Polar Cyclometer RC3 GPS User Manual

POLAR  
RC3 GPS  
User Manual  
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ENGLISH  
Watch Settings.................................................................................................................... 33  
Quick Menu........................................................................................................................ 33  
Time Mode...................................................................................................................... 33  
Pre-training mode ............................................................................................................. 33  
Training Mode.................................................................................................................. 33  
9. POLAR FITNESS TEST ............................................................................................................ 35  
Before the Test................................................................................................................. 35  
Performing the Test........................................................................................................... 35  
After the Test................................................................................................................... 36  
10.NEW ACCESSORY ................................................................................................................. 38  
Pairing a New Sensor with the Training Computer.......................................................................... 38  
Pairing a New Heart Rate Sensor with the Training Computer............................................................ 38  
Pairing a New Speed Sensor with the Training Computer ................................................................. 38  
Pairing a New Cadence Sensor with the Training Computer .............................................................. 39  
Pairing a New Stride Sensor with the Training Computer ................................................................. 39  
Calibrate the Polar s3+ Stride Sensor ........................................................................................ 39  
Calibration by Running Wizard............................................................................................. 40  
Set Calibration Factor Manually ........................................................................................... 40  
11.POLAR SMART COACHING ....................................................................................................... 42  
Polar Sport Zones ................................................................................................................ 42  
Heart Rate Variability ............................................................................................................ 43  
Polar ZoneOptimizer ............................................................................................................. 43  
Maximum Heart Rate............................................................................................................. 45  
Running Cadence and Stride Length .......................................................................................... 45  
Polar Running Index.............................................................................................................. 46  
Polar Training Load Feature .................................................................................................... 48  
Polar Endurance Training Program for Running and Cycling.............................................................. 48  
12.IMPORTANT INFORMATION...................................................................................................... 50  
Caring for Your Product ......................................................................................................... 50  
Service ........................................................................................................................... 51  
Batteries ........................................................................................................................... 51  
Change the Heart Rate Sensor Battery................................................................................... 51  
Precautions........................................................................................................................ 52  
Interference During Training ............................................................................................... 52  
Minimizing Risks When Training .......................................................................................... 53  
Technical Specifications........................................................................................................ 53  
Frequently Asked Questions..................................................................................................... 55  
Limited International Polar Guarantee ........................................................................................ 58  
Disclaimer ......................................................................................................................... 59  
INDEX ............................................................................................................................... 60  
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1. INTRODUCTION  
Congratulations on the purchase of your Polar RC3 GPS training computer! The training computer offers  
you an all-in-one system to guide you in your training.  
This user manual includes complete instructions to help you get the most out of your training computer.  
The latest version of this user manual can be downloaded at www.polar.com/support  
Key Features and Benefits  
Slim Integrated GPS: RC3 GPS is all you need for tracking your speed, distance and route. The slim and  
lightweight training computer has a built-in GPS and rechargeable battery.  
Back to starting point: This feature guides your way back to the starting point of your trip.  
Training Benefit: This feature helps you better understand the benefits of your training by giving instant,  
textual feedback on your performance.  
Web Training Diary: Share your route and distance with others at polarpersonaltrainer.com.  
Running Index: Monitor the efficiency of your run with this feature. Running index is calculated  
automatically after every run, based on heart rate and speed data.  
Sport Profile: Start your training session with ease: the training computer provides five sport profiles; one  
for running, two for cycling and two for other sports.  
Polar Sport Zones: To help you train at the right intensity, lock you target sport zone for a training session.  
When your heart rate goes below or above the target sport zone, the RC3 GPS gives a visual and audible  
alarm.  
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Introduction  
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2. THE ALL-IN-ONE TRAINING SYSTEM  
Training Computer Parts  
With an integrated GPS unit, the Polar RC3 GPS training computer provides  
speed and distance data, as well as route information at polarpersonaltrainer.com  
web service, in all outdoor sports using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.  
Signals that GPS satellites transmit to the earth indicate the location of the satellites.  
The training computer receives the signals and determines your location by measuring  
the distance between itself and the satellites. There are at least 24 active GPS  
satellites orbiting around the earth. To get a reliable location reading, the training  
computer combines the signals from at least four satellites.  
Connect the training computer to your computer with a USB cable to charge the  
battery and to transfer data between the training computer and the  
polarpersonaltrainer.com web service.  
services to better meet your needs.  
Training Software  
With WebSync software you can  
polarpersonaltrainer.com,  
logo.  
For more information on data transfer and other functions in the WebSync software,  
consult the full user manual at www.polar.com/support  
The WebSync software can be downloaded at www.polarpersonaltrainer.com  
[http://www.polarpersonaltrainer.com].  
