Happy New Year’s Eve!
Tomorrow kicks off the 5 by the 5th Virtual Race series! Log your 5k or 5 miler anytime between January 1st and 5th (on the 1st if you’re doubling up with the Resolution run) and then enter your time here. I’ll host a link up next Monday for posts about January’s virtual run, and announce the first winners.
It’s that time of year when most of us are reviewing the past year and setting goals or intentions for the year to come.
I wrote out a list of my intentions for 2013 on Friday. I have most of what I need to go after my running goals, but I am curious to try adding a heart rate monitor to my training this year to measure progress. I was given the opportunity to try one from HHGregg, and I can’t wait to experiment.
I’ve never used a heart rate monitor for my training, but I plan to use this as part of the 5 by the 5th series to track my 5k each month. I’ve enjoyed reading about the many benefits of doing so.
Benefits of training with a heart rate monitor
- Measure your progress: Track your cardiovascular fitness to see improvements over time
- Prevent over-training: Ensure that your easy days are truly easy (and that your hard days are hard!)
- Pace yourself on hot days: Know how hard you’re working in extreme temps, this would have come in handy during the hot, humid days this summer
- More feedback in numbers: Perfect for those of us who love data
If you could use a Heart Rate Monitor, Treadmill, Elliptical or other fitness accessories, HHGregg is running a huge giveaway that starts today and will continue through next Monday, January 7th. Here are some details:
- Over $20,000 in prizes including Heart rate watches, Elliptical machines, Treadmills, and Home Gym packages
- Enter daily starting today through the HHGregg Facebook page or on their website
One of the prizes in their giveaway
HHGregg has also given me a $100 gift card to share with one of you!
Check out their site for all sorts of electronics including fitness accessories. They have Polar Heart Rate monitors ranging from $60-$199, as well as treadmills, ellipticals, ipods, headphones, Xercise balls, etc.
To enter, use the Rafflecopter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway will run through Sunday, January 6th and I will announce the winner on Monday, January 7, 2013. Fitfluential LLC compensated me for this campaign. All opinions are my own.
What are your thoughts or experiences with heart rate monitors?
Let’s start off 2013 with a bang!!!
oh! BTW: I have not experimented with Heart rate monitors but I hear its the best for those working on fat burning during cardio sessions.
I have used a HRM before. I am a numbers nerd and I love to see how many calories I burn. I would probably upgrade my HRM if I won.
Natalie T. recently posted..HBBC week 6 recap
I have a Polar Heart Rate Monitor, so I would use it to put towards the Step360 which looks very very cool!
kim prytherch recently posted..HBBC2012 Weekly Recap
until now I have been a HARDCORE *only* rate of perceived exertion exerciser…
Until now.
Miz recently posted..STOP REREADING!
I have a HR monitor but am not very good at using it, one of my 2013 goals
Jen recently posted..Are you ready for 2013?!
I’d use the monitor for these reasons. I’d like to see progress and it good to know for hot days. Idk about the gift card haven’t thought that far. But I think it be get the heart rate monitor.
Happy New Year!!! I love my HRM, and have a giveaway on my blog today too. but can I enter your still? Now I need the $100 to get the data transfer thing.
Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table recently posted..Junk-Free January + Polar FT4
I bought a HRM a few weeks ago, but it was a cheapie and, surprise, it didn’t work. So, I am researching for another. This would be great!
I keep forgetting about my HRM. I need to hook myself up to that bad boy at least one run a week to make sure I keep it easy…
Jamie @ Rise.Run.Mom.Repeat. recently posted..Swing in the New Year: A Kettlebell Challenge
Thank you! Love giveaways and finding new blogs!
Ive never used a heart rate monitor but I have read a lot about them and have always wanted to This is likely what I would use the 100$ on
although I am in some serious need of a new GPS device.
It would be great to win some swag! Love your blog!
I use a hrm to monitor the intensity of my workouts but would love to upgrade to a polar
I have thought about using a HR monitor many times. I live in hill country and my HR can go off the charts, especially in the summer months when it is hot out.
