Comments on: Polar Gathers More Information, But Leaves You Feeling Alone

By: ANT+ enthusiast

ANT+ enthusiast — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 17:06:53 +0000

The new Polar/Nike+ HR belt only works with the Nano 5G, it does not work with iOS devices (iPhones, Pod Touch, iPads) or any other Apple devices.

Polar 5 KHz (analog) wireless technology has been around for 25 yr and has serious shortcomings in gyms, groups and multi sensor systems (like on bikes).

Nike+ is digital but it is a single channel, closed, proprietary system.

ANT+ is based on digital technology, it is an open ecosystem with over 230 companies contributing products and services including: Adidas, Garmin, Timex, etc.It is the defacto standard for ultra low power wireless in fitness and health personal physiological monitoring. www.thisisant.com

By: FitnessGal

FitnessGal — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:24:57 +0000

Thanks for the suggestion to check out Digifit and relieved to read that Digifit works with Garmin sensors. I was a longtime Polar user until I found Garmin - the cross talk with Polar belts is enough to never go back and the cost on Amazon for Garmin straps is 30-40 when Polar is 50. I love the video capability with Digifit's iSpinner and the real time charting in iRunner, too. Cool stuff!!

By: Digift

Digift — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 02:24:08 +0000

So you might want to check out Digifit. We have had the only heart rate monitor on iOS devices - iPhone, iPod touch, iPad - for 16 months running!

We recently launched the patent pending Digift Ecosystem where we bring it all together now ... heart rate, foot pod, cycling speed cadence and power meter as well as weight scale. More to come.

iCardio, iRunner, iBiker, iSpinner and iPower (WATTS) are all available on the App store and you can get the Digifit Connect accessory and sensors at digifit.com

By: Sam

Sam — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 21:19:43 +0000

I just read your opinion on Nike+ versus the Polar. In my situation, I purchased the Nike+ for my Nano, and realized late that I needed the video (not knowing the Nike+ was not going to work with the bigger iPod). I purchased the new, bigger iPod because of the video (I do use it a lot...news, cooking, etc.), and lost my Nike+ ability. I purchased the Polar F55, and I LOVE IT! I use the simple features (for now). My problem/challenge was that I need to be efficient; that is, I am 49-years-old, want to run/job at 148 beats per minute (85% of my max zone) on the treadmill for 30 to 60 minutes. I find that I almost "glide" through my jogging/running because of the heart monitor accuracy. I get my heart rate to 148 within 3 minutes at about 6.2MPH and stay at that speed and gradually come down to about 5.5 MPH within 30 minutes of running/jogging with a constant 148 beats per minute. I did not by the extra device that allows you to beam the data to an interface connected to the computer for plotting purposes. It was $79!! It's a simple device that probably cost Polar a few bucks to make. Sam

By: Laura Moncur

Laura Moncur — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 01:05:35 +0000

Adria,

Before you spend any money on another HRM, try my KY jelly trick. I'm not sweaty enough to get an accurate reading on HRMs, but if I put KY jelly on the sensors, then it reads correctly right at the beginning. It might be that Phil is a little more sweaty than you are, so the HRM can read his heart rate a little better.

I saw the advert for Nike's virtual half marathon, but I didn't really care to join it. I'm not at that level yet, so I didn't even consider it. It's a good idea, though!

Best of luck, Laura

By: Adria

Adria — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 01:00:49 +0000

I was looking at Polar HR monitors today since I have a lot of trouble getting an accurate read with the Garmin. The problem is on my end, because it works fine for Phil. I'd like to find something that works without the chest strap but haven't come across it yet. I'm training by HR so a monitor is a must.

What are your thoughts on Nike's virtual half marathon?