By itself, the A4 makes a good training aid, but it's particularly valuable when paired with any Polar transmitter, as the two together offer continuous heart rate monitoring. As a result, you'll know what your heart rate is throughout your workout, rather than only when you press the button. Plus, the A4 offers all the standard sports watch functions, including an alarm, calendar, stopwatch, backlight, and target zone alarms. The watch also offers a calorie counting function and exercise file record when combined with a chest strap transmitter (not included). Finally, the watch comes with a zippered black nylon carrying case for protection.
About Polar The first EKG accurate wireless heart rate monitor was invented by Polar back in 1977 as a training tool for the Finnish National Cross Country Ski Team. The concept of "intensity training" by heart rate swept the athletic world in the eighties. By the 1990s, individuals were looking to heart rate monitors not only for performance training needs, but also for achieving everyday fitness goals. Today, the same concept of heart rate training is being used by world-class athletes as well as everyday people trying to lose weight. Polar is the leading brand among consumers, coaches, and personal trainers worldwide and the company is committed to not only producing the best products, but also being the leading educator on the benefits of heart rate based exercise.