Polar RS300X

Bottom Line

Using the Polar RS300X is like having a personal trainer on your wrist. Its Smart Coaching features track and measure your fitness progression, and keep you on target to meet your goals.

Performance

Smart Coaching means results. The RS300X incorporates Polar's Smart Coaching software, which includes features such as Fitness Test, OwnZone, Smart Calories and Training Load. The Polar Fitness Test can measure fitness levels accurately in five minutes based on resting heart rate and personal data, and works with OwnZone to create optimal training zones to improve fitness. OwnZone guides users through a workout, indicating when to walk, jog, run and more.

Smart Calories uses the wearer's profile to accurately report calories burned during a workout. Training Load balances the need for rest and exercise by recommending when you should go all-out during your workout and which days are better spent relaxing. Owner reviews praise the Smart Coaching features, claiming positive results.

The RS300X can work with the Polar GPS module (*Est. $130) to track distance and speed. If users frequently run indoors, the Polar S1 foot pod (*Est. $50) attaches to shoelaces to track speed, distance and cadence. Interval timing allows the user to record lap times, and you can upload workout data to your PC or use the tools available at PolarPersonalTrainer.com to set up your training and monitor your progress. However, that requires the purchase of the Polar FlowLink module (*Est. $50).

Ease Of Use

Big features, small screen. Several users say the display of the Polar RS300X is too small and difficult to read. Others, particularly those new to heart-rate monitors, find its many features to be too much to handle. For novices, a basic heart-rate monitor like the Polar FT1 (*Est. $45) might be a better choice.

The RS300X's batteries and wristband aren't user-replaceable, and Polar advises owners to send the unit back to the manufacturer to change the battery, which lasts approximately two years. That's a source of some annoyance among owners.

Ownership

Long warranty. Polar provides a lengthy two-year warranty with the RS300X, and relatively few users post complaints regarding customer service. However, reports regarding other Polar products are mixed. Some owners call customer service excellent and phenomenal, but others say it "leaves something to be desired."