So it sounds like a HR monitor might be a good investment?

My goals are to keep or increase my fitness with regard to distance riding. I wouldn't mind getting faster, but my near term goal is a week of 100+ mile days through the hills of Pennsylvania.

I was originally thinking about a fluid trainer (leaning toward the Kurt Kinetic), but then my LBS recommended a Cyclops Pro Mageto trainer. I was wondering if to simulate grinding up hills, that a Cyclops Mag+ might be a less expensive solution that would meet my needs. I'd also considered the Progressive Mag Trainer (I have a trike) Thoughts?