Triathlon - Heart Rate Monitor for Cycling and Running

I'm looking at the Polar CS200, it is an upgrade from my current cyclocomputer as it has both cadence and heart rate.

Though I'm looking at getting a HRM for running aswell. Whats everyones advice, what is good for a beginner? Can I somehow combine both???

Chris

I responded to the same thing on the other post. Garmin Forerunner series is a good thing. I am using the 305.

I use an Edge 305 for both. I just hold it in my hand when I run.

I have a Garmin 305 Edge. I don't like it just because of it's big size. It literally is 2/3rds the size of my blackberry.

Also I find I don't need cadence now. After a while, I pretty much know my cadence just based on the experience.

If I were buying something new, I would consider Polar or perhaps the new Garmin that's much smaller.

I'm using an Edge 500. Smaller than the previous Edge bike systems, but doesn't do on-device street mapping. Got it for Christmas, so far, so good. Only catch is the temp reading is way off when I run - it's hand-held, so it's reading my body heat. It will work with the quick-release watch-band sold for the Forerunner 310XT - I just haven't bought it yet. Oh, only other catch is it only displays MPH, doesn't do min/mile pace like most running watches.

I've been very satisfied with my Garmin 305. I use it as much for running as I do for cycling, so I appreciate being able to see my pace on the run. Pair it with a wireless cadence sensor and it's a nice setup. I have not tried the new Garmin yet (310XT). I'm not sure if it is smaller or not, but it is supposed to have a longer battery life (20hr vs. 10hr if I'm not mistaken)

I have the Forerunner 305 and use it inside as well as outside. I bought the cadence sensor and it works great, and I got the foot pod for running on a treadmill. The only thing I have not purchased is the quick release for the bike and my wrist. I think after a year of owning it, I will get the quick release for my triathlon training.

A friend that has done a few IM events has teh 310XT and it is smaller than my Forerunner 305 and she really likes it.

Agreed, go with the Garmin Forerunner 305. You can have the heartrate and GPS for both the bike and the run all on the same unit. I'd recommend buying the optional cadence sensor for the bike as well. I've been using this set up for the last 6 months now, and it's perfect!

I've gone a different route with the Suunto T6c. I have the triathlon pack which includes wireless bike speed, cadence sensors and a foot pod. It also has the waterproof HRM strap that logs and record heart rate data separately from the watch.

It is limited in its ability to support complex workouts and intervals, but you can swim with it and record HRM data in the water. It also has seamless transition from swim to bike to run. While you can get a GPS for it, it is somewhat limited.

Some complain of the software that accompanies it, but I find it adequate to the task.

-Old Army