnt an issue for you but you want to track calories I recommend you get the F4 which is basically the same thing but without the coding and a lower price. Ive used most of the features on this HRM already and I love them. I havent had any difficulty understanding how to use any of the features. It is also a very nice-looking HRM (I got the black one). the numbers might be a little small for people with eyesight problems. The fact that it has a backlight is great. One of the things I like the most is that on Sunday night the HRM collects all the data and makes a summary for you. So that night you see a little envelope on your screen and when you click on it it shows you the weeks summary. I thought that was excellent. I havent used the uplink feature or tried the webpage so I cant comment on that. I recommend this HRM to anyone who exercises regularly and is interested in knowing how many calories are burned weekly and daily. It has really improved my performance.
On: 2008-05-04
Takes a little getting used to, but it works great. Helping to keep my overachiever husband with a heart problem safer while working out.
On: 2008-04-26
I love my cute HRM. It has really changed the way I work out. At the beginning it was discouraging to see that I am actually burning less than the gym machines say, but now I know the truth.
On: 2008-04-26
Its very useful, especially for people that had had a heart attack.The only thing I didnt like was the size of the nombers For me its difficult to read without my glasses
On: 2008-04-26
This is my third polar watch. This particular watches screen went blank in 4 months after purchase. I am SO DISAPPOINTED in this watch. I wont send it back to get charged around 75 bucks and I wont buy another polar branded watch.
On: 2008-04-22
I love this watch.
First, its pink. Yes, but how about a big bonus? You can download all sorts of graphics to personalize it. I have a Hello Kitty graphic on mine. Its awesome. I think if you have Windows and can download the Polar program you can also create your own custom graphics.
No cable mess to upload or download files to/from it. It works using a modem-like beeping. You can download your files using free & open source software, in Linux. This is a big bonus for me because I dont have Windows.
I have yet to find a cardio machine or brand of cardio machine that it doesnt just work with. Its great to not have to stress about what machines are available.
On: 2008-04-20
Good look, good work, just had to shut the sound down not to annoy everybody in the gym !
On: 2008-04-12
Heart monitors have been part of my workouts for some time. This Polar F6 has served me well in the few short weeks I have had it.
Im not the sharpest tack in the box with computers, and instructions; however, I have been able over a period of time to get the features actualized that I want and need.
From my usage I recommend it highly.
Mr.EB
On: 2008-04-04
I have had the F6 for about a month and a half now. Its working perfectly. I highly recommend this product for the average user like myself. The ownzone feature gives you your target heart rate while working out. It continuiously / instantly tells you your heart rate. No buttons to push, just look down at the watch and you see your current heart rate. It tells how many minutes you have been working out. My running lap times have already improved from using the F6. It also acts as a regular wrist watch to tell the current time as well. Very handy. The cost is a bit high, but as much as I run, I feel that getting the F6 is well worth the price.
*PS. a helpful tip*
Get the F6 to tell your heart rate. Use the ipod nano with the nike plus system to calculate miles, minutes per mile, how many minutes you have ran, calories burned, your best mile ran, past workout comparisions, and you will have a complete electronic training system. You will see your laptimes and distances improve more quickly. This is my personal experence.
On: 2008-04-03
This is my second Polar heart monitor. The first I purchased almost 8 years ago and is now an obsolete model, which is why I started looking for a new one. For the most part, Im really like this watch. They have added some great new features, like the 12 day history of your exercises and the weekly totals that you get every week. I also like the easier setting of the heart range. You can either customize it, or pick an level of easy, medium, hard (I think that is the correct wording on the watch).
The one thing that I dont like quite as much in this watch, as in my old one is getting to the user profile information. It is a lot more complicated and not quite as easy to update in this watch. But overall, Im very pleased with my choice and Ive gotten the hang of using it now.
On: 2008-04-03
This watch is great - a real motivation. Shows calories and heart rate (obviously :). One thing I would like to improve is showing of the lowest hear rate during a training - right now it just shows average and highest.
Cheers!
On: 2008-04-03
Im really happy with my Polar F6 and I use it all the time. Im so happy that I bought it! It arrived on time! :-D
On: 2008-03-26
This monitor is great. It keeps track of your HR and determines your calories burned. Awesome!
On: 2008-03-17
Ive only been using my Polar F6 for 2 weeks now, and its working spot on. I have ZERO problems with it picking up my heart rate, and the features are great and easy to use.
Pros: Accurate (better calorie counter than those on machines-obviously), easy to use, using online support to track results is great and easy, heart rate monitor works perfect.
Cons: Only one.......this watch is ugly. No beans about it-its great for working out, but I wouldnt wear it outside the gym.
On: 2008-03-03
Im wearing it as Im writing this review! Its just amazing how much LESS calories you are actually burning at the gym if you guide yourself by the machines and the standard calculations it gives you; it was an eye opener for me. The other thing I was amazed to discover was how much more calories I burn by actually walking instead of using the treadmill. interesting stuff. This watch is easy to use, I recommend it 100%. =)
On: 2008-02-28
I have been using the F6 for a few weeks now. Its very accurate and trouble free. Provides weekly stats of intensity, calories burned, time spent, high and low heart rates. You can program the F6 for different intensity levels or let it automatically determine your exercise zone based upon sex, age, height and weight that you enter. A fine product. I highly recommend it. Free delivery; arrived in 2 days. Larry, Albany, NY.
On: 2008-02-28
This is an awesome HRM. I Love it. I Got the Pink One. It works great and even gives out a report at End, showing calories Burned etc. I never realized just How "OFF" the calorie counter was On My treadmill. This HRM, allows you to enter Height weight etc so You get accurate totals. I LOVE IT. It also beeps if You go below the target heart Rate or Above it so it keeps You in "THE ZONE". Good Purchase Im Glad I got this!
On: 2008-02-28
I like this product very much. It is very accurate and reliable. I use it in aerobics class to stay in my target heart rate zone. It keeps me from pushing myself to far, which I found out I did a lot. It makes my work out more enjoyable.
On: 2008-02-28
This is an amazing watch for exercising. I use it for Jazzercise and I can see how many calories I burn. This is normaley between 400 and 800 cal. a class. I can use this watch for walking, cleaning, I am so excited I got it. The pink one looks best on all skin colors. The heart rate monitor on it is so precise that I try not to go out of my heart rate range. It beeps whenever you do or you can turn that off.
On: 2008-02-18
This is the perfect product for taking your workouts to the next level. It is well designed and easy to use. I have had no problems using any of the basic and extended features. I really like the diary feature that allows me to review my weeks workout results. The F6 showed me just how hard I wasnt working out before.
The only con that I can think of is that you have to replace the entire transmitter after the battery goes in it. This is something that they should address.
On: 2008-02-16
I have a weak heart and my doctor says exercise with a heart rate of resting + 25% is the way to strengthen the heart muscle. I bought the Polar F6 so that I could monitor -- not only at the gym - but when I walk as well. The calorie count does not match the machines at the gym - but who knows which is correct. The heart monitor works beautifully and I can read it without my reading glasses. The chest strap stays put and is comfortable - I hardly know I have it on. I also love the weekly Diary feature. This was an excellent purchase!
On: 2008-02-13
This is a great item to have if youre serious about working out and getting the most out of an aerobic activity.
The Polar F6 is easy to program, easy to use, and easy to read. You have the flexibility to follow the standard formula to program your heart rate "zone" or customize it. It even archives your workouts and tracks how many calories you burned in a given time period.
But the best thing is it keeps you alerted if your heart rate is out of your "zone" - either to pick up the pace or ease up - and that mazimizes the full benefits of an aerobic workout.
The lighted display is helpful for those early-morning jogs. And another nice feature is getting the time when youre in "exercise" mode: just hold the wrist receiver to your chest and the time appears on the display, and even illuminates automatically. Pretty cool!
