Stryd Running With Power Unboxing, Setting Up and Your First Run

Running With Power
Training with power as a set of data has helped cyclists and triathletes to train smarter taking into consideration of their effort (energy) vs aerobic (HR). This is true when you look at power as a fixed figure vs HR that is effected by your physical (rest, sleep, food) and mental (feeling, other priorities). A workout performed at 100w is 100w be it at a HR of 130bpm or 160bpm. Personally for me, when i raced a short distance triathlon, I will push at my threshold, or in cycling speak, Functional Threshold Power (FTP). For a longer distance races, I keep the effort up to 75% FTP, which is at a level where I am at a full aerobic stage with a lot of energy to spare. 

Cycling power data of two races  -Ironman Langkawi 180km bike and PD Tri 40km bike

Secured

Now, how about running? How will power as a metric/data help you to potentially improve? We all know that running is a function of aerobic capacity (HR) but this metric alone is highly fluctuating based on your own well being; not sufficient rest/sleep - fluctuates, hungry - fluctuates, stress - fluctuates. So your effort to run your best 5k today is greatly dependent on how you generally feel. Now imagine if you can take that out of the equation, and still derive a workout with/at sufficient effort, and gain benefit out of it, even if you aren't feeling up to it. Welcome to Running and Training with Power.

Stryd (Version 4) Wind
I first know about Stryd via DC Rainmaker site (the gold standard of technical review which I try to emulate in my blog here).

Stryd came into the scene in 2015, with their first running power meter which is in the shape of a pod (Version 1), clipped to the back of your shorts, in the middle of your body; which is very similar to the Garmin Running Dynamic Pod that was launched a few years later.

It then evolved to a chest unit (Version 2), which is similar to how Garmin first introduced their HRM-Run that has power capability algorithm.

Then the Version 3 to a pod where you clipped on your shoe that we are all familiar with today and are technically higher accuracy than a pod that is clipped to your back or your chest. Within Version 3, there were a few iteration as well, and mostly got to do with how the unit charges (wirelessly) and even one unit that doesn't report power, like why even. 

Then in 2019, Version 4 was introduced that takes into account the wind factor, effectively making the device ability to churn out even more data at higher accuracy. Having said that, Stryd's existence is not to measure distance (vs satellites) - it is a running power meter. Other information derived from the algorithms is supplementing the data to help you understand your run over period of time.

Came ready charged for runs

Unboxing And Setting Up

I never used Stryd before, and often intrigue of what it can do, and how it will integrate with the ecosystem that I have been using for a long time. Many questions came to my mind - being a footpod, is my distance then overridden by Stryd and the Satellite just "mark" where I run? How is the Running Dynamics going to differ that it is now on the foot, and not on the chest, particularly my Vertical Oscillation? Will Stryd now make me a better runner? Will it regress me with my ongoing training? Only one way to find out and I will try to share what I know in this post, hopefully over the last 30 odd days of using it. First of all, the unboxing video, which was uploaded into my YouTube channel

In case the video is not your choice of engagement, these items are in the box that came with the unit.

A folding card with all the instructions you ever need

Stryd Power Centre which is where all workout and records are stored

No longer the induction/wireless charging, it's now a clip-on

two attachment clips - fav orange

likely end up as spare...

micro-usb cable for use with the charging cradle

what's behind the box

and the charging cradle with the Stryd unit+USB cable. The unit will glow orange as it's charging

Pairing with your mobile

The following series of photos and explanation will help give you an understanding of what goes behind linking the Stryd to a mobile device app, and subsequently to the watch, in this case, my Garmin Fenix 6Pro Solar.

First of all, get the Stryd App from your iOS or Playstore. Simple easy step. For this example, it will be on iOS Version 14 (and i've verified Ver 15 no issues as well). You can scan the QR code on the card that comes with the unit (unboxing above).

Step 1

Then, you sign in if you have an account (which technically, you won't if this is your first time using it) or if like me, completely new to this, sign up for an account.

