Super awesome new HRM

I've been using a Polar heart rate monitor for a couple years -- in fact, it's the only kind I've ever owned. But lately, mine hasn't been working as well as I'd like. I'd have to be really sweaty to get my heart rate to transmit. Even worse, the readout was unreliable when I was out running. I don't know if I was bouncing around too much or what, but more often than not, when I'd go to check my heart rate I'd see something ridiculous like "48" or, even worse, nothing at all.

Having an accurate heart rate monitor has gotten even more critical now that I'm being strict about staying in my most efficient range during long runs. And what do you know, SuperAthlete J has the best one ever. Not only does it have a spot-on HRM, it also has GPS -- which means that it will track distance while you run. And it's loaded with tons of other helpful features and measurements to help make the most of a workout.

After doing a couple runs with SAJ and enviously eyeing her fantastic gizmo, I couldn't help myself: I got one too. And here's a shameless REI plug: that's also where I bought my Polar. Last year, it stopped working -- the sensors on the chest strap wouldn't transmit to the watch. I went to the store to see if I could get a new strap, and instead they replaced everything in a straight exchange. I came away with a new strap AND a new watch. Fast forward to last week, when I went to REI to buy SAJ's HRM (hello, acronym festival). I just happened to bring my Polar watch and strap along with me, in case they'd be willing to make an exchange ... lo and behold, they did. Getting $110 in exchange credit really helped offset the $350 price tag on my deluxe new gadget. A ton of money, but in my opinion, so worth it.

It's made by Garmin and this is what it looks like:

Here's a link to its page on the REI site:

http://www.rei.com/product/767424

How I love this amazing new thing. But good gravy, I've got to figure out a way to save a little money on gear.