On: 2008-02-12
I purchased the F6 in Pink Coral nearly two years ago and have loved its performance through it all. I exercise often, alternating between spinning and exercise classes and long distance running. The F6 stuck with me through the training for and running of 2 marathons and kept on working without missing a beat (no pun intended!). Sadly, six months ago, it simply gave out and the battery in both the watch and chest strap died. Upon sending it back to Polar for repair, I quickly realized it was more cost efficient to simply purchase another, rather than spending over $100 on the repair of both. I was impressed at how long it lasted through my use and most of all, how well it performed through my many workouts. I recently upgraded to the Polar F11 that has the Wear Link chest strap that allows for the user to upgrade the battery themselves and is a bit more comfortable than the standard strap that comes with the F6.
Over time, as was mentioned in other reviews, the color of the watch strap (which is a very pale shade of pink) did yellow and show some discoloration. This didnt especially bother me, as sweat and overall use tends to do that to anything strapped to you during exercise. I just saw it as the normal wear and tear of the unit. I purchased the F11 in a darker color to avoid this. Overall, this is a great HRM for a novice or moderate exerciser. More expensive models offer a few more programs than the F6; I would recommend only paying for the features you will truly use and need.
On: 2008-02-12
Ive had the Polar F6 for 6 months. It is flawless. A heart rate monitor brings discipline to a workout. It provides a metric to attach to your running or power walking. Your workout achieves tighter control and higher efficiency. You wont over-do it or under-do it. You wont get too tired, nor will you get away with too little exercise.
The watch provides more than enough information for my use. It is highly responsive. If I drop the speed on my treadmill 0.2 miles per hour, the heart rate rapidly drops a couple beats. I can allow my heart rate to decrease to a pre-defined rate, then speed up my act in order to get the rate back up. In that way I control the workout and stay within limits.
A heart rate monitor is all about discipline and control and the Polar F6 is excellent to use.
On: 2008-02-10
I like it, but the HR bounces around. How do I go from 110 to 80 in 2 seconds? But maybe I really am? But otherwise it is great. Do need to wet it when you first put it on. If that doesnt work it is because your skin isnt salty enough. Salt water is required for it to conduct electricity. Try using salt water if you have this problem.
On: 2008-02-09
Good product, does what it is supposed to do. May not be 100% accurate, but close enough given the price.
On: 2008-02-09
This watch is making the difference in me working out alittle and working out alot. Not only does it give you your heart rate, after putting in your settings of weight, age, resting heart rate plus others, it keeps up with you max and min rate and the % of your max heart rate. It lets you know if you reached your target rate and warns you when you go over or under your target range by beeping, and gives you your average rate also. I think this is the OWNZONE feature.
You can upload your workouts to the polar website and keep a log of how many workouts you have done during a week or month, calories you burn and even the different types of exercises you have done. It motivates me to able to see if I have burned the amount of calories I need to in a week. I also know which exercise gives me the better workout, be it rowing, circuit training, walking, cycling or even hoop dancing.
I have also found a website, podfitness.com, that will mix your music with the voice of your choosen fitness trainer that will design a cardio workout for you to use with this monitor. You download the recording to your computer and mp3 player and it paces you thru your workout where ever you choose to workout. Its great!
Im really glad that I got this particular model. It will surely help me to reach my goals of losing weight and improving my cholesterol levels. If you are looking for something to give you a push to exercise, and you are independent like me, this may be the thing for you.
On: 2008-02-08
Not at good as the original polar watch. No large button on front and not the best looking. Own Zone a pain to use. The display a little harder to see. But still a nice heart rate monitor - I use it when swimming. I would suggest buying the Garmin 405 instead - only $200 and includes a full GPS to provide pace, distance, calories, heart rate etc.
On: 2008-01-27
I bought this Graphite Black, Polar F6 heart-rate monitor to replace my old Polar A5. Karstadt Sporthaus München charged me Euro 99.95 (equivalent to Indian Rs. 5,780).
It looks and feels great.
I created a personalized logo with the downloaded tool: Polar UpLink Tool v1.60.
To upload, in the Time of Day display of the watch, you have to get to SETTINGS mode.
Had to experiment a little with the audio-based uplink communication.
It wouldnt work with the laptop built-in speakers, but then the manual said so.
It wouldnt work with my Plantronics .Audio 625 USB Stereo Headset.
Finally I exported the .wav file to my Nokia N82 mobile phone and played the modulated signal through its onboard loudspeakers.
The upload to the watch started. Its display showed a blinking UpLink. Finally the sound stopped and the watch showed, UpLink OK with a beep. Back in the Time of Day display, holding in the upper right button activated my new logo.
Happy. :)
Ram
On: 2008-01-27
I used to have a cheapo HRM from Sportsbeat that I bought for $25. It was very reliable - it picked up my heart rate within 30 seconds, and almost never went wild with it. When I lost it I decided to splurge on a Polar. As an example of what I dislike about this model, I went running yesterday. I moistened the transmitter, positioned it correctly and headed out. IT took a few minutes, not just seconds, to pick up anything at all. Then for the longest time it read "71" - though I knew from my own experience my HR was at least 145 or more. Then it went to 207. (I dont think so!) It was all over the place for at least 20 minutes, before settling down. This is my experience almost every time.
By the way, be more careful than I was about comparing features - this model does not (as far as I can tell!) have any kind of lap timer or other features useful for running. I didnt deduct stars for that as it was my error. But I do deduct stars for the incomplete and confusing manual - Im very good at gadgets, usually, but I havent been able to use any of the features on this, and cant even tell what half of them are supposed to do! If I had it to do over I would not get this model.
I gave it three stars because: the watch is attractive (I got the green one) - though when I bend my wrist it seems to press the button unintentionally, and the transmitter works fine, eventually, on machines at the gym. But maybe Im being generous - if I could Id give it 2 1/2.
On: 2008-01-18
This was an update from my old Polar watch. This watch has many great functions if you like to keep track of your workouts. I am still learning all that it does. If you are a runner you may want one of the other Polar watches made just for the runners out there.
On: 2008-01-17
I got this a week ago and have been exercising every day with it. I love that it beeps at me to work harder or take it easier and it keeps me exercising longer because I need to reach a round number of calories, lol.
But what I found the most fascinating is that it uses sound to transmit the data about my exercises to my computer that it then uploads to the polar website. Thats just plain neat!
I only gave it four stars though because I hate the transmitter. It may be because Im really tiny, but the darn thing keeps falling off! Only like once per workout, but its still annoying. Looks like Ill have to invest in a different one *sigh*
On: 2008-01-16
Polar F6 Heart Rate Monitor Watch
I have owned a Polar F6 for five years with no real problems. I recently bought two more (for my two sons)for presents.I have become so use to them, that I feel slightly lost using the treadmill without it.
I do think it would be usefull if the real time stayed on during the
workout. It does show the amount of workout time used but I tend to forget about the real time and sometimes stay in the gym to long and late for appointments.
On: 2008-01-14
Polar F6 Heart Rate Monitor Watch
I purchased two of these; one for each of my two daughters.
They are both in late 20s and working out is part of their lives.
They are learning more about themselves and really love the whole idea.
My younger sister told me her grade school has the kids put on these before gym class. Item came quickly and works wonderfully. So much you can do with this item ! Time reading the pamphlet is suggested so you get the most this device has to offer. Thank you! Mrs. Valdovinos
On: 2008-01-14
I absolutely love it! I really like that it works with the machines in the gym. It tracks calories burned and even gives you weekly reports on how many calories you have burned and what your average heart rate was! It is so easy to use. I have already recommended it to 3 friends!