Step 2: Sign Up

Of course you can scroll through what other stuff there are on the other two dots which you can flip through.

Yeap, that is what I am here for

You have no idea what I do outside of work...

Step 3: complete the registration

Give yourself a selfie😁

At this stage, it is really all about completing the registration and ensuring all data is accurate to the level you felt your privacy isn't breached. I've tested, the most critical must be as accurate as possible, is your weight. That should remain as constant as possible and try not to change it unless there are significant changes as to keep the power ratio accurate.

Remember to get this page correct - else you end up with Imperial units, and wrong analysis. You can of course change the Goal Race, no issues.

Next, keep the Stryd close to the phone, so it can be paired with the app. Rather seamless.

No code, no other prompt. If it links, it will. One Stryd per phone.

Tadaa!

After pressing continue, you have the option to check for any firmware update. I strongly suggest that you do this, in case there are. In my case, there were none. 

Yay!

Pairing with your Device

It is worthy to note that Stryd can be a standalone unit without using any watch or devices. It actually auto record once it sense movement/cadence more than 130 strides per minute, and will continue to record for up to 4 minutes after the movement/cadence reduced to less than 130 strides per minute (spm). It also auto-off and will transfer the data when you force sync it with your phone.

However, without a device, your won't get the full immersive feel of workout prompt (vibration or audio) and you may have to rely on memory to remember your workout - and at minimum will need a watch with chronograph (stop watch) function, or a physical, yeah, stop watch. 

wide variety of brands that will work well with Stryd

As I am a Garmin user, clicking on that option brings me to connect and sync my Garmin Connect account with Stryd.

General disclaimers

making you aware what you will be sharing

Yes. I agree. Else, i won't get access to them, right? 😋

Once all the agreement has been accepted, Stryd will ask you to download the "Stryd Zones" data field. You may need to have Garmin Connect app on your phone, or better, the Garmin IQ app (Garmin version of playstore/appstore)

Just click through, no drama

Once prompted, click install.

Allow

Now, go back to your Garmin Connect App, and make sure you sync the watch/devices a few times. This is important to ensure that the Data Field is installed, and ready for you to put it as one of the Data page. 

Stryd Zone Data Field

Follow the instructions if you are not sure how to set it as Data Field

Likely the most comprehensive lists of instructions that Garmin can't match themselves

Take note, some older models require you to switch off satellite and rely on Stryd for pace. This meant, no mapping

Done for the data field!

After installing this Data page, you have options in this Data field that you can further tweak. 

Press Settings

Default Setting of the Datafield

This is my setting that I want to see as my Datafield under the Run activity

Save and you are almost there!

How the Data Field will look like. Your 3second average will be shown at the top, actual real time power in the middle, and the power zone at the bottom. Visual zone bar won't be visible until you obtain your CP (hence mine when i tested in the first few days, showed none)

Other tweaks you can do within the Powercenter is to allow the App to give permission to your Apple devices.

This i believe, is also to allow Apple Health to sync some information, particularly your weight across all the platforms

full control over what you want to allow Apple to know

I usually keep this off, but for full experience sake, I kept this enabled, to know what notifications that comes in

After using it for 30+ days, the only notification you will get is when your Critical Power (CP) are updated.

I have not dabble into this yet, but if i do, I will share what this has vs the free program!

The overview of the paid membership is way more extensive than the free version. I was using this device as a free membership for about 28 days, before being given the privilege and access to the full features. If you want to know what you can see being a paid subscription, the follow few captures will give you the details. I will share more in another separate write up, having experience both free and paid - and give you my thoughts.

Data Only or Free is sufficient if you are an experience runner

Paid membership start to show more features

Intelligent Training including more insight into your training

Membership starts from USD9.99 monthly reccuring, to USD99 for a year (best value)

This write up is based on Data Only or free program. Which is good to start and for you to determine your need. 

At time of activating this, there was only one option of the program. A week ago, Stryd has provided more "free" plans for you to work on.

