Heartrate Monitors Blog

Garmin’s newest GPS watch, the stylish Forerunner 10, is coming soon and at Heart Rate Monitors USA, we’re ready. In fact, you can pre-order your Garmin Forerunner 10 now.

The Garmin Forerunner 10 tracks distance, pace, speed and calories, but unlike other GPS watches, it’s all about simplicity. Just push one button to start, or use simple features like Virtual Pacer to stay motivated. The Forerunner 10 is also Garmin’s most comfortable sports watch ever with a lighweight make that makes it easy to not just wear it as a training computer, but also as a normal watch.

Packed with features, the Garmin Forerunner 10 GPS watch showcases the best of Garmin with:

• A run/walk feature that tracks even if your run workout includes walk breaks
• Alerts every time you complete each mile
• Workout summaries, including total time, distance, average pace, and calories
• Alerts for when you achieve a personal record, like your fastest mile or longest run to date
• Easy-to-read display of time and distance or calories and pace, you choose the screen

The Garmin Forerunner 10 GPS watch won’t be available until next month, but you can preorder it right now at HeartRateMonitorsUSA.com in black, green and pink.

Nothing shouts “fun” better than jumping over fire, swinging through tires, or crawling underneath barbed wire in a pit of sloppy mud! More people have been skipping the general 5K runs to sign up for more obstacle challenging courses, including the Warrior Dash, Spartan Run and Tough Mudder. As fun as these runs are, it is still important to properly train for the event to gain more strength and endurance. The following training tips can help you conquer your dash:

(1)    Strength & Endurance Training

• Cardio: Take 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times per week, to go for a jog. It’s important to aim for endurance, rather than speed, on the day of the race.
• Upper-Body Strength Training: Many participants experience upper body fatigue when climbing over walls. Push Ups, Pull Ups, and Hanging Knee Raises can strengthen your arms and core, so you can lift your body weight up the wall with ease.
• Hip Abductor Training: There will be several times when your foot gets stuck in a thick pile of mud, and the motion used to run out of muddy parts actually works your hips. Hip Abductor machines and Spider Lunges can therefore be added to your workout plan.
• Circuit Training: Combining the above 3 Training Exercises can help you get the most out of your workout. An example of circuit training is as follows:
  • 1 minute Cardio (Sprinting)
  • 30 seconds Upper-Body training (Push Ups)
  • 1 minute Cardio (Sprint)
  • 30 seconds Hip Training (Spider Lunges)
  • Repeat 3 or 4 more times.

(2)    Tips For Race Day

• Stretch before and after the race.
• Wear comfortable, old shoes. Minimalist or lightweight running shoes are always great.
• Pace yourself.
• Drink water and eat energy bars. Electrolyte Drinks give you the nutrients needed to perform at your highest level, as well as keep you hydrated.

Following these Training Tips will help you physically and mentally throughout the course, so have fun and don’t be afraid to get dirty!

The Fitbit Ultra slides easily into a pocket, clips onto shorts, or goes wherever else you're going to give you real-time fitness stats.

In the most recent TIME Magazine, writer Jason Fulford shared some of his favorite must-have mobile gadgets and one of those picks was the Fitbit Ultra. If you haven’t given the Fitbit a look as an activity tracker, it’s one of the world’s most sophisticated and compact options.

Sized similarly to a thumb drive, the Fitbit Ultra is a constant fitness companion. Once you clip it on, it counts the steps you take, the hours you sleep, and other stats and uploads them to Fitbit.com where you can also log workouts, meals, and other fitness events. Check your stats and progress in real-time, as it gives info on steps, distance, calories burned, and floors climbed with a single button. It’s the pedometer reinvented – and it’s one of our favorite fitness tools.

Best of all, the Fitbit Ultra uploads its data wirelessly and automatically to Fitbit.com – just step within 15 feet of the base station that’s plugged into your MAC or PC and the tracker will upload.

Once your data is up on Fitbit.com, you can analyze the visual graph, use your custom dashboard to chart progress, and just generally get schoop on what exactly is happening with your body. Log everything with your tracker, your smart phone, or your computer. The Fitbit Ultra makes it easy.

P.S. The Fitbit Ultra also allows for you to share info with friends and create your own private groups to set collaborative or competitive goals on Fitbit.com. You can also join public groups where you can get fitness advice from others who share your fitness goals.

This is soooo much more than just a pedometer – and that’s the reason why it made it into TIME Magazine.

To get yours, check out the Fitbit Ultra at Heart Rate Monitors USA. We stock the Ultra in both blue and plum – and both are under $100!