On: 2008-01-01
Ive had a basic polar heart rate monitor for years now, and upgraded to this one for Christmas. While Im still playing around with the various functionalities, Im very impressed by what this small watch/monitor can pack into such a small package. The only thing thats missing is an easy way to toggle between your workout/heart rate/calories burned information and the actual time (something I like during my longer activities like hiking and ski touring). Plus the watch is attractive and the lcd numbers look more stylish than the average digital watch numerals.
On: 2007-12-31
This is my second Polar watch and I love the product. Gym machines over estimate the number of calories burned and I wanted something more accurate.
No need in thinking I burned 500 calories when I only burned 390.
If you are serious about losing and keeping off the weight, this is a worthwhile investment. Dont even think about purchasing a different brand. Polar is the gold standard.
They have many models to choose from. You will be satisfied.
On: 2007-12-29
I received this monitor as a gift, and am pleased with my use of it for monitoring my heart rate during cardiac rehab exercise. For that purpose it has performed quite satisfactorily. The only reason that I gave it only four stars is that I find the advanced functions a bit overwhelming, with very little explanation provided in the users manual. This is particularly true for the PC communications functions, which I have yet to investigate and/or attempt. When I have had more experience with the device, I feel that I will be equally satisfied, but I would like more detail in the user manual.
On: 2007-12-22
Ive been using this for several months now. I think it is very difficult to see the labels for the side push buttons to know what they are. The "fancy" decorative pattern hides the descriptions. Admittedly, after you use it for several months, you remember what they are, but initially it is a pain.
I have a great deal of difficulty getting the thing to register my heart rate at the beginning of my workout. I dont sweat a lot and this makes the "connection" with my chest lacking. Even when I wet the sensor areas as the instructions tell you, it still doesnt do the trick. Ive adjusted the strap as tight as possible (without constricting my breathing). I wind up exercising for 10 minutes before it registers, therefore, my exercise totals are off.
On the plus side, it seems accurate once it starts to monitor. It is very helpful to keep your heart rate at the desired MPH%.
On: 2007-12-20
I received this for my b-day almost 2 years ago. I absolutely love this monitor and find that if I forget it at home, I am almost lost without it.
On: 2007-12-17
This product does exactly what I wanted. I wanted an accurate counting of my calories and it does just that. It is easy to set up (the date and month are backwards which threw me off at first but I figured it out), easy to work, and easy to read results. I have only had it a month but I am happy with it. If you read the maintenance of the monitor it is a little strict about keeping it in a cool place and not storing it in a towel or non-breathable thing like a sports bag (which is what I wanted to do) but it is the same size as a watch and has the same functions as a watch so the days I go to the gym I just wear it instead of keeping it in my sports bag.
On: 2007-12-03
Excellent watch, does everything you need to monitor your training. Also, it size suitable for men; not small at all.
On: 2007-11-29
I cant exercise without this thing. Ive had it for over a year now and the batteries have not died yet. It tracks all calorie expenditure and heart rate activity. It not only gives you your high and low heart rates during an exercise, but the average you were at for the duration as well. Before I got this HRM, I didnt realize how off I was on my exercises. I wasnt exerting myself enough. This thing tracks where you are at no matter how you feel and tells you if you need to increase or decrease your intensity. I havent had a problem with it and Ive dropped it several times on accident. Its waterproof so you can soap it up and wash your sweat off of it. I love this thing! Cant say enough about it.
On: 2007-11-20
I am glad to buy it because I found the functions required for my personal training. So, I recomend it to everybody which are going to begin to taking control of heart rate.
On: 2007-11-09
I regularly have problems getting inaccurate signal. I can be in a full run on the tread mill and it will tell me my heart is at 70 bpm. My real hear rate is between 140 and 160. Often after I move the watch to my chest to check the time, the watch will pick up the right signal but then will switch back to the inaccurate signal. I may be getting inference from cell phone or some other source. I think the watchs functionality is limited and the interface is poor. However, it usually achieves my main goal of monitoring my heart rate without holding on to the sensors on the machine. I like that it calculates my calories for the total work out.
On: 2007-10-31
Seems to be built well. Yes, its a little difficult to set up (thats why I took one star off). Ive been using it for a few weeks and works just fine. Does what it says it will do!
On: 2007-10-15
This was a birthday gift to my husband, is the first time he has one of this watch and is really happy. He just uses it for heart rate and calories, the belt is comfortable and the numbers are big, so he doesnt need glasses to see them.
On: 2007-10-11
Polar heart rate monitors were recommended very highly by the trainers at my gym. After doing a significant amount of internet research on heart rate monitors I decided to purchase the Polar F6. This HRM has balanced functionality and price.
Pros: The watch is comfortable, natively works with almost all the machines at the gym, easy to read when jogging, menu system is simple. It is nice to be able to see the workout stats at the end of the week. You can set your own heart rate zones or use the pre-programmed versions.
Cons: Oftentimes I have to moisten my skin under the strap to get the sensor to start. After only a month there is some fraying on the strap.
Overall I would recommend this watch to anybody looking for a fairly cheap and accurate heart rate monitor. I have already purchased the female version (slightly smaller and pink) for my wife and she hasnt had any complaints yet.
On: 2007-10-03
I bought this watch about 6 weeks ago. I am glad I spent the extra money to get a Polar.
This watch is easy to use - the navigation is intuitive. I have never used a heart rate monitor before, but this watch was easy to figure out. The feedback truly helps me get a better workout.
I did have some problems with the monitor giving sporadic readings (super high and super low when I felt fine), but I learned from the Polar website that I have to thoroughly moisten the electrodes before putting it on. Havent had problems since I figured this out.
It is super cool to upload my workouts to the polarpersonaltrainer website and track my progress.
I am not crazy about the pink, but I have actually received compliments on this watch.
Highly recommend!
On: 2007-10-01
it works well but its kinda troublesome to keep the belt wet if you simply want to monitor how your heart works without running and sweating.
On: 2007-09-27
I have had this hrm now for about a month and love it. I havent had any problems with it at all. I had never used one before and it was very easy to program. I would buy it again and just sent a link for my sister to look at it to buy.
On: 2007-09-23
I bought this watch as a backup for my other Polar (625SX) when I sent that one in for maintenance. I love it. Its easy to set up, easy to use and very dependable. While it doesnt have all of the features of the higher-end, more expensive models, it does most of what youll need for basic exercise (stopwatch, heart rate monitor, calories burned, thresholds, etc.). In addition, its got a great feature for computing and displaying your weekly totals. For the price, this is an easy decision for the beginner who wants professional-quality equipment or the seasoned cross-trainer whos looking for a backup unit.
On: 2007-09-19
So, I purchased the F6 in October of 2006. I use it for cycling and on aerobic machines and it really works great. No complaints about performanace at all and it does a nice job of tracking exercise. I paid $99.95 for the product, which seemed sorta high, but I wanted a reliable product from a good name. Well...in August 2007, the transmitter stopped working. Despite the "2 year" warranty stated above, that does not cover batteries, which apparently was the transmitter problem. So, I sent it back to Polar to fix it...but they cant fix it, they can only replace it. All said, it cost me $52 plus my shipping costs to fix. The "replacement" was clearly not new. Im not sure if it was mine, but it definitely was not new. So, in less than a year, Ive had to shell out about $160 and, if the battery dies again six months from now, I guess Ill have to go through this again. I would not but another Polar product.
On: 2007-09-16
Love the features on this watch, but the band is made of a poreous synthetic material that is impossible to clean. I now have a two-toned watch--pretty soft pink casing with a discolored greyish pink band. Does anyone know how to clean this??? Buy this and you will soon be shopping for a basic black replacement.
On: 2007-09-13
I love this watch. it is so nice to know what my heart rate during my workouts. I learned recently that your heart rate has to be within a certain zone in order to burn fat during workouts and this watch definitely lets me know when Im out of target. I love this watch cant say enough. the only issue I have with it is that dirt is more apparent. Other than that, its great!