Highly recommended to sign up for the introduction plan which is 14 days long. If you aren't ready, you can press Continue, and then skip it in the next page (like I did)

Once you are done, it finally will show you this page, and you are now, ready for your run with Power. Take note of the timestamp, from start to finish, it took me about 43mins, with a lot of screenshots taken, and making sure I pen down my experience. You may take much shorter time than me to do it.

Phew, felt like a workout itself isn't it?

Preparing your Garmin with Stryd

Another important application you should install into your Garmin device is the "Stryd Workout App", which is a standalone running app (as Garmin call the activities) that will sync the Stryd Powercenter workouts to your Garmin separately. Click here to download to your watch or use the Garmin ConnectIQ to do so.

Install this Activity or in Garmin speak - "App"

This app will do a few things:

1. Sync your workout from your Stryd Powercenter to your device

2. Allow you to perform the workout, so it will be better reflected in the Powercenter

3. Show 3-pages of data, of which one is dedicated to just POWER with indication of remaining time, and effort you need to put in. Two other data page with quad (split to 4) display is available

Once installed, you can set the App as your "favourite", like I did on my Fenix 6Pro Solar

Turns green once you has the Stryd locked and the GPS locked

On matter of the Data screen, I set it up this way, as I can then see what I wanted to, limited by the quad or 4 way split available. You have option for a 2-way split as well, but I want more data on one page (my default pre-Stryd page is the DozenRun data screen with no less than 8-data in one screen, color coded)

Option for 4-split

Option for 2-split

For the Quad-split, One data page shows these which is material for me: Power, Pace, Heart Rate and Distance. 

In the second data page, i replaced HR with Timer, so i see the amount of time I am using for the training. As you can see now, my training is very much based on these two outcome - distance and timing. It need to be quality workout due to the time-constraints I have running 99% during lunch hour.

Timer is important as most of the workout on Stryd is time based to measure effort/power.

Link Stryd to Your Garmin

This is the same steps if you want to add any sensor. Straight forward with just pressing Select Menu > Settings > Sensors > Add Sensor. Bring the Stryd close to the device and wait for the magic to happen. You may see it as Stryd Footpod or as FP-XXXX which where the XXXX may be unique to your Stryd. 

Ready To Rock! Lets Go!

Linked as ANT+ device not BLE

Securing Stryd To Your Shoe

While this seems to be straight forward and direct, i was reminded of two things by Big Big Place (that made me their Stryd Ambassador) - that to ensure the "wind" portion is not blocked when placing the unit, and to SECURE the unit correctly - check and triple check or risk losing it in the run.

By now you know, i read manuals

Step 1 : Bottom of the lace, make sure doesn't cover the hole

Step 2: There is only ONE wide end. You can't go wrong here.

Step 3: press it down firmly and ensure the front is snapped/clicked in place

Always check that the unit is indeed secured and clicked/snapped in place 

And the hole, it is NOT blocked.

You are now ready.
Learning To Stryd

At the time I started using the unit, the Stryd (free) plan only has one option for training.

Highly recommended

You choose which date you want to start. I started mine on September 24th

Then you go to the Stryd Power App (activity)>Workout

Press Fetch Workout. Make sure your phone with Stryd Powercenter App is log in for this

Anticipation... haha

Synced and ready!

Select the Day 1, and you are ready to go. 

I greatly suggest that if you are new to running with power, the write up and guidance in the Powercenter. I personally find it very useful coming in very new to training with power.

Very detailed and good understanding on what it is like running with power the first time

There is a link to a Youtube to explain more, if you do not like reading :D

Once you are done with the run, it get synced into your Garmin and Stryd Powercenter, and it will tell show you the data that is collected. without going into details, this is how the user interface looked like post a run with Stryd.

Each boxes can be toggled, and you can see a larger view of each data

clicking on each of the Split will show you data that relates to that section

Hungry for data? These are for your analysis. You have full control over what you want to show, see and how you want it to be presented in your Powercenter.

To fit your liking what you want to see

You can also export them to other platform such as Strava, Training Peaks, Final Surge and it will display these data in a format you are more familiar with. These are non-device brand specific applications, and some has locked premium features to help you understand some data more indepth.