The All-in-one Training System  
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Polarpersonaltrainer.com is your online training diary and interactive training  
community that keeps you motivated. For a deeper analysis of your training, transfer  
the training data to the polarpersonaltrainer.com web service using the USB cable  
and WebSync software.  
With the polarpersonaltrainer.com web service you can  
your training computer and utilize them in your training, and  
For more information on the functions in the polarpersonaltrainer.com web service,  
consult the online help for polarpersonaltrainer.com.  
The username for your Polar Account is always your email address. The  
same username and password are valid for Polar product registration,  
polarpersonaltrainer.com, Polar discussion forum and Newsletter  
registration.  
Available Accessories  
With the help of Polar accessories, you can enhance your training experience and achieve a more complete  
understanding of your performance.  
The RC3 GPS training computer is compatible with Polar H2 and H3 heart rate  
sensors. The comfortable heart rate sensor detects your heart rate accurately from  
the heart's electrical signals and sends the data to the training computer in real  
time.  
The heart rate sensor consists of a connector and a strap.  
If you bought a set which does not include a heart rate sensor, turn it off in  
settings for the Sport Profiles. For instructions, see Sport Profile  
Optional Polar s3+ stride sensor* helps you to improve your running technique. It  
wirelessly measures speed/pace, distance, running cadence, running index and stride  
length, whether you train indoors or out.  
Optional Polar CS cadence sensor W.I.N.D.wirelessly measures cycling cadence,  
i.e. your real-time and average pedaling rate as revolutions per minute.  
Optional Polar CS speed sensor W.I.N.D.* wirelessly measures cycling distance  
and your real-time, average and maximum speeds/paces.  
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The All-in-one Training System  
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Data from all compatible sensors is sent wirelessly to the training computer over the 2.4 GHz W.I.N.D.  
technology, proprietary to Polar. This eliminates interference during training.  
*When using the training computer with s3+ stride sensor or CS speed sensor W.I.N.D., the training  
computer retrieves speed and distance data from the sensor and the GPS will only be used for location  
and route tracking.  
Button Functions  
The training computer has five buttons that have different functionalities depending on the situation of  
use.  
LIGHT  
display  
BACK  
START/OK  
selections  
UP  
DOWN  
selection lists  
selection lists  
selected value  
previous level  
Press and hold  
to enter QUICK  
MENU: In time  
view lock  
buttons, set  
alarm or select  
time zone.  
session  
selected value  
unchanged  
selections  
Press and hold  
to change the  
watch face.  
Press and hold  
to switch  
between Time  
1/ Time 2.  
Press and hold  
to set zone lock  
on/off in  
Press and hold  
to return to  
training mode.  
During training  
lock buttons,  
search sensor,  
adjust training  
sounds, set  
automatic lap  
on/off, show  
GPS info or  
show zone  
time mode from  
any other mode  
limits.  
For more  
information on the  
quick menu, see  
(page ? ).  
Menu Structure  
Data  
Follow up on your training data. For more information, see After Training (page 23).  
Settings  
Customize your training computer and select the necessary features for each of the sport profiles to suit  
your training. For more information, see Settings (page 29).  
The All-in-one Training System  
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Fitness Test  
To train right and to monitor your progress, it is important to know your current fitness level. The Polar  
Fitness Test is an easy and quick way to measure your cardiovascular fitness and aerobic capacity. The  
test is performed at rest. The test result is a value called OwnIndex. OwnIndex is comparable to maximal  
oxygen uptake (VO2max), which is a commonly used aerobic capacity measure. For more information, see  
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3. TRAINING COMPUTER BATTERY  
Charging Your Training Computer  
The Polar RC3 GPS training computer has an internal, rechargable battery. Use the USB cable included in  
the product set to charge the training computer via the USB connector on your computer. If you want to  
plug the USB connector to a wall outlet, use a USB power adapter (not included in the product set).  
1. Plug the micro USB connector into the USB port of the training  
computer.  
2. Plug the USB connector into the computer USB port. It is  
recommended not to use USB hubs because a USB hub may not  
supply enough power for the training computer.  
Use a USB 2.0 compliant USB A-to-micro B cable included in the set  
package. If you charge from a USB hub, for example, the charging time  
might be prolonged.  
If you use an AC adapter, make sure that the adapter is marked with  
"output 5Vdc 0.5A - 2A max". Only use an AC adapter which is  
adequately safety approved (marked with "LPS", "Limited Power  
Supply" or "UL listed").  