On: 2007-09-07
I have had 2 Polar hrm in the past and bought 1 hrm that was not a Polar - what a mistake it was so difficult to use. I am so grateful to have another Polar. This is easy to use w/o reading the book! Very reliable.
On: 2007-09-03
This product is a cost effective tool for any dedicated fitness program. It plus the Polar personal trainer web site make it easy to track progress toward goals. Tracking calorie burn is especially effective to push my exertion levels during training sessions. Polars personal trainer web site could be more intuitive.
On: 2007-09-03
Nice piece, menus and instruction a little confusing, will have been almost the same to purchase one model down.
On: 2007-09-01
Nice monitor, lots of functions, works as advertised. The display is not very bright and I have to push the back light button when I need to read it in a dim room. Ive used cheaper models of this brand that had a better display.
On: 2007-09-01
I bought Polar F6 almost 2 months ago. I wanted to increase my exercise intensity but not to over exercise. This devise changed my training. Now I exercise more intensively and feel great. I use the wireless connectivity that F6 has to copy exercises data to Polar site. It helps me to review my progress and plan next step and... to be proud of myself that I make this progress. I lost about 14 lb weight (I have few more pounds to lose). I am not sure if I need more advance model for my need. I do weight resistance training - F6 is great I rest only as long as I need to reduce my heart rate. I do different types of cardiovascular training (bike, elliptic, treadmill). F6 communicates with treadmill and I can see my heart rate on the treadmills control panel.
On: 2007-08-19
What the F6 doesnt do: 1. allow user to time splits. Kind of important if the user is a runner. 2. have a "fitness test" function.
Ergo, its not so great for experienced runners who are training for a race, wanting to really improve, etc.
There are also a few functions that are not so intuitive on the F6. Mine will occasionally switch off the BPM screen to another screen that displays what may or may not be my percentage of time "in the zone." The screen switches at what appears to be random times and maybe I havent read the manual avidly enough...
What the F6 does: 1. it sets up easily and is comfortable to wear. 2. easily stores and retrieves data. 3. Occasionally loses HR signal when the user is wearing a lot of clothes over the chest strap.
Its a good unit for beginners and intermediate exercisers. Perhaps not so great for runners.
On: 2007-08-11
I just bought this heart rate monitor last week, but I absolutely love it! It is easy to use and comfortable to wear. It is a little big, but you get used to wearing it quickly. All the features benefit a beginning exerciser like me and is like having my own personal trainer at my side instructing me. It only took me about 20-30 minutes to do the setup and figure out all the features. I like this so much I bought one for my sister for her birthday.
On: 2007-08-06
My husband just bought this for me as a gift and I absolutely LOVE it!! It has been such a motivator to me to have when working out because it is able to tell me how many calories Ive actually burned instead of me just going off of an estimate on my machine or a book that Ive read. Wish I would have had this gadget a LONG time ago....I would have been a lot skinnier by now if I had one! I also love the feature of being able to download your workouts online so that you can track your progress and see your successes. My sister ran out and bought one shortly after I did and we just bought one for my mom to use. A definite must have if you are wanting to get more out of your workouts and have that instant gratification after working out!!
On: 2007-08-05
The monitor is absolutely simple to use, and the heart rate it indicates is spot on.
On: 2007-08-05
This product is for person who never exercise before and now is working out. Easy to use and do settings. Good product!
On: 2007-08-04
The Polar F6 is the heart rate monitor of choice if you do your cardio workouts at a gym.
This monitor is very simple to setup and use. It will log your average heart rate and maximum heart rate for a given workout, as well as the time you spend "in the zone" (i.e. cardio zone, fat burning zone, or a custom zone that you set up). It will also calculate the calories burned in a workout. In two minutes I set up a custom zone to track my workouts in the 125-150 beats per minute range and to beep if I fall below that.
If you enjoy group spinning (instructor-led stationary bike) classes, this monitor is a must. The chest strap is coded to only display on your monitor. Ive seen people wearing identical Polar F4 monitors (the F4 is the cheaper, "uncoded" version of the F6) and if they sit next to each other on a stationary bike, there is occasional confusion as your neighbors pulse shows up on your monitor! Not so the F6!
One added benefit is that the F6 chest strap will also display on the heart rate readout of any LifeFitness elliptical or treadmill machines automatically...you do not have to hold the sensors on the machine anymore to get a heart readout.
My single complaint about the F6 is about how you set your body weight. If you are on a weight loss program, you want to update your body weight so that your calories burned are correctly calculated. Unfortunately, every time you want to change your weight you have to go through the entire setup screens again and confirm that your sex hasnt changed, your birthday hasnt changed, etc. Its not a showstopper, its just a tad annoying that you have to re-confirm about 12 items just to change your weight.
Overall, I strongly recommend this ugly monitor (and other reviewers are right...this is one ugly piece of technology). It is the ultimate cardio workout watch. Ive used this for three months and Im kicking myself for not buying this earlier.
On: 2007-07-13
Polar makes great heart rate monitors. The chest strap is basically the same for all models, from the lowest to the upper range. Its the watch/receiver part that makes the difference. Ive found them to be very accurate in terms of tracking heart rate. This one has a nice feature that allows you to bring it close to the chest strap to toggle the display from heart rate, to elapsed workout time, to the actual time.
As long as you read the manual, and figure out how to cover the basics of setup and use, you should have no problems using the T31 as an excellent addition to your workout routine.
For some solid foundation & some good workouts revolving around the use of a heart rate monitor, get "Slow Burn" by Stuart Millman. His mentor/guru is Phil Maffettone, who has two great books, "The Maffettone Method," and "Fix Your Feet," both highly revolutionary and groundbreaking in terms of fitness. These books could change your life, together with your new heart rate monitor, as they did mine.
On: 2007-07-01
I originally purchased a Suunto T1 and had to send it back - too complicated, lousy manual and no customer service from the company (the U.S. division was taking the day off for a European holiday and no one was there to help me set it up). I was really discouraged and my husband suggested I take a look at the F4 and F6. I settled on the F6 because of the size and the many features. It was much easier to set up than the Suunto and I think the pink is just adorable. Its easy enough for even a technophobe like me to use, light weight on my wrist and the chest strap is small enough that it doesnt dig into me the way the Suunto did. Overall, I think there are a lot of good features on this monitor. I havent used it that much (only got it last week) but so far its a 5 star purchase.
On: 2007-06-27
I purchased this item two months ago and Im loving it. I am a moderate exerciser and this monitor gives me all of the information I need to maximize my workouts. The calorie expenditure feature is great. The watch and chest strap are comfortable. The directions are easy to follow and made for an easy setup. I havent had any problems. And unlike another reviewer noted, I dont think this watch is for men only. It can be used by men or women.
On: 2007-06-20
I bought this HRM about a month ago and absolutely love it. The only thing that I dont like about this HRM is that the watch stripe gets dirty really fast. I tried to clean it with different staff, but it doesnt help. If anyone knows how I can clean it, please let me know. Thanks!
On: 2007-06-12
Thanks for the great service and ease of both purchase and delivery. My heart monitor came right away, just in time for my long distance bike training! CMB
On: 2007-06-08
This is very cute, very easy to set-up and very easy to read! I love it.
On: 2007-05-27
This is my third polar and probably last. Bought this one in July 06 and it got condensation under the face and then died. Disappointing for having it only 9-10 months. I rarely used it for water sports and it did this after working out on a hot, sunny day. The same thing happened on the other two.
On: 2007-05-24
The heart rate is good and special for my wife. Is very beatiful and woman style.
On: 2007-05-24
Ive used this monitor for a few weeks now. Ive had polar HR monitors in the past (many years ago) and this one is definitely the best that Ive used. The best feature to me was the ease of set up and use. I read the manual but didnt need to get started with the basics. It also has a number of features that I didnt expect (being able to load your data to a pc via their website services). The color is a bit odd -but better than black. It fits my wrist with out having a lot of extra wrist strap flapping around. Im very pleased with the unit so far.