If you get two uploads in your Strava, as an example, disable one of the "connected". In my case, Garmin Connect is all I need as it links to other app I have as well.

Like i mentioned earlier in the write up, Stryd works even without a smart device. All you need is the Powercenter App, and you can sync the runs, each of them into the app for further analysis. 

Press "Sync Stryd". Make sure the device is near you

Syncing 18 (previous) runs

Successfully synced.

If you are like me, where I've linked my Garmin Connect (or your Device brand app) to Stryd, you will get another set of data without maps. That is specific to Stryd run that was recorded and kept in your Stryd until it is synced manually. You will notice some minor differences, as the unit starts recording when your strides per minute is above 150spm, and stop recording 3-4mins after the strides reduced below 150spm. You will get some lower power reading, or extended timing, or additional distance. Most important is you are comfortable with data you are seeing and compare it only against what you always use.

Info!

If you only need ONE set of data per run, don't need to sync, or delete the one you do not want. Why this is important is that the Powercenter will report them as a accumulation of your workout - and you get double Running Stress Score (RSS), time, distance, including your gear mileages... not great if you are tracking your mileage religiously.

We have reached the end of this pretty extensive unboxing, setting up and doing your first run using Stryd. As I am new to this as well, there is a whole opportunity for me to share as I go along. I have started an IG Story Highlight with my journey to attempt/break my 5km personal best. If you are interested, I post everyday, in small bits and pieces, so that you will get an insight to what I do in my journey. Give me a follow here on my Instagram or if you just want to view the highlight, this is the 5k journey specifically. Come back to this blog again for more sharing! Until then, keep showing up!

This unit of Stryd is provided by BigBigPlace as their Stryd Ambassador. Purchase your Stryd directly from BigBigPlace here (and it has 6-months membership included), or you can reach out to me (comment below) to find out more.

Read More

Garmin HRM-PRO Review

Thank you Garmin Malaysia for the HRM-Pro and the Fushia Garmin Tshirt!

Today I received a package from Garmin Malaysia and as part of my collaboration with AECO Technologies (the distributor of Garmin in Malaysia), they shared an unit of the most advanced Heart Rate Monitor (HRM) with me known as the HRM-Pro. I considered myself very late to this HRM pro, as it was released circa September 2020. My current HRM Run (in service close to 3 years) will be retired as it starts to give erratic readings, and I just bought a brand new (original) strap for it 😞

Unboxing

The evolution of the Garmin HRM started off with the basic HRM that only read HR. Then the HRM-Run came along that offers reading of Running Dynamic that return even more data to the users. The HRM-Run was the "gold standard" for Garmin until the HRM-Tri came about, because triathletes love their data and wanted to know how their HR is like while swimming (Running Dynamic is available in Tri). In case you missed it, HRM does not transmit inside water. HRM-Tri solve this with the ability to store HR data while it's not transmitting to the watch/device, and sync once you are out of water. Then, in January 2020, the HRM-Dual were introduced, which brought in both ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity. This essentially allowed for greater connectivity across many different devices - and this include treadmills. 

Dual Transmission ANT+ and Bluetooth

However, the HRM-Dual do not have the Running Dynamic of Run/Tri nor the ability to store data like the HRM-Tri. In come the HRM-Pro, which put all of these features together in a (Garmin Malaysia Retail Price of) RM620 strap.

Packaging of Garmin HRM has never actually changed for a long time. While my HRM-Run came with the Fenix3HR that I got almost 4 years ago (bundled), the HRM-Tri came in the same sized box as HRM-Pro. There is only one printed side at the back with more descriptions. 

Non-descriptive, really

The unit is nicely packed inside, with the multi-lingual manual, the HRM and a piece of quick-start illustration which was really cute and self-explanatory. Great for those that do not flip through manuals.

