First
off, you don't have to. A heart rate monitor is not an essential
training aid however in my opinion there are many advantages for
all cyclist at all levels and if top cyclists use them for training
and racing, that's good enough for me. Also with them starting
at prices of less than £40 you won't get a better training aid
or partner for the price AND it's a reliable partner.
What are the advantages of using an HRM?
First an HRM can help you be specific in your training. This is
of particular advantage if you're short of time. Therefore, whether
you want an aerobic session, an AT session, a recovery session,
or you are performing intervals; your HRM will help you put in
the correct effort.
An HRM can indicate if you need a rest, can indicate the early
onset of illness, or can indicate over training.
An HRM will never let you down (unless the battery goes flat),
unlike training partners that have family commitments, get injured,
ill etc.
A
HRM is a great addition to your turbo training, giving you something
else to check and helping the time pass more quickly. One is also
essential if you are going to perform pyramids etc. See turbo
training.
Finally, there's something reassuring about a frequent little
beep from your HRM when you're out on a ride by yourself. It may
sound sad but I find a heart rate monitor the best training partner
I have and I rarely go out training without it.
For
a wide selection of the best heart rate monitors from POLAR,
click the name.
How
a HRM works
Working
out your training levels
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