Originally Posted by
chasm54
Polar make some basic models that aren't too pricey, you can google for them.
But why do you want one? Are you training for something specific? If not, there's really nothing wrong with just riding as hard or as easily as you want to ride on any particular day. I disagree with your brother, there's no particular reason why a 51 year-old should monitor their HR more than say, a 31 year-old.
Of course, if you are aiming to train systematically, then a HRM is very useful. If you get one and want to make maximum use of it, there is a workouts sticky in the road bike racing sub-forum that is full of intervals, reverse pyramids, information on SST sessions and other ways of giving yourself a hard time.
I never gave much thought to one to be honest. I hammered really hard this am and the climbs almost kicked my ass. I am not training, just staying fit. Or trying. He is my older brother and is always concerened for me. He has been a high mileage runner for almost 40 yrs and is freakin fit as hell. He said over doing it is not helping my cause and suggested one. Target range etc... I am sure I was way over my target heart rate on this ride. Don't want to get out and keel over. Although I was always a runner and cyclist and have kept my heart strong. Just not as fit as I would like to be.