Kinesio Tape, also known as KT Tape

If you’ve been watching the Olympics in London (how about those closing ceremonies!?!), then you’ve probably asked yourself about what the deal might have been with the colorful strips of tape all over Olympians’ bodies. These strips of tape aren’t just for decoration. In fact, they’re something that many athletes have been using to reduce injury for quite some time. The strips are actually KT tape, which is also known as Kinesio tape.

KT tape, for those who don’t know, is sort of like a Band-Aid for your muscles. It provides external support and works sort of like a brace to avoid further injury of an affected area. So basically, if you’re an athlete that tends to injure or feel strain around your knees, wearing KT tape can sort of offer a boost in protection. Some athletes also report that KT tape aids in improving circulation and alleviating pressure in an area where you most often feel pain after a workout. KT tape is often used to prevent many common sports injuries such as knee pain, shin splints, and tennis elbow, but athletes can basically use this aid anywhere they’d like.

For example, in the most recent Olympics, Katrin Holtwick of Germany wears KT tape across her abdomen. Beach volleyball player Kerri Walsh Jennings wears multiple strips when she plays.

KT tape was invented in Japan more then 30 years ago and has been used since then by athletes looking for a natural way to support their muscles. After the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, KT tape became an athletic staple, as countless rolls were donated to 58 countries. Today, KT tape is used as a lighweight external support in a variety of sports and settings. You can run with it, swim with it, wear it during volleyball, bike with it…you name it and you can pretty much wear KT tape while doing it.

To learn more about KT tape, be sure to check out our Kinesio Tape selection. At the top of the page, you’ll find a great breakdown of what KT tape is, what it does, and how you can use to to treat and prevent common sports injuries like ITBS, shin splints, plantars, fasciitis, and more.

Quotes are awesome. Put them on a t-shirt, binder, water bottle, hat, or write them on your arm before running a marathon. No matter where you put them, they inspire. They motivate. They keep you going when everything else feels like it’s the hardest thing you’ve ever had to do.

When working toward a fitness goal, pursuing a personal record, or just getting the courage to take that first step towards better health, quotes help. At Heart Rate Monitors USA, we give you tools to stay motivated and quotes are just another example of that. Here are some of our favorites to get you moving:

Some of our favorite fitness quotes:

“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” -Mahatma Gandhi

“Motivation will almost always beat mere talent.” -Norman R. Augustine

“Energy and persistence conquer all things.” -Benjamin Franklin

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.” -Lou Holtz

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” -Jim Ryan

“I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” -Michael Jordan

“Fear is what stops you… courages is what keeps you going.” -Unknown

“The finish line is just the beginning of a whole new race.” -Unknown

“The difference between a goal and a dream is a deadline.” -Steve Smith

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” -Mark Twain

“Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity.” -Oprah Winfrey

Garmin Swim Watch

For awhile, swimmers have been yearning for a top maker of monitoring technology to catch up to their sport. Garmin has decided to take the plunge – literally – with it’s latest roll-out: the Garmin Swim Watch.

It’s not a heart rate monitor, but it’s powerful nonetheless. This swimmer’s watch includes features that can make sw

Features of the Garmin Swim Watch include:

• Length/lap counting
• Distance
• Stroke counting
• Pace
• Calories
• Swolf score (gauges swimming efficiency)
• Stroke type identification
• Log drills
• Start timed intervals
• Quick timer workouts
• Configurable training pages
• Auto-detect rest times
• Sport watch: yes

The Garmin Swim Watch also works for drills with some user input. To see how, just read through the product data here.

It’s compatible with Garmin Connect, it automatically syncs with your computer to transfer data, and it has memory storage of at least 30 workouts. Use the time, date, and alarms to stay on schedule and let the long-lasting battery keep you moving. You’ll get water resistance up to 50 meters, comfortable design, and monitoring features that make it easier than ever to train for your sport.

To get the specifics on what this swimmer’s watch can do, be sure to check out the offical product page for the Garmin Swim Watch.

Place your pre-order for the Garmin Swim Watch today.

Billed as “the first true wrist mounted GPS” by Rob Curtis of the MilitaryTimes.com, the Garmin Fenix is the most highly anticipated model from Garmin since the Forerunner 610. Set to ship sometime in Fall 2012, the Garmin Fenix is going to sell out quick. Luckily, at Heart Rate Monitors USA, you can get your pre-order in well in advance – with some additional savings to boot.

