Review: A Real Workout with the Polar F11 Heart Rate Monitor [Part 1]

Just like the Garmin Forerunner 305, I had heard a lot about the Polar F11. This polar Heart Rate Monitor has also won numerous awards for innovation so that was a plus in my books. So I decided to call my buddies at the local Gym and see if they had one that I could try out. Thankfully, they did have a couple with them. After picking up the Polar F11, I entered the necessary data and took it for a test run.

Polar F11

Design and Style Features

Right off the bat, the Polar F11 is not that bad looking. It has a sort of “Macho” aura to it. With its wide display screen and large buttons, it is just right for training. There is no hassle or fuss trying to see the display screen or press buttons when you are out on your run. One thing that frustrates me a lot is when I am deep into my workout (especially running) and trying to fiddle with small buttons and display options. It can really put you off your training and set you back.

Training Tools – Keeps U Fit

The first thing you do with the Polar F11 is to input your data or stats. This is done through the new feature known as “Keep U Fit”. This program works by taking information from a fitness test that you undergo. It takes a measure of your resting heart rate and tells you the level of fitness that you have. From the information that it acquires, you than tell the heart watch (by way of options) if you want to maintain and maximize fitness or improve on it.

With all the data, the F11 will create a fitness and training plan and schedule for you. It provides you with details like the amount of time (in hours) you should spend working out. It will also provide heart rate zones and tell you how long you should spend within those zones. In simpler terms, it tells you at what intensities you should be working out on.

Wow! All that from a heart rate monitor. I Know! I was amazed at all the information that the Polar F11 gathers. With this training tool, who needs a fitness trainer.

There is a lot that the Polar F11 provides. This first part of my review was on the preparation stage or the initial stage of the Polar F11. The next part of the review will go into details on how the Polar F11 fares on the road. I will also be answering the questions on whether the 4 star rating out of 5 on Amazon.com by users is justified.

Here is the second part to the Review:

A Real Workout with the Polar F11 Heart Rate Monitor [Part 2]