Garmin 235 Forerunner - will it interfere with my pacemaker?

Hi there

I am an avid runner and currently training for the Boston Marathon. I am looking at getting a new watch and wanted to know if the Forerunner 235 (built in heart monitor) will be safe to use? Thanks!

6 Comments

Thanks :)

by eastcoastcanuck - 2018-01-19 11:34:07

So is it really worth the extra money? If not I'll go with the lesser brand.

Oximeter

by marylandpm - 2018-01-19 11:41:27

 A oximeter that you place on your finger seems to work as well as anything that I have tried. It gives you a oxygen % and pulse rate. My doctor does not think the oxygen numbers are that accurate but I think the pulse rate is ok.  Durgs store sell them. 

 

 

Why do you need one ?

by IAN MC - 2018-01-19 11:57:31

I have run several marathons and have never felt a great desire to know how fast my heart is beating while I am running.  " How You Feel " really does give you a clue.  If you are feeling good,  try running faster . if you are getting progressively breathless then slow down.

I believe there is evidence that the devices are less accurate as exercise intensity increases but they won't affect your pacemaker.

I know it is very fashionable to wear wrist devices but I can't help thinking about the millions of people around the world who have already run marathons without Garmins, Fitbits etc

Just my view ... but best of luck in the Boston whatever you decide

Ian

 

Garmin

by eastcoastcanuck - 2018-01-19 11:58:26

I need a Garmin I was just asking about the wrist heart monitor.

Garmin

by BobbyJohn - 2018-01-19 14:09:11

My EP at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester Minnesota said they have zero effect on a Pacer. Good luck with your training and Marathon....to get to run Boston would be HUGE!  Again - all the best! 

Monitor that works for me

by WillieG - 2018-01-19 14:11:16

I have a Garmin Forerunner 220 that is paired with a Scosche arm band.  It measures HR and transmits to the Garmin.  I have worn it several times in the cardiac lab and it corresponds exactly to what the EKG is reading. Other monitors, esp the Fitbit, became very inaccurate especially when exercising.  I like to know my HR no and then and have found this monitor to work very well with a PM.

Good luck and let us know what works for you!

Wilma

 

 

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