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Timex Ironman 5F011 Heart Rate Monitor Bodylink System Review
Timex Ironman 5F011 Heart Rate Monitor
Retail : $300
Of all the Timex Bodylink / Ironman heart rate monitors the Timex Ironman 5F011 is the one that most suits athletes - fitness enthusiasts. Runners, cyclists, skiers, rowers, triathletes etc, will all benefit from the inclusion of 8x (eight) heart rate training zones and 4 x interlinked countdown timers (for intervals), with additional warm up and cool down timers. Optionally, if used with the new 3D GPS unit (included) , the Timex 5F011 can provide both vertical and horizontal performance data including altitude.
Heart rate was 100% accurate even while running next to others wearing other units. Polar, Suunto, other Timex, no interference.
The GPS unit took a few minutes to lock in and dropped a couple of times during the test run, but overall performed better than my $600 Suunto. I expected that as all of them have that problem on the first run, and on the second test run, in locked in quicker.
Timex have 100% got it all together in this great modular unit. They have added multi heart rate zone training, interval sessions and 3D functionality. A combination of heart rate zones, optional speed / pace zones, auto-lapping, time based intervals plus Finish Time predictor (when using GPS 3D unit) make this unit truly universal for all outdoor sports. For fitness training, the best new feature is the FINISH TIME preditcor. You tell it you are running a 10K, it works out your finish time based on current speed and distance travelled so far. This is continually updated while you run to help you achieve your Personal Best.
With the addition of the 5G751 Data Recorder 2 and view your workout over a map using gpsvisualizer.com or other mapping software to actually see how hard your heart was pumping up that hill, etc.. Its an additional tool thats worth purchasing if you are serious, retails at $75, can find on net for less.
The book took a while to digest as this unit is FULL of features and customizable options. Three manuals come with it and I'd recommend tinkering with it before you go out and try to run a very important event. Sure, one of the manuals is how to put on the chest strap and the other is about the GPS sensor, but Its worth the time to go over then manuals, as theres a lot of nice features that aren't obvious in the beginning. Everything thats full of options come with manuals, so I don't consider that a negative, but to some it could be daunting. Sure, you can juts put it on and run, but that would be like taking a Ferrari out and keeping it in 1st gear..
Pros: Timex, Size, features.
Cons: GPS lock in speed, three manuals.
Summary: If you are a serious athlete, wanting a serious tool for training and don't mind read the book once or twice - this is the tool for you.
Overall: 4.8 of 5 Stars.
www.greatwestsports.com
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