Lisa @ RunWiki recently posted..Looking Back and Looking Forward… The Art of Transition
I have a HRM, but really need to start using it more! I am hoping to find a good deal on a treadmill to start the year off and the GC would definitely go towards that!
I have never used a heart rate monitor before but I have looked into them. If I got $100 I would use it for some new running gear I really need.
Happy 2013!! Let’s do this!!
I had a HRM strap to link with my garmin and rarely used it, then lost it. I guess, it’s beneficial when wanting to lose weight, since it track your calories burned during workouts.
I would use the $100 for a new GPS watch. The one I currently have is ancient, it doesn’t always work, and my phone’s GPS works better, but is difficult to carry while running.
I do not have a heart rate monitor- I would purchase a Apple iPod shuffle 2GB Green for my walks if I win. Thanks!
I have a heart rate monitor that has a lot of different features. I use all of them except tracking my heart rate, lol! but i am very interested in doing more of that this next year
i would use the $100 to get more workout equipment (i.e. bosu ball, weights, etc)
I haven’t used a heart rate monitor. I would buy an exercise ball if I won.
I have a hear rate monitor with my Garmin but haven’t used it. I would use the $100 for a new iPod my buttons are starting to wear out!
Betsy recently posted..pv.Body Review
I have a garmin but would love just a heart rate monitor that doesn’t need to be tracking my distance at the same time. Like when I am on the treadmill.
I’ve used a hrm but do usually train with one. I’d totally try to get a treadmill!
Kat recently posted..Sad to say goodbye to 2012!
I definitely would use this towards a sports watch or heart rate monitor. I am racing tomorrow!!!! Can’t wait
thanks for hosting Laura! Happy New Year!
Ali Mc recently posted..A new way to ice cupcakes & massages
I’m looking to buy a treadmill!!
i would use it for glucose monitoring
I would love to have a treadmill at home. (still no space…better clean!). I have access to one at work, but have to use it right at end of day, as I live too far to come back later.
I’m looking forward to the 5 by the 5th challenge…even though my 5k tomorrow is going to be cold! I love my Garmin and use it constantly. I would probably go for equipment – exercise balls, etc.
Jennifer Peterson recently posted..Motivation Monday – I Say “Yes”
I’d love to win!
Erin J recently posted..Twenty Twelve.
When I first began running over two years ago, I wore a heart rate monitor because I was afraid I would drop dead of a heart attack since I was still obese and very unfit. After a couple of months, I put it away and have not used it since. I would use the 100 dollars for more running stuff.
I’ve never used a heart rate monitor before but want to. I would use the $100 for a heart rate monitor.
Mindy @ Road Runner Girl recently posted..Instead Softcup Review
I don’t use one, but really need to, my heart rate goes up really fast. Honestly? $100? I would get a heart rate monitor!
Jules recently posted..Four Colors and Candy Canes
Very excited for the Year ahead in running! Tomorrow will be a nice 5 mile run to start it right!!! I don’t use a heart rate monitor.
I have never used a heart monitor but I would love to get a yoga mat and a medicine ball with the gift card!
I have a Garmin, but I’ve never used a heart rate monitor before. I would definitely use the giftcard to purchase one myself!
Sarah @ Blonde Bostonian recently posted..Guest Post: What I Learned from Marathon Training
I’d love one to get an accurate calorie burn instead of an app guessing for me!!
I’ve never used a HRM. I would be interested to track the intensity of my workouts.
I have a Polar FT4! I use it all the time, but I have to retrain my brain to not have to go all out, that it’s ok that I’m not burning hundreds of calories EVERY SINGLE WORKOUT. =) I’d totally use the card to get another one. I’ve been wanting to upgrade to another one!!
Maria @ Lil Mys Ninja recently posted..Motivation Mondays: 5 by the 5th Virtual Race Series
I would use it towards the Horizon T202 Treadmill
I have had a couple and I use them from time to time but not consistently. I think they are worthwhile and I like to use mine to sorta check up on my pace.