3. The charging animation appears on the display.  
When you plug in the training computer for the first time, Windows  
searches for drivers automatically. Wait for the driver search to  
complete (it takes about one minute). Alternatively you can skip the  
search. The charging animation / data transfer is disabled during the  
search.  
The battery will be 70-80% full after one hour of charging (if the  
battery was low). Charging the battery fully takes up to one hour and a  
half.  
4. When the training computer is fully charged, Charging complete is  
displayed. Disconnect the cable.  
When you plug the micro USB connector into the USB port of the training computer, be careful not to  
scratch the sealing surfaces of the back case. If sealing surface has deep scratches, it will cause loss of  
IPx7 grade waterproof level.  
After each time of using the USB port of the training computer, check visually that there is no hair, dust  
or other dirt on the sealing surface area of the lid/back case. Gently wipe to remove any dirt. Do not use  
any sharp tools or equipment for cleaning, which could cause which can cause scratches to the plastic  
parts.  
Battery operating time  
In continuous use  
When recording a training  
session on average 1h/day,  
7 days/week  
When only time view is used  
4 months  
with the GPS function ON:  
up to 12 hours  
with the GPS function ON:  
11 days  
with the GPS function OFF: with the GPS function OFF:  
up to 1700 hours 120 days  
Battery operating time depends on many factors, such as the temperature of the environment in which you  
Training Computer Battery  
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use your training computer, the features you select and use, and battery aging. The operating time is  
significantly reduced in temperatures well below freezing. Wearing the training computer under your  
overcoat helps to keep it warmer and to increase the operating time.  
You can increase the battery operating time significantly by using Available Accessories (page 6) instead  
of the GPS function for measuring speed and distance when you do not need route information.  
Battery Status Indication  
The battery icon in the upper right hand corner of the display shows the battery charging status and  
approximately how much charge is left in the battery.  
Battery icon  
Charge left  
80 - 100%  
60 - 80%  
40 - 60%  
20 - 40%  
8 - 20%  
The training computer has enough charge for one hour of training with the GPS  
function on.  
The remaining charge in the battery icon is blinking. The training computer charge  
is too low for recording a new training session with the GPS function on. At this  
point, the training computer switches the GPS function off. The training computer  
sounds and backlight are also automatically deactivated.  
A new training recording cannot be started before charging the training computer.  
Low battery notifications  
When the charge is getting low, the training computer notifies you with a message and an alarm.  
Low battery  
notification  
Battery status  
Battery low  
This notification is displayed when the training computer has enough charge for one  
hour of training with the GPS function on.  
Battery low, GPS off  
This notification is only displayed in training mode.  
The training computer charge is too low for continuing the recording of the training  
session with the GPS function on. At this point, the training computer switches the  
GPS function off. You can still use Available Accessories (page 6) and carry  
out the training session. The training computer sounds and backlight are  
automatically deactivated.  
A new training recording cannot be started before charging the training computer.  
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Training Computer Battery  
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Low battery  
notification  
Battery status  
Charge before training  
The charge is too low for recording a training session.  
A new training recording cannot be started before charging the training computer.  
Recording stopped, Battery Empty  
The charge is critically low. The training computer stops recording the training  
session, saves the training data and then goes to sleep mode.  
When the training computer display is blank, the battery is empty and the training  
computer has gone to sleep mode. Charge the training computer. If the battery is  
totally drained, it may take a while for the charging animation to appear on the  
display.  
Training Computer Battery  
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4. SETTING UP THE TRAINING COMPUTER  
Basic Settings  
Before using your training computer for the first time, customize the basic settings. Enter as accurate data  
as possible to ensure correct feedback based on your performance.  
Activate your training computer by pressing START. Select language is displayed. You can select from  
Dansk, Deutsch, English, Español, Fr  
, Italiano, Nederlands, Norsk, Português, Suomi or Svenska  
and accept with START. Please enter basic settings is displayed. Press START and adjust the following  
data:  
1. Time: Select 12h or 24h. With 12h, select AM or PM. Enter the local time.  
2. Date: Enter current date.  
3. Units: Select metric (kg/cm) or imperial (lb/ft) units.  
4. Weight: Enter your weight.  
5. Height: Enter your height. In LB/FT format, first enter feet then inches.  
6. Date of birth: Enter your date of birth.  
7. Sex: Select Male or Female.  
8. Settings OK? is displayed. To change your settings, press BACK until you return to the desired setting. To  
accept the settings, press START and the training computer goes to the time mode.  
It is important that you are precise with the Basic Settings, especially when setting your weight, height, date of  
birth and sex, as they have an impact on the accuracy of the measuring values, such as the heart rate limits and  
calorie expenditure.  
