Polar RS800CX Heart Rate Monitor Review

The Polar RS800CX Heart Rate Monitor is sold in 4 configurations - basic, multi-sport, cycling or running. Equiped with an altimeter and route mapping software, the HRM watch can measure ascent/descents plus stride and/or cadence.

The Polar RS800CX heart rate monitor comes with Polar ProTrainer 5 software that is useful in analyzing, route mapping and keeping a training journal/diary. It is available in 4 different versions based upon the same wrist unit depending on the user's requirements, including multisport, running, and bike. The RS800CX's strength lies in its extra-long battery life, multisport versatility and a compact, sturdy but elegant watch. It also has an optional GPS accessory support.

The RS800CX has many features, as expected from a high-end HRM, such as automatic and programmable training zones with alarms, interval timers and lap timers, a calorie counter, an altimeter and a plethora of other informative data. The user is saved from being overwhelmed by the sheer amount of features, thanks to clear labeling of the various features and the clarity of the information displayed.

Polar RS800CX Multi Sport Heart Rate Monitor Watch with G3 GPS Sensor W.I.N.D.

The information obtained from the RS800CX can be downloaded onto a PC via the irDA adaptor (which comes included). Using the ProTrainer 5 program that comes along with the RS800CX, the user can access the performance charts and plan future training sessions in detail, upload it to the wrist unit and use it as a guide for future sessions. Unfortunately, the ProTrainer software isn't available for Mac, however, it is compatible with Windows XP and Vista.

The G3 GPS isn't absolutely necessary, but it does help check the route the user ran (or rode) through the ProTrainer 5 via Google Earth (the G1 GPS used in other models can only track speed). If the running version is used, it can be used to display the speed/pace and distance information. The sensor itself is a compact (2.3x2.3in) separate unit that captures GPS satellite signals and transmits the information wirelessly to the wrist unit. The unit then displays and records the speed, distance and elevation data. The G3 sensor is waterproof up to 20m in depth- a bonus for triathletes.

The Polar RS800CX heart rate monitor watch is sleek, compact and well designed. Its display is monochromatic and small at 1.3in but adequate. One advantage of a small display is a very low power usage that increases the amount of time the battery lasts, and it also helps maintain the slim profile of the watch.

The RS800CX wrist unit weighs 46g, uses the CR2032 battery (battery life of 1 year) and is water resistant up to a maximum depth of 50m.