I have never used a heart monitor while working out. I would love to get some yoga equipment!
I have never used a heart rate monitor before and I would use the gift card to buy a treadmill
I’ve been wanting to start training with a HRM! I really want to win!!!
I have never used a HRM, but I do have one. I should probably try it:)
hikermom recently posted..Friday Freedom
I’d put it towards either an elliptical machine or maybe try out the Spri Step360™ Pro . Or just load up on smaller accessories!
I’ve been wanting to try training with a HRM…still new-ish to running, so this has been on my mind as a next step.
I need a pedometer! Wonder if they sell those….
Sarah (Shh…Fit Happens) recently posted..How to Buy a Gym Membership
I’ve never worn one, but would love to try it!
katie @ fromicecreamtomarathon recently posted..My 21 Day Juice Fast
I have never used a heart rate monitor, but it would sure help with running on easy days as I tend to go too fast!
I just started using a HR monitor because I got one for Christmas. I am not even sure how to use it yet, but I am meeting with my coach tonight for a threshold test. He said he would go over different HR zones with me so hopefully it will all make sense to me.
Tasha @ Healthy Diva recently posted..Week 1: Smiling
I’ve never used a heart rate monitor but it sounds like something I could really use
I would probably use the gift card towards a variety of “home gym” materials (resistance bands, etc). I do have a heart rate monitor and use it all the time.
Tami Grandi recently posted..Sending 2012 out with a Bang!
I have never used one before, but I think it would be great to have to let me know that I’m not really going to die from my heart bursting if I push myself harder haha. I would probably use the hh gregg giftcard to pick one up
I’ve never used a HR monitor but could really use an iPod!
I am impatiently waiting for my own HRM to arrive, I can’t wait to use it!
Kammie @ Sensual Appeal recently posted..Herring Potato Salad (Traditional Polish Salad)
I’ve used HRM before. They’re pretty great for tracking progress. I’d use the gift card for upgrading my camera equipment!
Angela @ Happy Fit Mama recently posted..New Year, New Goals
I have not used a heart rate monitor other then when I run on the treadmill at the gym & even then I don’t use it every time but I want to start using one consistently!
I would use the gift card for better running earbuds and a arm strap for my iPhone … hate dropping it when I am running or getting tangled up in the cord of my earbuds!!
Rachel H {@rachhabs} recently posted..Mamavation Monday: I Feel Amazeballs Again!
I do not have a heart rate monitor. I would use it to buy one!
I use a Garmin HRM with my MotoActv. After running a Fitness Test my personal data, like resting heart rate and thresholds are automatically calculated and posted. I would use the gift card to upgrade my HRM.
I have not used one before, but would love to buy one!
I love my HRM! I’ve used a Polar for cross training and I have a monitor linked to my Garmin for running.
Sarah S @RunningOnWords recently posted..Baby’s First Christmas (with an obscene amount of pictures)
I have never used a heart monitor and that is what I would buy!!!!!
Joanna Broadbent recently posted..Goals for January and a Happy New Year!!!!!
I would get a heart rate monitor. Been wanting to try one
I used a heart rate monitor in the past but haven’t recently. If I won the gift card I might get a HR monitor to start using it again.
I have a Polar HRM, but I want a gps tracker one to log mileage!!
Nicole recently posted..Friends & Errands
So excited for the race series just have to make it fit with my schedule. Great giveaway too!! Interested to see how the heart rate training goes. Ive always been interested in it.
I have been using a HRm but not consistently
Can’t wait to start this series!!!
Toni recently posted..BALANCE
I have a HRM that came with my Garmin but I don’t think its really all that accurate. I had a VO2 Max test in 2012 that I disagree with based on how I feel, if that makes sense! I always feel better than it says I am doing! Oh well, trial and error.
Laurie recently posted..Holiday Bootie Buster Week 6 Recap
Have never tried a heart monitor – except for those handlebar ones on elliptical machines that we all know don’t work! Happy new year Laura!
