I knew I saw something about HR training here--still finding my way around Kickrunners! Anyway, there is a thread in the "Race" area about HR monitors and how to make use of them: <a href="http://www.kickrunners.com/forum/showthread.php?t=8956" target="_blank">http://www.kickrunners.com/forum/showthread.php?t=8956</a><br><br>
If low heartrate training is something you might be interested in, I would recommend reading this: <a href="http://formationflier.spaces.live.com/" target="_blank">http://formationflier.spaces.live.com/</a> (It's also in the above Kickrunner thread)<br><br>
I don't necessarily follow the LHR training completely, but I use my HR monitor to make sure that my "easy" effort runs are exactly that. I have been able to increase my mileage this summer and not get injured. I agree with Liam that running by feel is much more enjoyable and if it works for you, I would leave the electronics at home. However, if you know you are prone to pushing your limits on runs and want the feedback on your effort level, a heartrate monitor is a valuable tool. My impression from the above links is that low heartrate training is most beneficial for those who run a lot of miles, but maybe someone more experienced would have a different opinion.<br><br>
You will find a variation in the numbers for several reasons....not a great connection (make sure the electrodes are wet before putting on the HR strap), heat and humidity, your stress level, amount of sleep you got the night before, hydration, etc.... You may be able to run a little faster some days than others, depending on all these different factors.<br><br>
Hope that helps!