On Jan 10, 2007, at 5:41 PM, Perez, Miguel wrote:

> Dudes and Dudettes,
>
> Since I'm getting more into cardiovascular, aerobic training of late,
> I'm thinking about investing in a good heart rate monitor. Do you have
> any recommendations as to what to look for or which one to get? I
> would
> also like to hear your opinions on good running shoes. Don't want to
> ruin my knees.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Miguel
>

I am 59 years old retired health and physical education teacher in
NJ. A few years ago I decided to take a “spin” class at the gym I
joined. It was one of the best things I have done for my fitness. I
was a long time runner, until my knee showed the wear and tear of
three operations from football and basketball injuries. So I can
comment on the two main concerns you have, a heart monitor and saving
your knees.

I’m using a Polar F6. It was under $100.00, but it all depends what
you want in a watch. The main reason I purchased a more expensive HR
was because in the spin classes my old HR monitor would pick up my
neighbor’s signal. The F6 coded into your signal when you start the
heart rate monitor next to transmitter. You can probably get by with
a lest expensive model if all you want to monitor your heart rate,
but Polar is a good brand.

More importantly, you need to know how to use the heart rate monitor.
Forget the old formula of 220 - your age. It is a shot in the dark
estimate. You need find your own individual maximum heart rate, and
that does not change with age. I recommend finding a book by Sally
Edwards. The one I have is Heart Rate Monitor Guidebook.

As far as shoes are concerned, I would suggest getting a shoe with a
good shock absorption rating. New Balance, Saucony, Reebok, Nike,
etc. all make good shoes. It is more a personal preference in my
opinion. It may take a few purchases before you find the shoe that
suits your pocket and your body.

Along those lines, running is not the only cardiovascular exercise.
It has many great features, but it can cause wear and tear if taken
to excess. Cross training is a good idea physically and
psychologically. I personally became a cyclist when I was told by my
orthopedic physician that I had a knee of a 75 year old man when I
was in my early 30s. I am bone against bone, and hoping to keep my
original knee. Having an arthritic knee does not mean you stop
exercising. Here is a great article in the New York Times about when
it is OK to run hurt, <http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/11/fashion/
11FITNESS.html?em&ex=1168750800&en=edd2246845a7b1b7&ei=5087%0A>.

By the way, what has happened to this list. I was a lurker for years.
There were some great postings and exchange of ideas. Not it is like
a ghost town of a list.

Good luck.

Hank Kearns