Alicia at Poise in Parma recently posted..How I Found Clarity in 2012 (a very simple recap)
I’ve never used a HRM, but have always been intrigued. I’d probably use the $100 to buy one!
I have not used a heart rate monitor, but I see one I would like to get there — the Polar FT7 Heart Rate Monitor Watch!!
I do use a heartrate monitor. I’ve got the Garmin 910 which comes with one. It was initially a novelty for me, but I do depend on it to get the most out of my training. And I’m a data geek!
I haven’t used a heart rate monitor before but have always wanted to in order to get some more feedback on my training and see if I was over/under training
Christine @ Love, Life, Surf recently posted..Intentions for the New Year
I have tried HR training before, and still use it to an extent. I enjoy monitoring my HR and seeing it improve at the same pace over time. Good luck with that this year!
melanie recently posted..HBBC wrap up week #6
I really really really want a heart rate monitor! Please, me!!!
Jen recently posted..Looking Back and Moving On
I have never used a HR monitor, but I think about it all the time. Esp now that I had mine “fixed” I’d be curious how to use the data to my advantage
Julie @ ROJ Running recently posted..Friday Food : Boston Cream Doughnuts
I haven’t tried one. I would like to, but I run mostly on a treadmill so have gotten used to not having anything on- a watch, iPod, phone. This might be my year, though
I wish i had your running ambition and goals! LOL! I record nothing.
lindsay recently posted..Not your Average Pancake Breakfast
I do use a heart rate monitor, it helps alot!
i would buy some fitness shoes or tops!
I love my Garmin but never use the heart rate part.
I just started using my heart rate monitor this year and I’ve loved it. It takes the pressure off on pace (because your heart rate doesn’t lie to you about how fast you should be going on a given day for a given type of workout) and you see improvement slowly but surely. I think you’ll love it!
Terzah recently posted..Plans for 2013
I’ve used a heart rate monitor for the last year. I haven’t used it for heart rate training, but mostly as a way to keep track of my mileage, running and race improvement.
Julia recently posted..365 Days, 52 Weeks: A Look at Blogging in 2012
Happy New Year. I use a Heart Rate monitor sometimes more so on Easy and Long runs. But I only use it as a rough guide as I find heat, coffee and so many things can affect it so not always a consistent guide for me. Looking forward to my first race of the series tomorrow!
Jenelle @ mummylovestorun recently posted..15 weeks – Canberra Marathon
Never used a HRM, but my sister loves her Garmin – that would be my pick!
I’ve never used a heart rate monitor either…. But I can tell how hard I’m working by my breathing and feeling my pulse at least…. Looking forward to the 5 by the 5th Virtual Race Series!
I’ve never used a heart rate monitor, and I don’t check my pulse. I would definitely try it out to see if it helped me to run better and train better.
Barb @ Frugal Local Kitchen recently posted..2013 resolutions
I have never used a heart rate monitor.
i’ve never used one but i would love to get one
I’ve never used a heart rate monitor but would love to give one a try!
never used one and probably wouldn’t, i dont know what i’d spend the $ on yet!
I used a HRM with my first pregnancy and while I was getting back in shape too to make sure I was working hard enough!
Fancy Nancy recently posted..Ready to Rock 2013!
I am very interested in hearing more about your experience with heart rate training and the HHGregg Heart Rate monitor. Is the heart rate monitor a chest strap type? I had tried it with the garmin, and found the strap keep following despite getting the tiniest strap available.
I’ve used a heart rate monitor but not too frequently. One came with my garmin forerunner. I do love the numbers and stats, but I didn’t quite like the fit. I do think they can be very beneficial when training- but also when you want to make sure you’re running easy if you supposed to be. Thanks for hosting the giveaway!
and happy new year!
Runner26 recently posted..2012 in Review
Never used a monitor. I’d use it toward a treadmill.
Heather@YSP recently posted..New Day, New Year
I did my first race years ago all with heart rate training. I have switched to cadence training to keep my ITB healthy. Now that is going well, I would like to add be heart rate training run per week.