Sport Profile Settings  
The Sport Profile feature helps you start your training session with ease. The training computer provides  
five sport profiles; one for running, two for cycling and two for other sports.  
Adjust the settings for the sport profiles to suit your training needs in MENU > Settings > Sport Profiles.  
You can, for example, activate the sensors you want to use in the sport. Then when you start a training  
session using the sport profile, the training computer detects the needed sensors automatically.  
The heart rate sensor is on by default in every sport. Due to this, the training computer will automatically start  
searching for the heart rate sensor signal once you press START in time view. If you bought a set which does not  
include a heart rate sensor, turn it off in MENU > Settings > Sport Profiles > Sport > Heart rate sensor >  
Off.  
For more information on the sport profile settings, see Sport Profile Settings (page 29).  
When you activate an optional sensor (s3+ stride sensor, CS speed sensor W.I.N.D. or CS cadence sensor  
W.I.N.D.) for the first time, it needs to be paired with the training computer. For more information on  
pairing a sensor with the training computer, see New Accessory (page 38).  
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Setting Up the Training Computer  
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5. TRAINING  
Wearing the Heart Rate Sensor  
Wear the heart rate sensor to measure heart rate.  
1. Moisten the electrode area of the  
strap.  
2. Attach the connector to the strap.  
3. Tie the strap around your chest,  
just below the chest muscles, and  
attach the hook to the other end of  
the strap.  
4. Adjust the strap length to fit tightly  
but comfortably. Check that the  
moist electrode areas are firmly  
against your skin and that the Polar  
logo of the connector is in a central  
and upright position.  
Detach the connector from the strap  
after every use, to maximize the  
battery lifetime. Sweat and moisture  
may keep the electrodes wet and the  
heart rate sensor activated. This will  
reduce the battery life. For more  
detailed washing instructions, see  
(page ? ).  
Starting a Training Session  
Wear the heart rate sensor and make sure you have set up an optional sensor* as instructed in the sensor's  
user manual. If you are using a speed, cadence, or stride sensor for the first time, see New Accessory  
(page 38). To use Polar ZoneOptimizer feature for your training session, see Train with Polar ZoneOptimizer  
1. Start by pressing START  
1. In time view, press START to enter the pre-training mode.  
2. Pair the heart rate sensor with the training computer  
(pairing is performed only once)  
Pairing ensures that your training computer receives signal from your heart rate sensor only and enables  
interference-free training when there are other training computers around.  
If you purchased a set which does not include a heart rate sensor, and you have set the heart  
rate sensor off in the Sport Profile settings, skip step two and go straight to step three.  
Training  
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2. Pair the heart rate sensor with the training computer  
(pairing is performed only once)  
1. Searching for new heart rate sensor is displayed. The training  
computer searches for the heart rate sensor signal.  
2. Heart rate sensor found is displayed when the training computer  
finds the signal.  
If the training computer cannot find the heart rate sensor, make sure  
the heart rate sensor strap has not loosened and the electrodes of the  
heart rate sensor are wet.  
3. Select the sport profile  
1. Select the sport profile you want to use by browsing with UP/DOWN.  
2. To change the sport profile settings or heart rate settings before the  
training recording is started (in pre-training mode), press and hold  
LIGHT to enter QUICK MENU. To return to the pretraining mode, press  
BACK.  
For sport profile settings, see Sport Profile Settings (page 29).  
4. The training computer searches the GPS satellite signals / sensor signals  
1. If you have activated the GPS function and/or an optional sensor* in  
this sport profile, the training computer will automatically start  
searching for the signals.  
Stay in the pre-training mode until the training computer has found  
the signals.  
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4. The training computer searches the GPS satellite signals / sensor signals  
2. To catch the GPS satellite signals, go outdoors and away from tall  
buildings and trees.  
Wear the training computer with the face upwards on your wrist. Keep  
the training computer in a horizontal position in front of you and away  
from your chest (see the image below). Keep your arm stationary and  
raised above the level of your chest during the search.  
Do not move your arm during the search. Keep still!  
Stand still and hold the position until the training computer has found  
the satellite signals (an alarm sounds and a check mark appears on  
the arm of the figure once the signal is found).  
In good conditions, finding the satellite signals for the first time  
typically takes 30-60 seconds.  
3. The check mark indicates that the signal is found. In this image, the  
training computer has found the heart rate sensor signal and the GPS  
signal. The training computer determines your location and marks the  
location as your starting point.  
The Back to Starting Point (page 22) feature requires accurate  
starting point information in order to function properly.  