On: 2007-05-20
The number on the monitor jumps around a lot. I am not sure if I am using it wrong, or what.
On: 2007-05-15
I really like this HRM and recommend it. It has improved my exercise sessions enormously. The watch is comfortable, as is the chest strap.
On: 2007-05-15
A book I read recommended using an hrm (Younger Next Year for Women). I wish it were cheaper and had different colors, but I love using an hrm to exercise. Directions were easy to follow to set up and the strap fits comfortably. There may be other bells and whistles that I will want in the future, but for now this is great. I only use the actual hrm and then look at the calories once Im done and cry because of the inverse relationship between time and calorie intake/expenditure, but hey, thats my problem!
On: 2007-05-12
I found it sometimes unreliable at the high end of my running. I get my heart over 170 and it incorrectly shows the HR dropping drastically. Seems to be a problem with the contact with the chest, and either tightening the elastic band or pumping my arms less seems to help with this. Overall, an accurate, easy to use, heart rate monitor without a lot of fancy features. Excellent for the price.
On: 2007-05-12
Monitor received was identical to item ordered. It fit very well with minimal adjustment. The monitor performed as advertised and set up instructions were easy to follow.
On: 2007-05-07
Polar did make a better watch...I am talking about the functions and display options. You can read 3 things at once (Calories, timer, HR).
It should be sold with the other chest band.
On: 2007-05-03
Albeit a very good HRM that does very well its primary job (to monitor heart rate), I was quite disappointed with the count down timer resolution. It can count to at most a minute boundary. No way to set it to, for example, 130". I would buy it anyway, even if I knew that. I only think that Polar website could be clear about that.
The software (website, actually) is pretty much useless.
On: 2007-04-17
Ive been using this for about a month and it has worked out great! I feel good when Im done exercising when I wear this so my HR doesnt go to high. I can get a good sweat going but dont feel like Im dying when I get off the treadmill.
On: 2007-04-17
I ordered this heart rate monitor on Thursday night and it arrived on Monday, so first of all, I couldnt be more happy with the speed of the delivery!
Second, I have been working out at a gym regularly, with a trainer for approximately 1 year. While I can tell Ive increased in strength, the weight just isnt coming off. A friend of mine recommended buying a HRM, and owned a polar brand herself. I did a bit of research and settled on the F6. I used it for the first time this morning and could not be happier! Not only did I learn that my workouts were not as effective as I thought (the calories burned calculation on the elliptical machine was off by more than 100 calories in a 30 minute cardio workout!) I was also able to accurately determine by my heartrate how many calories I burned while doing my 30 minutes of strength training! Previously this was a guessing game - and if youre like me, youre overestimating your guess just like I was.
This monitor was super easy to get started with. I find the strap comfortable and was not even aware of it throughout my workout. I have a wider rib cage - about 46 inches, so I was concerned about the strap being too tight but there was plenty of room!
I would strongly recommend anyone looking at getting a HRM to consider and purchase this monitor. Take a step to get control over your workouts!!
On: 2007-04-06
This is my first heart monitor. I selected it because it was highly rated and, since I have a very tiny wrist, I needed something sized for a woman.
I really like it, but find the instructions very hard to follow. I have trouble getting past the simple time of day and heart rate screens (those were easy). I find myself randomly pressing buttons trying to get to any display more sophisticated than those. Im a PhD research scientist so I _should_ be able to follow these instructions. Ive also been a technical writer and believe that when the user is confused it is the fault of the documentation.
This is a very nice monitor, but it shouldnt be so difficult to use past the basic level.
On: 2007-04-05
I am really enjoying my new polar heart rate monitor! It is easy to use, easy to download the information and get all the totals. It gives you a realtime look at your workouts. I do many different kinds of classes and you can really see where you burn the most calories and how many of them are fat calories. It sometimes surprises me which classes burn the most. I would recommend this watch to anyone who loves to workout and know how well they are doing.
On: 2007-04-02
I bought this because Im pregnant and needed to keep an eye on my heart rate during kickboxing and other aerobic activities. It was very user friendly and the instructions took about 10 minutes to read and were very clear.
I have to say I was worried about it being really bulky but its not bad at all. I wasnt too thrilled about having to wear a strap but needed constant HR monitoring and the band doesnt bug me at all I hardly even notice it is on.
I think it was worth every penny.
On: 2007-03-28
The monitor works great. Helps me with my workout; I find that I can set a target and achieve it. Sometimes, it may pick up signals from others... I wish it had a better user interface.
On: 2007-03-22
All i can say is excellent! I was impressed with it the minute i activated it.
The manual is easy to read unlike so many other manuals that make what should be a simple action seem like you must know how to read backwards and skip pages frequently.
This monitor has features you can utilize for maximum results such as,
degree of workout intensity, heart rate limits and alarms that will let you know if you are overdoing it and many more than i can describe here.
Do your research carefully and when that is done i bet youll come back to this one.
On: 2007-03-19
Este equipo es muy bueno, le permite supervisar de cerca la evolucion de tus ejercicios. El color es muy lindo y agradable. Lo compre para mi esposa y esta super feliz y super delgada gracias a la ayuda y la informacion que este reloj le brinda en sus ejercicios. Lo recomiendo.
On: 2007-03-16
I have had this monitor for about a month now. Programming was easy and pretty self-explanatory. It is easy to set and gives accurate information. I havent used all of the functions yet, but I am very satisfied with the purchase.
On: 2007-03-16
The monitor works very well. I especially like the fact that it interacts with the excerise machines at the club that I go to. In other words, I dont have to wear the watch part of it when Im at the gym--it transmits directly to each machine.
About the watch--I like it, except for the color. I specifically ordered the womens watch because I have a very small wrist and I wanted to make sure I could get it small enough (which I can). However, when I am bragging up the product to other people, I find myself apologizing for the color, and making sure they know I didnt actually choose to wear that awful pink. You know, its very difficult to think of oneself as an athlete while wearing powder-puff pink!!
On: 2007-03-16
This monitor has helped me get the most out of my time at the gym. By working out at my heart rate ranges I am able to burn more calories. Ive seen a difference in my endurance since using this neat gadget.
On: 2007-03-13
I bought this heart rate monitor about 2 months and absolutely love it. The quantitative feedback on my running has definitely helped me to stay motivated, and it also helps me to determine whether Im working hard enough. The chest strap took some adjusting before I was able to keep it from slipping down my abdomen while running. It has to be rather tight to prevent it from falling off from the constant bouncing.
My only regret is that I didnt purchase a more expensive monitor with GPS built in for seeing how far Ive run.
On: 2007-03-13
This is a nice little model for women. I was worried about the screen being too large -when it arrived I found that its slightly bigger than a watch I would wear, but not a cumbersome size at all -the screen is approximately an inch in diameter. It doesnt have a stopwatch. It doesnt have GPS. The beeping to tell you that you are going too hard/too slow is loud enough that I can hear it over my headphones (at a reasonable volume) and the pitch is not annoying! The transmitter is very thin and comfortable to wear for at least an hour or so. There are a lot of storage data functions to keep track of all your stats. I was tempted to shell out the extra cash for the hot newer red model, but decided that it wasnt worth it for the extra $100 -I was right. Now someone just has to make one with GPS thats small enough for a women to wear.
On: 2007-03-12
They dont clearly state it, so I had to return this watch. Its a mens watch. After I bought it I did return it and upgraded it to the Polar F11 Womens Heart Rate Monitor (Blue Glow) - I liked some of the advanced features better.
On: 2007-03-11
Its amazing how much knowing your heart rate and where your heart rate should be effects your work out for the better. Kind of an odd color pink, but I still love the HRM.