When you pre-order your Garmin Fenix, you’ll get a free $40 gift card with your order, but that’s not all. Each order comes with the Garmin Fenix GPS watch, a users manual, USB cable, and AC adapter with plug.

According to Garmin, the Garmin Fenix is the first GPS navigator+ABC wristwatch to include Garmin GPS navigation. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, it satisfies the lofty requirements of the serious adventurer. It is very easy to use and packed with many of the same features found on Garmin’s popular outdoor handheld GPS products. As a true GPS navigator, it can guide you off the trail and back to the safety of your vehicle, trailhead, campsite or home. All while conveniently strapped to your wrist.

As for features, the Garmin Fenix doesn’t disappoint. It is:

• A high-sensitivity GPS navigator+ABC adventure watch
• Very easy to use with altimeter, barometer and 3-axis compass with automatic sensor calibration
• Waterproof to 50 meters
• Complete with a worldwide basemap
• Able to mark up to 1,000 waypoints and store up to 10,000 track points and navigate to them

It also showcases an exclusive TracBack feature reverses the track log to help navigate back to the starting point, plus it can wirelessly share routes, tracks, waypoints with other compatible Garmin GPS units. Use Bluetooth technology to sync routes, tracks, waypoints and geocaches to select smartphones (Bluetooth Smart Ready devices) using the free Garmin BaseCamp mobile app. Or, if you’d rather, use the free Garmin BaseCamp desktop software.

This GPS watch is compatible with new tempe wireless temperature sensor for more accurate ambient temperature data (sold separately), as well as with the optional Garmin wireless heart rate monitor and cadence sensors.

Take advantage of user profiles available to simplify your tracking, such as Hiking, Running and Cycling. You’ll also get large stopwatch time, distance and pace all on a single screen. Data fields options include heart rate, distance, pace, calories, laps and many more. As for the watch functions, it’s fully loaded with alarms, tones, and vibration alerts.

Let the rechargeable Li-ion battery keep you moving, as it lasts up to 6 weeks in watch mode, 16 to 50-hrs (UltraTrac) in GPS mode. For adventurers, there’s just nothing better.

Pre-Order your Garmin Fenix today at Heart Rate Monitors USA.

Running is a smart and powerful exercise choice, one that can change your life in so many ways. Not only does it improve your physical fitness, but it also lifts your mood and promotes your overall health. Running requires very little effort or equipment to get started, but it sets you on the right track to a better, brighter future.

If you are new to running, you may wonder what to wear. Fortunately, you do not need expensive running clothes or fancy workout gear. Your shoes are your most important running gear. Wearing old shoes, or shoes that are not right for your foot or running style, can lead to injuries. Forget about your old tennis shoes. Look for new, well-cushioned shoes that are specifically designed for running.

While the best shoes are usually found at a running specialty store, you can find a good pair at most shoe or sporting goods stores. Forget about the most expensive shoes in the store, but invest in the best pair you can afford. This will prevent injuries and pay off in comfort.

Fancy running clothing is not necessary either. Choose comfortable workout wear that allows you to move freely, but do not overdress. After a warm-up, your extra body heat can make you feel up to 20 degrees warmer. A cotton t-shirt and shorts are usually adequate clothes for new runners. Depending on your location, winter months and cooler temperatures may require dressing in layers.

Next to comfortable running shoes, a good sports bra is a must for women runners. Your bra should be supportive: not too tight and not stretched-out. Replace your sports bra when it loses elasticity or if you experience a significant weight change.

As you get more serious about your running, you can invest in more technical workout clothes. Synthetic fabrics, unlike cotton, wick away sweat and keep you cooler during your runs. Synthetic blend running socks will prevent blisters on your feet.

With the right sportswear, you are ready to run. Despite your best intentions, you may stumble in the beginning. This usually stems from a lack of preparation. It takes time to break into running, but almost anyone can do it. The secret is starting slowing and building up gradually, as your fitness level improves.

Start your new running program by walking. Gradually add small running segments into your walks. These run-walks may continue over several weeks. Run at an easy, conversational pace for maybe three days a week, resting on the in-between days. Over time, strive to run four or five days a week.

To prevent injuries, always stretch before and after workouts. Eat healthy and stay hydrated to boost your performance. Motivation is hard to maintain, even for seasoned runners; finding a running club or friends to run with can kick-start your running habit. Be sure to check out running magazines and online running forums for inspiration and encouragement (hint, hint: like this blog!)

About the Guest Author: Vanessa is a health and fitness buff who writes about women’s fitness and lifestyle topics.

Polar RCX3

The latest fitness monitor from Polar is a great one and we’re very excited to have these available for pre-order. They’ll be here soon!