Box is proper open from the bottom - in case you like me, want to keep the box

So now that we know the HRM-Pro is the combination of Dual and Tri, with super-fast data syncing to your Connect app as a bonus. This would meant any off-device activities that does not involve impact to the chest/sternum area (where the HRM-Pro) will reside, can be used. You can now wear just the HRM-Pro for your game of soccer, hockey, basketball, martial arts and still get HR data, steps count, Intensity and calorie expenditure. I skipped swimming as you would want to wear your watch to record your SWOLF, stroke types and lap count/distance (which requires hand movements, pushing off wall, and of course satellite signal for open water swim).

From the manual and specifications, I found out that the HRM-Pro can do these:

• It allows for concurrent Bluetooth & ANT+ Connectivity, up to two BT, and unlimited ANT+. You can literally broadcast this to all devices of any brands (that support ANT+ and BT), any type (bike trainer, treadmills, wrist devices, cycling devices, phone, Apps like Strava or Virtual Runs Zwift).
• It is the first Garmin HRM that links directly to the Garmin Connect app (mobile phone).
• Yes. Running Dynamics, which meant you get the usual data and estimated power (for Power, I use the Garmin widget as one of the data page).
• Yes. Swim with it. Your HR data synced the moment you leave the water. 
• Yes. Without your Garmin device, all your steps, intensity, calories, stored and sync-ed to your True-Up devices (Garmin) which unify a one-stop-shop data centre.
• No. It does not create a workout file if you are using it as a standalone device. Unlike the watch that automatically "guess" your workout type and start to track it as if it's a workout, so you can save it later as a workout, if needed.
• HRM-Pro battery status. No more guessing if your HRM has battery issues. (CR2032 replacement same as HRM-Tri)

Everything in the box, unboxed.

Should you consider to purchase this? If you already have the HRM-Run, this is a nice upgrade, more so if you are like me, the HRM-Run is already faulty. If you have the HRM-Tri, maybe so if you want the off-device tracking, but to me that is hard to justify. If you are on the HRM-Dual, almost no reason to get this especially if you do not have a Garmin device as you would not be able to maximise the "true-up" function or derive the Running Dynamic that is inherently Garmin. 

Upclose

More Details

Comparing this strap to HRM-Tri makes a lot more sense as they are technically built the same way. Obviously when compared to the older HRM-Run, it is a major upgrade in terms of material quality, comfort and fitting. However, unlike the HRM-Run, the transmitting unit is fixed to the strap and can't be removed. So, if the strap doesn't outlast the transmitter, it will be an expensive replacement, vs being able to buy just the strap (either original or 3rd party).

HRM-Pro in green and HRM-Tri in blue

What is on the strap of Pro and Tri - with differences in name, and symbol of ANT+, and Bluetooth

Absolutely no differences in material, finishing and quality

Same for the other receptor side

Even the hook, the same

If there is one difference i can recall, was that the HRM-Tri came with an extender to allow for usage beyond 42inches chest girth. HRM-Pro doesn't provide this as additional. Perhaps the feedback from users that it was never needed for most that were using it. So, if you have wider chest girth, and need the extender, do check on the availability with Garmin when you plan to purchase this.

The unit, like the HRM-Tri, is water resistant to 50m or 5ATM. Unlikely to create any issue if you are using it for open water swim, or if you are using it for diving in a recreational dive (up to 39m depth), and obviously would not work if you are into free-diving or diving deeper than 50m depth. The working temperature is between -10DegC to 50DegC, which may not be applicable for many of us in Malaysia where I am. Taking all these into consideration, there is no issues for me specifically to use this unit in Malaysia, and generally for most of the folks unless they are doing extreme temperature/weather sports.

Linked via Bluetooth and ANT+

Work Out Of The Box

Linking the HRM-Pro to the mobile Garmin Connect app very fast. It showed up almost immediately once I wear the strap and when I tapped to activated the Garmin Connect app.

The wonder of Bluetooth speed of connectivity

I linked the HRM-Pro on the Garmin Connect first before the Fenix6ProSolar so I could appreciate the Dual-ability of the connection. It was easy and fast.

Let's Go!