On: 2007-03-11
I bought this product to help with my weight loss training. It does a great job monitoring and tracking your current heart rate during exercise. The chest strap is comfortable. I walk/jog and use the monitor along with the ipod nano Nike+ so the fact that it doesnt track mileage or lap times doesnt bother me. The accurate calorie counter is a great confidence booster (especially since it tells you the % of calories burned from fat) and the diary keeps track of your workouts and intensity. Im glad I bought it. It has definitely helped me to train more efficiently.
On: 2007-02-23
I love it. It helps me plan my workouts and work out better. I had been pushing myself too hard. Using the monitor I am better able to stay within a beneficial range. I lost 3 lbs the first week that I used it. This was a big improvement over my usual 1 lb. I highly recommend it. Read the manual first; it took less than 30 mins. Use the File/Log it helps review how much youve done over a daily,weekly, or monthly range. Buy this now.
On: 2007-02-22
I am training for a tri and needed to start dialing in on my heart rate zones. This watch and strap are perfect for a great price. I am able to track all of my workouts on the Polar Training site and it tells me calories burned, how long I worked out in the correct zone. Some of the previous reviewers talk about the cheapness of the watch (because it is plastic) and the lack of the chest strap. This DOES come with a chest strap and the watch is plastic which is ideal since it is for folks who are working out and sweating.
On: 2007-02-13
After researching HRMs for a while, I finally decided on this one. It seems like HRMs either do the very basic or try to do everything. This one seems to try to do everything, and the only thing I use is to keep track of my workout time and my instantaneous heart rate. For that purpose, it works great. It does countless other things, which I havent yet tried to get familiar with. Honestly, I probably could have spent a lot less money and got the functionality I needed, and after having the F6 for a while, I kind of wish I would have. Perhaps over time Ill start using the advanced features. Ive turned the out-of-range alarm off in order to save battery power since the unit is supposed to be sent to polar for a battery change. The alarm can be a little annoying anyhow, especially when it is indicating you are over your zone. It would be nice if you could set the alarm to go off only if you are below a certain heart rate and not be concerned with being higher than a set rate.
Regardless, its a great HRM. If you dont need all the bells and whistles, you might consider a lower-end model. Ive used this daily for a few weeks now with no problems.
On: 2007-02-12
This is the first heart monitor I have owned and overall I found it easy to understand, to set up, and to use. The monitor beeps when you fall below your recommended heart rate and personally I find the sound obnoxious so its a good motivator to pick my pace up to enter the target zone. It did take me several times to become familiar with which buttons to press to get certain functions,however I may just be on "function button" overload between all the electronic goodies I have. I do find it a very information resource when working out.
On: 2007-02-07
I just bought this monitor and i love it.
It provide all the important information that an athlete need.
But i just dont know why its not compatible with Polar Precision Software. Its not fare !!!
Its replacing my older heart monitor Polar S150.
I recomend to all sports fans
On: 2007-01-30
i really loved that.
Its helping me to control my traines and lose weight.
On: 2007-01-18
I bought this in December 06 to help me with my workouts... I really like it! I am able to see that some work I didnt think raised my heart rate really does and when I do need to work a little harder. An easy to use piece of equipment - my biggest problem - I dont read the manual, I thought once you click ok to exercise you are good... No, you need to go one more step and click Start, then your workout is recorded in the log.
Other than that... no issues at all, no cross signals from my elliptical which has a HRM on it..
On: 2007-01-15
Awesome! I bought this for a friend and she loved it.
Read the entire description (at the end it tells you that this comes with a transmitter so you dont need to buy another one)!
Looks great, feels great and she loved it!
On: 2007-01-10
Im really impressed by how easy this is to use, and how intuitive all the menus are. Set up was really clear and easy; I took the product out of the box and was able to use it right away without using the instructions.
The only thing I would consider as an improvement is a different band. The plastic makes sense when you are working out and sweating, but it isnt the most comfortable band.
On: 2007-01-09
I purchased this HRM back in Aug 06. Terrific features and fairly easy to use. However, over the past past two months or so, it has been stopping cold, sometimes reflects an off the charts heart rate or takes 3 mins or so to detect my HR. There are two other girls at my gym that have also purchased it and they are having the same problem.
When its working properly (which is most of the time) its an awesome piece of equipment to help keep you from slacking off.
On: 2007-01-09
I never thought a device like this would motivate me to train even harder (and smarter), but it did. Informative display, and the record keeping function which tracks previous workouts, calories burned, etc. is nice feature for comparing and tracking your progress.
On: 2007-01-09
The heart rate monitor watch is a nice tool; it has a full set of functionalities and it is perfectly suited for a lot of types of training.
The watch is very easy to use and instructions are user friendly.
A complete set of programs allow planning of almost professional trainings.
Despite all of this price is really affordable.
On: 2006-12-26
This product is a huge motivator. I can see my heart rate as well as calories burned. Ive have not had one problem out of it the 8 months Ive owned it. Ive used polar products before, so I would expect nothing less but great quality.
On: 2006-12-10
I really like this Polar monitor. I have not had any issues with the watch at all and I use it daily. The only reason I do not give this watch 5-stars is because of the software. Polar really needs to release some desktop software for this watch that provides better exercise details like graphs and charts. Currently the only interface available is via the internet. The upload mechanism is very antiquated and the Polar website is extremely slow. Further, the interface and details available on the website are pathetic.
On: 2006-11-16
It has very cheap look. Seems like those kinds of 99c stuff.
The bond is not very comfortable. I am surprised that it cant directly detect heartbeat from wrist. I wouldnt buy it if saw it at real stores.
On: 2006-11-10
I love my heart monitor. The hardest part for me is remembering to put it on when Im not working out at the gym since its always in my gym bag. It is very easy to use, and I love the ability to chart your progress. Its also very comfortable, and once you put it on you forget that its there. I have even been known to fall asleep with it on. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone that is wanting to get in better health. I finally know when Im not working hard enough or if Im working too hard.
The only thing that Im not looking forward to is when I have to send the chest strap in to replace the battery...
On: 2006-11-09
easy to use, tracks everything, i love it
On: 2006-11-09
I bought this HR Monitor for my wife, she loves it. It fits her needs, this is great it you want to control your daily workout without having interference from other monitors close to you, this one is coded, you can define your own heart rate ranges and keeps the last 12 workouts in memory. You can also transfer the information from the watch to the Polar fiteness trainer over the micriphone of your computer and to their website, no cables are required. You can also create your own program there, it really works, its like having a real personal trainer
On: 2006-11-05
This unit was easy to set up and use. It accurately shows my calories burned and beeps at me when Im out of zone. The chest strap is comfortable. I was worried at first because I have a "hard to hear" heartrate. This unit sometimes has problems picking me up during rest, but never during even the lightest of exercise.
On: 2006-11-03
It works good.. However, I wish for the womens small Size that it wasnt in Pink. Why the Manufacturers think we like Pink so much I dont know. Anyhow the watch works well for me. Thanks!
On: 2006-11-03
The polar F6 is easy to use and dependable.
I entered all my information and was using the unit in no time.
On: 2006-11-02
I use this to run and also at the gym. The Polar transmitter belt works with most treadmills, ellipticals, stair steppers and bikes at the gym so that is really nice to have your heart rate displayed on their screens. I like to be able to set target zones for my heart and it beeps once Ive reached that. Helps me to know where I am and how hard Im pushing myself. The color of the band is not my favorite pink shade and its not as feminine of a shape as I would like (Nike makes one that looks better, but it doenst work w/ gym equip), but to me the look isnt whats important. It displays the calories burned, avg heart rate, max heart rate, and time of exercise and the end of your workout. Very handy for the workouts!