Run Jilly Bean recently posted..Turkey Trot 5k 2012
I have tried a heartrate monitor before, but haven’t used one in a long time.
I would love to try out a polar HRM!
I have never used a heartrate monitor before. I love gadgets, but I tend to get bogged down in data and stop enjoying my runs. However, I’m sure it’s in my future at some point since I can’t stay away from electronic devices for too long.
Rhonda recently posted..HBBC Week 6 Recap
Thanks for the push to get 2013 off to a good start!
I’ve never used a heart rate monitor for training, but I know a number of runners who swear by it.
Raquelita recently posted..2013 Goals
I just started using a heart rate monitor and I’m excited to see how it improves my training.
Debbie @ Live from La Quinta recently posted..Getting Psyched, Part 3: The Final Motivator
I use the garmin heart rate monitor and I really believe it has helped me with my training.
I have never used a heart rate monitor but I would LOVVVVEEEEE to have one to improve my running and help me train for my first half marathon!! Definately know what I would use the $100 for…..
I haven’t used one in the last 3 years and I would probably get a Holmes ceramic heater
I don’t use a HRM, but I’d love to.
I have never used a heart-rate monitor, except for the ones that are attached to ellipticals and treadmills at the gym.
I have used one and to be honest I am not sure how to use the info as part of training. I would get some more winter running clothes
Gigi recently posted..Nominated For a Liebster Blog Award!!!
I would love to try a heart rate monitor (so would my husband)!!! Thanks for hosting the giveaway!!!
I actually could really use a heart rate monitor
I have used a Garmin but never a HRM while training. After seeing all this Polar promotion it’s making me interesting. I think if I won the gift card I’d probably use it to buy a Polar so I could give it a try.
meghan @ little girl in the big world recently posted..Goals for 2013 & My Commitment
I don’t use one, but planned to get one this year…this would be great to use to get one!
Danielle K recently posted..Happy New Year!
I just got a Polar HRM and am loving it.
Abby @ BackAtSquareZero recently posted..2013 Goals – Running
I have not used a heart monitor only because I am unfamiliar with them. If I had $100 I would be more inclined to try one and promote its use if it was helpful.
I use a HRM for training about 95% of the time, the other 5% I forgot to wear it. Ha! It seems complex at first, but if you can keep track of your zones, it’s really quite simple. Hope you like using yours!
Raina recently posted..Still Streaking and Other Updates
I have used a heart monitor before but i need a good one. I would use the 100$ towards new fitness equipment. Like new dumbbells because mine need upgraded badly and probably a heart monitor.
I don’t have a heart rate monitor but have been itching to try one. This would be a great opportunity to do that.
I’ve not used a heart rate monitor before. This is actually at the top of my list of training tools to get in 2013!
DisneyBride recently posted..Welcome 2013!
I have not used a heart rate monitor before, but would be interested in seeing how it helped me. I definitely need some more tools to help me become a better runner.
April Ockerman recently posted..Merry Christmas From the Ockermans
I havent used a HR monitor before but I would go check them out!
I used the MIO watch with heart rate monitor when i first decided it was time to get moving (about 2 years ago). It helped me to tune into my body while exercising so I could estimate my exertion level. I still use it every now & then to remind myself not to over estimate my level of effort
I am trying the fitbit this year with the myfitnesspal app link for food logging.
I use to have a HRM, but I was so concerned about it that I would stress out and not enjoy my runs. Now I don’t wear a watch when I run my races, and find that I enjoy them much more.
I’ve never used one. I might put it toward an exercise ball if I win
I’m a Polar user
I own the FT4 but would definitely buy an HRM with a GPS 
It would help me so much, instead of carrying around my bulky cellphone!
Karina recently posted..2012 – New Years Eve..
I’ve never had a heart monitor so I think that I would invest in one with the gift card.
I have a heart rate monitor but haven’t used it yet. I would buy more running gear or put it towards a new ipod since mine broke and I need tunes to run to.
I’d love the heart rate monitor. I could also use the card for running equipment (anything related to running since I’m a newbie)!