Connecting

All done within 1-min (1232hours)

Including updating the unit firmware which was seamless and fast in terms of easiness. There is a pause as there is no feedback after the unit was upgraded to 7.40. To reconnect, i killed the Connect App, and toggle the Bluetooth, and I was back.

Once connected, you have these two options

Clicking on GENERAL you will get these option, including battery indicator

Always a good option to update before continue usage

OK. Lets go (already)

Sending Updates status at bottom

Pressing OK will disconnect the device so it could update 

it will disconnect, and you need to toggle your Bluetooth to reconnect

all done!

Pairing to your Device

Pretty straight forward and you can do it via the Setting -> Accessories/Sensor - >Add New function. If you have any issue to link them, i suggest you disconnect it from Bluetooth and the Garmin App for the initial pairing. 

On the Fenix 6, press the left middle button and scroll to Sensors & Accessories

Pretty straight forward

Add New

You can Search All Sensors or scroll to External Heart Rate

I rather the device work harder 😋

Once found, just select to Add

Done, easy peasy lemon squeezy

Usage during activity

The HRM-Pro function just like the HRM-Tri and HRM-Run (stating them both only as these are my only other experience within past 4 years moving from basic HRM, to Wrist HRM). The reading is stable and smooth. Running Dynamic reading is as expected. Accuracy wise seems consistent with my usage of HRM-Run, HRM-Tri and Running Dynamic Pod. 

Remember to allow the sensor to pair up before pressing START. It usually will link up pretty fast unless your skin is dry. Nothing some water can't solve. In Malaysia, we do not have such issue due to our high humidity level. Once you are ready to go (aka Satellite locked and all sensors ready to go), it will start recording at the press of Start. 

Snapshot of my interval run using HRM-Pro (first use)

When compared to the run I did using the HRM-Tri, the build up and consistency is similar. No spikes or irregular readings.

Snapshot of the earlier interval run using HRM-Tri (most recent)

When it comes to Running Dynamic, the data is the same as using the HRM-Tri as with the HRM-Run. The HRM-Pro as expected gave reading for the respiration as well as long as your device, in my case, the Fenix6 Pro Solar, supports it. 

HRM-Pro data

vs HRM-Tri.

HRM-Tri Data

How much really does the data differ if you are using just the Wrist-based HRM? Not much if you are looking at average, but quite significant if you are looking at spikes and fluctuation. These are normal as the sensor has limitation due to color of skin, sweat and overall fitting of the device over your wrist. Should you be critical of these data? I would say not really if your workout is classified as "easy" and almost running by feel (can talk, sing). 

Notice the spike and fluctuation without a chest HRM. Running Data possible with Running Dynamic Pod

And without the chest HRM, the device would not be able to read your respiration rates.

Running Dynamic is possible as I am using the Running Dynamic Pod

As you can see now, the usage of chest HRM for me is only when I am doing more demanding run (tempo, interval, race, and above), as I would want to be as accurate as possible to detect any changes to my Maximum HR, my Lactate Threshold HR and my Lactate Pace. All these help me to plan and shape my training more solidly for self-improvement.

Usage as standalone HRM-Pro 

I am sucker for data. Whenever my Fenix6 Pro Solar is being charged, I use my Fenix5x Plus to record my HR and steps primary. Now with the HRM-Pro, i have the option to just use it for this purpose while my Fenix6 is being charged (typically within 2-hours to full charge). The ability of the HRM-Pro to keep/save data and sync on the Garmin Connect app got me intrigued and so, i wore it while watching TV last Saturday evening.

There are gaps in the data!

I realized there are gaps in the reading and it occurs to me those were the time the HRM-Pro went to sleep due to no Bluetooth connection to the phone (and hence Garmin Connect app) as I left my phone to charge and out of the BT range. but when it is in range like post my evening walk, dinner, and post phone connection/in-range, it showed records. 