On: 2006-11-01
This monitor is loaded with with stuff but doesnt have a runners stopwatch - a big downer since I run and would have to wear a second watch to record splits. I am deciding whether or not to keep it for a few reasons - 1. the stopwatch - you can only record your length of time working out; you can not record splits/laps. 2. its kind of an ugly pink - I am thinking one of the darker colors would be better, and its much bigger than I had expected. Its a tough call though, since I work out at the gym a lot and like the idea that it doesnt have "cross talk" and it is loaded with other features. Just keep the stopwatch factor in mind if you are a runner considering this product - FYI the F4 is cheaper and has the stopwatch. UPDATE - I returned this, bought the F4 and have been very happy with it, I use it at the gym and have no cross talk problems, swim with it also.
On: 2006-10-22
This is a great monitor. It counts calories. It has a feature called Own Zone that monitors your heartbeat during your warm up and sets your heart rate zones for that session in accordance with the current condition of your heart. It is very accurate and works will all the equipment at the gym and the cycle monitors. Ive been looking to purchase a monitor for my mom and have been comparing some of the cheeper models but I dont think they are as well built or have the reliability of this one. This is a great tool to make sure you are working to your full potential and not cheating your time.
On: 2006-10-20
This POLAR HRM I bought when I wanted to shape my body. In simple terms if you want to lose weight buy this watch and keep you HR at a desired level and follow a good diet. You will be really amazed to see the results. Definetely recommend it.
On: 2006-10-18
I bought this watch several months ago, and used it a couple times. It was a little loaded with features, which made it confusing for the basic exerciser to scroll through the HR, Calories, and Exercise Time menus. The thing I liked least about it was its huge size. It looked like a mans watch on my arm, and since I wanted to wear it daily as a watch, it was not very attractive. I did end up returning it to the store and purchasing another Polar model that was more basic and easier to operate. Polar makes a very good product, but having to send them away when the battery dies is not acceptable. I just end up buying a new one. Polars bands have a problem with discoloration from wear, and by the time the battery dies, the watch is a little beaten up from daily wear, so paying for extensive reconditioning (like $60) is usually not worth it when you can buy a new one for $80.
On: 2006-09-25
If one is serious about doing excercise properly, then you have to have a good heart rate monitor. (See, for example, "Fat or Fit" by Covert Bailey.) If you try to get into an excercise program without instruction or a heart rate monitor, you are going to exhaust yourself and give up.
I have no problems with this product. The watch is waterproof and not particularly uncomfortable while excercising. The chest strap fits me just fine. Both seem to be very durable (Ive been using mine for about 3 weeks now and there is no sign of wear-and-tear). The menus are, admittedly, a bit cumbersome, but after a couple of excercise sessions, followed by reviewing the manual, I have no trouble dealing with it. (After all, you only have 4 buttons and about a zillion options overall.)
Probably the best part of all is that the heart rate transmitter (the one that attaches to your chest) is picked up by all the equipment in my local gym: Stair Master, Life Fitness and others. So you dont have to put your hands on the probes that the excercise machine has to get it to tell you your heart rate. All of the machines in my gym have a "constant heart rate" mode, so this is fabulous!
I cannot speak to any other brands, or any other models of the Polar brand. But this device, the F6, is great and does everything I can imagine I would like to do.
I am middle aged and overweight. If you are either one of these, then you gotta get a heart rate monitor!
On: 2006-09-03
Good news is that this seems to be a great product. I never thought that I would want to purchase a fancy HRM until I started to get serious about my fitness. I still am not a gym nut, and purchased so that I can monitor my heart rate while using home equipment as well as having something consistent when I travel on the road.
My parents are in cardio rehab and the folks at their center highly recommend the Polar units. They have one and have tested it against some of the sophisticated HRMs that they have there and have found it very accurate.
I purchase the F6 as it had some bells and whistles, but not the kitchen sink. The instructions are very basic, but fortunately it is a simple unit to use. One of the big reasons I purchased it was to be able to upload my settings to the Polar fitness website so that I can keep track of my workouts. (It is dumb, but for some reason it is motivating for me to see on a computer monitor when I need to work out to maintain my goals...) I must say, the instructions for the Sonic Link are a little lacking. For those of you who want to use it, you need to search through a special web site to get the free WebLink software. (You can not navigate from the main polar web site as far as I can tell.) Once I downloaded that, and figured out how to hold my watch to get a good sound connection, it was very easy to upload the data.
So, this was a long way to say, great watch, but they need to improve the instructions.
On: 2006-08-09
This is the first heart rate monitor I have used during my workouts. I started walking at least one mile a day several months ago, but didnt seem to make any progress in conditioning. Since I began using the F6 last month, however, I have noticed a pronounced increase in my stamina and strength.
I think the change is that with the F6 I began working in my cardio zone instead of above it. In effect, I had been working out "too hard." By backing off a bit, I am now experiencing a reduction in heart rate and can now increase the difficulty of my workout gradually as my body requires.
In general, the F6 system is easy to use and comfortable to wear. There are only two issues that I have had with the system:
First, the chest strap sometimes takes a while to begin transmitting after I first put it on. The first time it happened (after I had used it for weeks), I thought the battery was dead. I found, however, that if I moisten the electrodes a bit, the monitor begins transmitting immediately. Also, the chest strap is surprisingly confortable for an inch wide piece of plastic. Although it can be a bit cold when you first the strap on, I soon forget I am wearing it.
The second issue concerns the watch. I believe that the exercise menu could be laid out a little better. When I am in the process of exercising and want to change my Heart Rate Limit from Light to Moderate or Moderate to Hard, the first menu item the cursor brings me to is the "HR Alarm", not "HR Limits."
At that point, I have to fiddle with the up and down arrows to arrive at the proper menu line and sometime in my haste, I overshoot the "Limits" line and have to repear the process. I dont know why anyone would want to change the "Alarm" in mid-workout, but thats what the designers have made the default selection. Perhaps there is an easier way to change the HR Limits in mid-workout, but I havent yet found it.
All in all, for about $100, I think that the F6 has all of the features I want and has improved the quality of my workouts making real, quantifiable progress possible for me, for the first time.
On: 2006-08-08
Easy to set up, accurate, user friendly. Just took it for a test drive this morning. Shipping was fast and friendly. Nice user manual. Very explanatory.
Put in your vitals, adjust the strap around your chest and put the pedal to the metal.
I burned 511 calories -- 45% from fat. For 49:51 minutes of work, I spent 14:46 minutes in the 144-160 beats per minute range; with my heart rate topping out at 178 (93% of my maximum for the "moderate training zone"). My average heart rate was 151 for the duration (79% of my maximum). The alarm cued me when to step it up and also when to back it down so I could keep on a better training track.
Apparently, Ive been working too hard in the past. Because just as the HRM was yelling at me to back down, I was thinking, "Geez, touchy thingie! I can go way harder and higher than this!" But if it improves my stamina, all the better.
I would recommend reviewing the product manual and setting up your customizations the night before if you are an early morning exerciser. Setup and familiarization with the product/material takes about an hour.
On: 2006-08-04
This is a great weight loss tool. It accurately tracks calories and is very easy to use. I would recommend it to anyone who is attempting to lose weight or just wanting to be healthy. It also is not too big or small (the watch) and the strap is comfortable. The heart rate monitor is easy to set up and use. Polar is the best of the best in heart rate monitors so spend a little extra money and get Polar because it is the best! I am so happy I got this product, it was definitely worth the investment!
On: 2006-08-01
Ive had my Polar F6 for two years. Its a great product, but the companys customer service could be improved. Recently, I sent the unit to the Polar Dallas, TX service center and requested a new LCD and a new elastic transmitter strap. They returned it with a new battery and new transmitter. Go figure.
People do make mistakes, but my follow-up email was apparently read by the same person who gummed up the original request. A simple repair request has now turned into a time-wasting Tarbaby.
