Polar FS1

Pros: Reasonably-priced, well-functioning and accurate, easy to use.

Cons: Chest transmitter might be bit uncomfortable, slightly bulky wrist receiver, basic functions.

The Bottom Line: The Polar FS1 provides solid, basic functionality at a reasonable price. If you don't mind the chest strap, then it's an easy way to wear your heart on your sleeve.

Review: The Polar FS1 Heart-Rate Monitor consists of a wrist-watch type receiver, and a pulse-sensing transmitter that is worn around the chest. The transmitter sends a weak radio signal to the receiver, so no wires are needed to connect the two pieces. ...

Pros: Economical, easy to use, easy to read, comfortable, multi-functioned.

Cons: No serious cons to report.

Review: After my husband nearly died of pulmonary embolism just before the holidays, he decided to get active again in order to reduce the risks of future blood clots. His doctor recommended that he invest in a heart rate monitor. After some basic research we ...

Pros: inexpensive, simple to operate, short transmission range, long battery life

Cons: not many features

The Bottom Line: Over all this is a good unit for running. When you’re getting involved in other sports though, you’ll probably have to look at nicer units.

Review: I purchased the Polar F1 Heart Rate Monitor about 3 years about for running. I was initially very disappointed in the only feature it seemed to come with, the start button. You really have to apply force to get it to start. After about 6 month, the ...