Lazy TV time on Saturday evening with ZERO movement. HRM-Pro not connected to Phone (out of Bluetooth range)

Not happy with the outcome because I want to be certain the HRM-Pro does what it is supposed to do aka record off-device, today (August 16), i decided to test the connectivity again while my device is being charged from 40%. I put on the HRM-Pro and it recorded like charm while linked to the Garmin Connect app via Bluetooth. Using it exclusively without the Fenix6 on my wrist (for a moment i was having device-separation anxiety as now i don't get my SPO2 reading, but in the name of this review, it's a small sacrifice i am making 😏)

HR with Movement. I stand at work, often stretch while standing.

So, i guessed the HRM-Pro does what it is supposed to do if it is off the Garmin device. Only caveat is if your phone with active Bluetooth and Garmin App is running in the background. I won't worry too much about the battery life (of the phone of strap) if you are more inclined to record everything. But do know that there are limitation and it is the active connection and in-range of these to communicate outside of your active Bluetooth connection when you are not doing any activities.

So how do the HRM-Pro then detect your data if you are not wearing your watch, or has it paired to your phone while you were doing activities (like swim, run, bike, martial art, soccer, basketball etc?). This is where this one step is important. Do remember that the HRM-Pro has no ability to create a workout automatically, it takes the prompt from the device it is linked to.

Before you start your activity, you have to make sure the HRM-Pro and your device is paired up and recognized before you press START (example like activating it as as activity; RUN, BIKE, SWIM, CARDIO, HIKE, HIIT). Then the HRM-Pro will know that it need to start storing and recording your data san the watch or the device is transmitting without any receiver (device), like when you swim with the HRM-Tri. And once you are near/connected to the watch again, it will download the data (like the HRM-Tri).

This explain why no data were recorded when you were not doing any activities and not connected to your phone, like when i was just wearing it to watch TV on a lazy Saturday evening.

Care for your HRM-Pro

Having the experience of using different HRM-straps from the most basic to this most advanced model, the care for the HRM-strap is easy. While the older units allow the transmitting unit to be separated from the strap, the newer one doesn't do that. The documentation can be found here.

The rule of thumb with HRM strap are:

• Avoid machine washing the straps
• Hand rinse in cold water after every use as you just want to remove salt (from sweat)
• Hand wash once every 7-usage, or if you use them once a day, that is once a week.
• If you are using it for pool (chlorinated) swim, wash it with mild detergent after every use.
• Use only mild detergent, or just tiny amount of washing, soap, shower gel
• Air dry indoor by hanging it on the loop
• Do not roll it up when storing. Store flat.

very straight to the point use that even my kids can understand

Extra care if you intend to use the strap in chlorinated pool

Summary

The HRM-Pro is in my opinion, the buffed up version of HRM-Tri with additional ability to link via Bluetooth and be used for off-device activity, including being used for tracking when not doing any activity. Designed for the Garmin ecosystem, the additional Running Dynamic doesn't work outside of the Garmin device realm. So, if you are planning to use this with just your Strava or linked to your Virtual Running (Zwift), it may end up as a very expensive option. However, if you are already on the Garmin ecosystem, with the compatible devices, you can maximize the function of the HRM-Pro. 

In the table below, you will see each of the HRM and their features. If you are currently using an older HRM from Garmin, and want something as an upgrade suitable for your need, look no further that getting one that will maximise your training. I will update here or create a new one from time to time if anything changes from the existing usage - I do not foresee needing a battery change anything sooner that the next 6-months for now. 

Specification

HRM-Pro on Official Garmin Aeco Site

*Thank you Garmin Malaysia AECO Technologies for the HRM-Pro unit as part of the Athlete Ambassadorship.

Read More

A BRAND NEW WAY TO GET ACTIVE - AIA District Race 2020

District Race Malaysia by AIA Vitality returns in an all-new digital event, extending across all of Malaysia with bigger and better prizes.

---

Overview

 

●        The world’s greatest urban exploration race has gone digital and is free for all to join.

●        The event returns with AIA Vitality as the presenting sponsor, to help Malaysians stay active in the new normal and to live healthier, longer, better lives.