On: 2006-07-09
My husband and I learned about the importance exercising with a heart rate monitor from the books Younger Next Year and Younger Next Year for Women by Crowley and Lodge. Yes, I know those book titles should be underlined or written in italics. However, this form does not allow that! Getting back to the F6, we thought wed start with just one heart rate monitor and share it. That way we could see if we would really use a heart rate monitor, and whether or not it was worth the expense.
Wow! What a difference it makes to work out with a heart rate monitor. Now that weve exercised with a heart rate monitor, we wouldnt go back to working out without one! Using a heart rate monitor keeps you on track and working out at appropriate heart rates. It makes the difference between an effective cardio work out and hardly working! It also adds a new, fun dimension to daily work outs.
We are still exploring all the features of the Polar F6, but like what we have used so far. It is fairly easy to set up and use. The watch actually walks you through the set up.
Weve now ordered a second Polaris F6 - a pink womens model for me!
On: 2006-07-04
Worthless. Half the time it doesnt work -- picks up other monitors, or doubles your heart rate, or doesnt show one, or shows a ridiculously low one. Nice, when it works, but completely unreliable. Dont waste your money.
On: 2006-05-07
I hope you chock on the $99 for a watch I bought my wife and she didnt like it so she filled out an RMA and returned it and we never received a refund or credit or anything....
I will still continue to get my money back...what a rip off...
On: 2006-04-08
I love my F6 Polar Heart rate monitor. Although the face may be too big for a girl, the functionality is great. You can download your settings to the website but be sure have a good microphone on your computer otherwise it may give you difficulty. Great to keep calories, heart rate, percentage of fat. The chest transmitter is very comfortable. Best one out there in features and price.
On: 2006-03-26
I have used this watch for approx. 1 month and loved it, but just recently it just froze up on me. Couldnt get it out of the mode it was in, which was in the middle of a exercise session. I took it to a watch repair and they took out the battery and told me it was a little on the weak side. Put it back and now the watch is totally dead. Barely lasted 6 weeks.
On: 2006-03-25
I bought the Polar for my wife and she loves it! It is much more accurate than our treadmil and really allows for a targeted workout. It is very easy to use and is not cluttered with confusing features that the novice user would never use.
On: 2006-03-20
This has helped me immensly with my workouts. After a year of over-exerting myself with nothing to show for it, I bought this and now I work out in my heart rate zone, making the most and the best of my workouts. Its been 3 months and I am seeing the results I had hoped for. I am thrilled!!!
On: 2006-03-16
Overall I am very pleased with this watch. I am not a health nut of a fitness fiend. Im just an average person looking to get into better shape and needed something to tell me if I am over working or not working hard enough.
The Polar F6 Heart Rate Monitor did just that. The watch helps you figure out your "zones" that you personally work well in and monitors where you average, your peaks, your lows, counts your calories and then gives you a full report once youre done.
For someone like me this is great! I found that I was not working hard enough and that when I did get an urge to work hard I was over doing it. With this watch I can pace myself and extend my workouts. Before I would get winded and have to stop. Then I would get frustrated and have to walk away, thus not fulfilling my fitness goals.
In the month that Ive been using the Polar F6 Heart Rate Monitor I have found a new interest in my workout and am on my way to having a semi-pleasant bathing suit season (if that is possible.) So to make a long story short, this watch has helped me a great deal and I am very happy with it.
On: 2006-03-16
It works perfectly, but sometimes as i begin running the chest band begins to slide or it unlatches itself, very annoying when your running and in the zone. but the heart rate monitor and the signal is always recieved and only takes like a second for it to pick up your heart rate. I would buy it again.
On: 2006-03-12
It was amazing the quick the item did arrive.In two days it was in the address that i had posted. And the watch WOW! is practically a computer. But the best think is the easy it is to understand. It comes with a guide book which includes the instructions step by step and very clear. It was a very good purchase.
On: 2006-02-23
This has been a great product. I have used it for 1 month now and found it a great way to monitor my workout. The free web based workout logger has provided a worry free way of tracking my progress.
On: 2006-01-30
for $100, its polar, very rugged and extremely useful in an uncomplicated way...gives you HR, max, average, % of times in zones, calories...and it stores all this stuff for a month. You get a lot of technology for not a lot of $$$, and Polar has the best product guarentee in the business
On: 2005-12-27
I brought this monitor a couple of days ago to attempt to improve my cardiovascular health. So far, Im extremely happy I brough this. It is very easy to use, but it still has a great user manual that I would reccomend reading. Also, the price might be a little expensive, but its worth it. Considering the two prices of this watch and Polars newest watch, F11, which is $50 more, I would definitely buy this watch again- as F11 doesnt seem to have that many new features.
Anyways, if youve had a heart rate monitor before, the strap is pretty much the same as all- its not comfortable, but its not annoying either. The strap measures about 33 inches long, so it will fit anyone with a waist ofup to 33 inches.
One feature I absolutely love is the file, which contains your exercise data, including the time the exercise was started, the duration, calories burned, how many calories burned from fat, your heart rate max and average, and your time in your heart rate zone. When the file gets full, you can transfer the data to the Polar Fitness Trainer website using a SonicLink- or you can just delete it.
Your diary is similar to the file, but it shows your totals that week instead of each single exercise. The totals include how many time you exercised, the duration, and calories burned.
Also, this watch is very easy to start exercising with- you just click the same button twice, and then it starts recording your heart rate, duration, calories, etc. It is also easy to see the time while your exercising, you simply bring the watch up to the belt and the clock light up and shows you the time. Also, I guess this could easily be used as a regular watch, as it shows the time and date when not being used, the only con of that is its not exactly stylish. (Well, from a womens point of view.)
This watch also shows you whether or not your in your HR zone based on age calculations- but what if your more advanced than your age? Well, then it has OwnIndex, which is a test used to calculate your target heart rate for exercising.
My only con, so far,(Well, besides that its unstylish) is simply that you cant keep the backlight on the entire time while youre exercising, as I exercise in the dark.
On: 2005-11-17
I bought this watch three months ago as a replacement of a Reebok HRM (by the way one of the worst decisions I ever made)
Since I started using it I feel the difference. It really help me with my exercise routine (I workout 3 to 4 times a week using a Elliptical trainer machine). The memories and the features are very helpful and easy to use.
The only negative thingh is the polar link communication it does not work. I tried to communicate with different computers unsuccessfully. Also the web page is hard to configure and the personal settings needed to be reentered several times.
Besides the software and the web page the HRM is a very good adquisition and it really helps with your training.
On: 2005-02-01
I always knew that I should be hitting 65% to 85% of my maximum heart rate while exercising, and I knew that I was sometimes, but this little gadget showed me how far off the mark I was. I had to double my cardio workouts in order to get into the zone where I needed to be to lose weight. Now, I am seeing real results. That knowledge alone was worth the price. Most of us overestimate how hard we work out, spend a lot of time at the gym, and then get frustrated at the lack of results. With this gadget I am able to make my workouts effective not just long and energy consuming.
The features on the A5 model are numerous enough to make this a great toy, and few enough as not to make it too complicated. This model is reccomended by Polar as one for for people looking to lose weight and increase overall fitness. This is not a model for the serious "data junkie" who wants to store all of their workout data in a spreadsheet. I dont think that this is a model for cyclists either. This is a model for someone who wants to know how many calories theyve burned, time in their target workout zone, BMI, % of maximum heart rate being reached, and heart rate. You can also perform a fitness test with this model, and that is an interesting feature.
This model comes with a transmitter. The product specifications were not clear about whether or not it came with one. I was confused about that, and ended up purchasing an extra, albiet better, transmitter. The transmitter that came with the A5 does not look comfy, the front part that goes over your chest is made of flexible rubber and the back part is a fabric strap. The extra one that I ordered (for $45) is a totally fabric model called the WearLink, that has one small plastic piece in the front. So, I would suggest you buy a more comfortable mostly fabric transmitter, if you plan to wear it alot.
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