I’d use the gift card to buy a blu-ray player for watching workout dvd’s
My Garmin is dying a not-so-slow death, so I’m really keen to check out some new equipment!
Have never use a HRM but really want a new watch, the one I have is awful, has never worked monitoring my pace or cardio
I have, but it’s been a few years…I think I would like to get one and try it out again. Awesome awesome giveaway!
Kelly@Leafy Not Beefy recently posted..Christmas Quinoa, Reflections, and More
I’d put it towards a DVD player. Love exercise videos to change things up a bit.
I use a HRM with my Garmin F60 (not GPS boo) and I do find it interesting to see my trend in HR and that is such a great suggestion on using it to track ‘effort.’ I was just watching it for general fitness trend. I will have to monitor it more closely now to help figure out tempo and easy run speeds now.
deana recently posted..Motivation, Determination & Goals
I haven’t ever used a HRM, i’m just starting out running so hopefully I could use this to buy one!
I have not used a HRM either, but I hear they are very beneficial for tempo and speed training. Might need to give one a try in 2013.
Melanie recently posted..Kiawah Island Half-Marathon and Marathon Recap
I have not used a HRM but I would invest the $100 for one if I won!
I currently use a Garmin HRM with a MotoACTV. I love the feedback and it also helps me know when I’m doing too much and need to slow it up a little.
Beth recently posted..ZoomaWomen’s Race Series Giveaway!
I have used several HRMs over the years, most in conjunction with a GPS watch. I was just at hh gregg yesterday, and it would be hard to narrow down how I would use the $100.
I use a HR monitor and love keeping track of my stats. I would spend $100 on a new hydration vest!
Travel Spot recently posted..Best of 2012: Experiences
I haven’t used a heart monitor yet except for the ones on treadmill & elliptical I would love one to see how my workouts are actually working…
I haven’t used one, but I would love to, and that is what I would spend my money on if I won!
Entered the rafflecopter form as “Wild Orchid”
Thanks for the cool giveaway!
wildorchid985 @ gmail dot com
I started off with a Polar HR monitor for training a few years ago. It really put things in perspective for me on how much time I was spending training and how hard I was always training. I used it to train smarter. If I got this gift card? Hmmmmm so many decisions!
Heather (Where’s the Beach) recently posted..More Veggies and Blood Clot Talk
I havent used one yet but all my friends have them and love it! If I won id actually use it to buy just that, a polar watch and monitor!
I would love to win
I have never used a true HR monitor and would love to get one. Awesome giveaway!!
Carrie@familyfitnessfood.com recently posted..Happy New Year
I have never used a polar watch/HR monitor and would love to try one. I’ve seen so many runners post their pictures and times using different kinds. I definitely would use the $100 to invest in one.
I have never used a HR monitor, and don’t know if I would like it. Maybe I am just not serious enough about my training, I don’t know. I’m sure I could find something to spend $100 on though! Thanks.
I haven’t used one
I do not have a heart rate monitor i would use the gift card towards a ipod
I don’t have a heart race monitor and I would get a deep fryer
I’ve never used a HRM. They kind of scare me because I’m not sure I’d like what they told me, but if I one, I’d consider buying one. Or a few smaller fitness accessories (medicine ball, resistance bands, etc).
I love using a heart rate monitor to help me train for my races.
Kim @ Redefining Kim recently posted..Favorite Things Friday: Fitness Apps
I cannot wait to get a treadmill. It is my number one wishlist item for our next house.
I haven’t used a heart rate monitor yet (plan to as soon as it’s in the budget)- but I would use the $100 for a coffee maker for my new home…moving to Chicago in April!
Shannyn @frugalbeautiful.com recently posted..Tinker Bell Half Marathon Training Update: 15 DAYS!! Oh, And I Have Asthma.
[...] thing I have joined is the @mommyrunfaster, 5 by the 5th Virtual Race Series. I got my in in the nick of time. I hadn’t run in a couple weeks so my time was slow. But I [...]