●        The app features brand new activities including checkpoints that are just a step outside your door for easy participation. You can join from anywhere in Malaysia!

●        There are over 40 prizes to be won, including a brand-new car, adidas gear and Garmin watches. One lucky winner will drive away with a Proton X50.

---

Detail

District Race Malaysia by AIA Vitality is back and ready to empower Malaysians in an all new, free to participate, augmented reality digital event. Over the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has made the holding of all mass participation sporting events impossible, thus challenging people to get creative with their fitness routine. The latest edition of District Race Malaysia is launched today (1 March 2021) with this context in mind. Powered by its cutting-edge technology platform, it promotes users to lead active and healthy lifestyles in the new normal by providing an engaging and fun urban exploration experience through the District app.

 

This year, District and its presenting sponsor AIA Vitality have extended the event across all of Malaysia, so anyone can participate and enjoy the fun.

 

The 4-month event aims to motivate people to stay active and stay healthy, by exercising in a new and exciting way while being comfortable and safe. The new version of the District app offers everyone multiple ways to participate regardless of their fitness level – there are enhanced fitness experiences, augmented reality and various community competitions for all to experience. 

 

The easiest way to get started is to walk, jog or run to virtual checkpoint locations nearby. Simply open the app, press Start, and walk through the GPS locations to earn points. Explore in your neighbourhood or at a local park; there are checkpoints everywhere.

 

Those who do not want to collect checkpoints can also earn points for any kilometers walked or run. These activities can be tracked in the District app or by linking a GPS-supported wearable device, such as a Garmin. After linking a wearable device, all activities will sync directly to the District app and points will be credited towards the overall leaderboard. It has never been so easy to participate in an event.

 

In addition to monthly competitions, there is a Grand Prize draw that will run for the length of the event from 1 March to 30 June, with amazing prizes up for grabs. Any activity that garners 2,000+ points will receive one lucky draw entry and the grand prize lucky draw winner will drive away a brand-new Proton X50. There are over 40 contest prizes to be won, including Garmin watches, adidas gear, and much more.

 

District Race Malaysia by AIA Vitality is also a fantastic way to connect with families and friends and get active together virtually, despite not being able to meet in person with the on-going MCO restrictions in place. Participants can invite friends and family members to join their team to race and for a chance to win. The largest team during the event will win free District Race Malaysia T-shirts and the 2021 District augmented reality enabled medal.

 

“Over 8,000 participants took part in the first edition of the District Race which was held at Dataran Merdeka Kuala Lumpur in 2019 and we were thrilled by the amazing response we received. Although the global pandemic has disrupted several parts of our lives, we want to instill that having a healthy and positive lifestyle for many young people and families is important,” said Josh Tendler, Head of Marketing, District Technologies. “The District App is powered by location-based technologies and gamification, now enables linking GPS-supported wearable devices to the platform. That is why we are taking our race for the community in Malaysia to a digital format this year – with the mission to stay active and healthy. This is going to be a race unlike anything we have seen before,” he added.

 

Heng Zee Wang, Chief Marketing Officer, AIA Bhd. shared the same sentiments: “District Race by AIA Vitality took Malaysia by storm when it first launched in 2019. As the presenting sponsor, we are so excited to bring it back in a new and evolved format that will continue to inspire Malaysians from all walks of life to go out there and be active despite the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought our way. We’re always committed to looking for innovative and fun ways to help Malaysians live Healthier, Longer and Better Lives – one of them being our unique health programme AIA Vitality which motivates people to make healthier choices in their everyday lives. This collaboration with District Race is a perfect fit for us as it will enable people to explore their cities and communities with their families and friends in a healthy and safe way.”

The District app is available for download via the App Store and Google Play Store.

General registration for District Race Malaysia by AIA Vitality, is still open for free sign ups by downloading the app at: https://rebrand.ly/DistrictRaceMY

For more information, follow @DistrictRaceMY on Facebook and Instagram, or visit the event page at: www.exploredistrict.com/en/events/district-race-my-2021

Read More