What’s the new item? Well, it’s the Polar RCX3 series of heart rate monitors, which come in several varieties to suit your sport as well as the data you’re looking to record. There’s a basic monitor that’s designed for running and fitness, a run edition just for runners, a bike edition that’s designed for cyclists and mutli-sport athletes, and a GPS edition that records valuable training data for runners, cyclists, and multi-sport athletes. Each of these monitors features a sleek design and comes available in black or white. As for features, it doesn’t disappoint.

Polar RCX3 heart rate monitors showcase features such as graphical target zone indicators to tell you where you are in terms of intensity during a workout, heart rate monitoring, Polar Fitness Test, automatic lap recording, compatibility with PolarPersonalTrainer.com analysis tools, sport profiles to help you switch between sports during training, ZoneLock to accumulate desired intensity, ZoneOptimizer personalized sport zones, ZonePointer to show you where you are inside your pre-set target zone, OwnCal for calories burned during a training session, running index score, user-replaceable battery, and much, more. To see a full run-down, check out our Polar RCX3 page, where you can get the skinny on each monitor as well as the accessories included in each bundle to maximize your training.

As for what’s included, here’s what you’ll get with each Polar RCX3 bundle at Heart Rate Monitors USA:

RCX3 Basic 

• Training Computer
• Wearlink+ W.I.N.D. Transmitter
• Instructions

RCX3 Run 

• Training Computer
• Wearlink+ W.I.N.D. Transmitter
• s3+ Stride Sensor
• DataLink Data Transfer Unit Instructions

RCX3 Bike 

• Training Computer
• Wearlink+ W.I.N.D. Transmitter
• CS Speed Sensor W.I.N.D.
• Universal Bike Mount
• DataLink Data Transfer Unit
• Instructions

RCX3 GPS 

• Training Computer
• Wearlink+ W.I.N.D. Transmitter
• G5 GPS Sensor
• GPS Clip
• DataLink Data Transfer Unit
• Instructions

Ready to pre-order your Polar RCX3 heart rate monitor? Check out our Polar RCX3 bundles today and save on this hot new item from Polar.

As the years go by different training styles always emerge and become popular. Currently there are three very common styles being used by most people at the gym. Let’s compare them and give the pros and cons of utilizing each one.

The contenders: Classic Bodybuilding, Circuit Training, and CrossFit.

Circuit Training

This form of training is very popular for newer recruits to the fitness world. Often times, programs that are primarily geared towards weight loss utilize circuit training in an effort to maximize cardio while still obtaining a strength training regime.

Pros: Efficient, good for strength and endurance, easy to learn, fast paced

Cons: Difficult at peak time if the gym is crowded, less isolation, builds less mass due to higher rep ranges

Now a lot of circuit programs are based around machine exercises as they are the easiest things for new people to learn. But you can easily make a great circuit routine using free weights. The key is to use compound exercises that cover the big muscle groups. Circuit programs are great for people who have about an hour to workout over 3 days a week (M/W/F) and you can complete 2 to 4 circuits per session for a great workout.

Classic Bodybuilding

The old standby! This is a time honored tradition that has gotten people in shape for decades. From Arnold to whomever is on the cover of Muscle and Fitness this month, bodybuilding is about creating your body to match the picture in your mind.

Pros: A lot of control about how and what you build, great for strength and size, variety

Cons: Cardio needs to be done in addition, a lot of time is needed

Really most everyone has done some sort of bodybuilding. The broad term covers more than just people competing in fitness competitions. When you are looking to use weights to change the shape of your body you have been bodybuilding. This is the form that most allows you to add size and strength beyond what your body was normally meant to handle in peak condition.

CrossFit

Ah the current crop of exercise programs is lead by this all purpose call to anyone who wants a tight, toned, and athletic physique. It is hard to say anything bad about this program because it is very effective.

Pros: Great workout that covers speed, strength, endurance, and athleticism

Cons: Harder to start for the novice, builds less mass than bodybuilding, best done in a class

The biggest downside to this program is that you need a gym that runs CrossFit classes. This isn’t a program you can just do by yourself at home. But it will be challenging and push your body to a new level. For the active person who wants to compete in athletic endeavors or lead an active lifestyle this is an ideal program for getting in shape and pushing yourself to be the best ‘natural’ version of yourself which is muscular and ripped, but not overly huge.

This post is courtesy of Nutribomb. Visit Nutribomb Discount Bodybuilding Supplements for the information on diet, exercise, and the best supplements on the internet.