As a runner, you have probably been programmed to count the miles and live by the stopwatch. This is how runners have trained for years. But that approach to training has changed.

To understand how an HRM can help your running, Polar established the 3 Point Message:

1. In order to reach your goals, you need to train at the right intensity.
2. Heart rate is the only accurate measurement of your intensity or your exertion level.
3. A HRM is the easiest and most accurate way to continuously measure your heart rate.

If you're not using one, you probably know someone that does. You may have resisted until now, and hopefully that will end here. There are many different thoughts on how to get the most out of your running. The key to success is variety. Endurance workouts, tempo runs and AT intervals are at the heart of an effective program. A heart rate monitor is the one thing that can lead you through each one of those workouts, and give you the valuable feedback that can help you turn weaknesses into strengths, improve your fitness, or lose those last few pounds.