If the training computer does not find a sensor signal, the display  
shows a triangle with an exclamation mark.  
5. Start recording the training session  
1. Once the training computer has found all the signals, press START.  
Recording started is displayed and you can start training.  
During training recording you can change the training view by  
browsing with UP/DOWN. To change settings without stopping the  
training recording, press and hold LIGHT to enter QUICK MENU. For  
more information, see Quick Menu (page 33).  
Before you start recording a training session, make sure that the training computer has found  
the GPS satellites signals / sensor signals. This ensures that  
function on). The Back to Starting Point (page 22) feature requires accurate  
starting point information in order to function properly.  
Training  
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*Optional sensors include Polar s3+ stride sensor, Polar CS speed sensor W.I.N.D. or Polar CS cadence  
sensor W.I.N.D.  
Train with Polar ZoneOptimizer  
The ZoneOptimizer function determines your personalized sport zones (heart rate zones) for your aerobic  
training session. It measures your heart rate variability during the warm-up and determines your personal  
sport zones. For more information, see Polar ZoneOptimizer (page 43).  
To use the ZoneOptimizer function in your training, set in on by selecting MENU > Settings > Heart rate  
settings > ZoneOptimizer > On .  
The ZoneOptimizer function defines the personalized target heart rate zones for you in the beginning of  
every training session. If there is less than an hour since your last ZoneOptimizer definition, the given  
target heart rate zones are not necessarily valid, because you may have not recovered from previous  
training, and during instant recovery, heart rate variability returns to normal state slower than heart rate.  
Start Training Session with Polar ZoneOptimizer  
Before ZoneOptimizer determination, make sure that you have the Polar default sport zone heart rate  
limits in use i.e. you have not modified the heart rate limits manually. If you want to modify the Sport  
Zone heart rate limits manually, set the ZoneOptimizer function off.  
To set the ZoneOptimizer function on, select MENU > Settings > Heart rate settings > ZoneOptimizer > On.  
The ZoneOptimizer determination will start in the background already when you are in pre-training mode.  
When you see the ECG-curve on the top right hand corner on the display, you will know that the heart rate  
measurement and ZoneOptimizer are on.  
1. To start the training session with ZoneOptimizer press OK.  
The display will show the sport used in the previous training session  
and the count down timer will start running in the background as soon  
as the heart rate has reached 70 beats per minute. An ECG-curve will  
appear in the top right had corner of the display.  
Select the sport profile you want to use for your training session with  
UP/DOWN and press OK to start training.  
2. Keep your heart rate between 70 and 100 beats per minute for two  
minutes.  
This can be achieved by standing or with very light training intensity,  
for example, walking slowly.  
The alarm will sound, when the first part of the determination is  
finished.  
3. The second part of the determination will start when your heart rate  
has risen above 100 beats per minute.  
Continue training at light intensity. Increase heart rate gradually, and  
keep it between 100  
This can be achieved, for example, by walking briskly, or by  
cycling/jogging at low intensity during warm up.  
If you have a very low HRmax, the training computer will give you special limits.  
The alarm will sound when the second part of the ZoneOptimizer determination is  
finished.  
The ZoneOptimizer determination may already finish here, if the heart rate  
variation limit is reached .  
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4. The third part of the determination will start when your heart rate has  
risen above 130 beats per minute.  
Gradually increase your heart rate above 130 bpm and keep it there.  
The ZoneOptimizer determination will be finalized when the heart rate  
has been above 130 beats per minute for more than half a minute.  
The alarm will sound, when the third and final part of the  
determination is finished.  
5. After the determination is finished, the training computer displays one  
of the following:  
Default sport zones (heart rate zones) in use. The determination was  
not successful. The Polar sport zone (heart rate) limits will be used.  
Sport zones optimized. Heart rate zones on higher level. The limits  
have been raised compared to your average ZoneOptimizer limits.  
Sport zones optimized. Heart rate zones on normal level. The limits  
have been raised or lowered only slightly compared to your average  
ZoneOptimizer limits.  
Sport zones optimized. Heart rate zones on lower level. The limits  
have been lowered compared to your average ZoneOptimizer limits.  
6. After you have received and read the feedback, press any button,  
except LIGHT, to exit the message display and continue your training  
session.  
Training Views  
You can view different training views by pressing UP or DOWN. The number of the training view appears  
for a few seconds.  
The information displayed varies depending on the sensors you have installed, which features are set on  
and what kind of sport you are performing.  
The below tables present available training views for some different sensor combinations. In these  
examples, the training information is shown on three rows. You can set the training information to be  
shown on two or three rows in MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Sport > Training view.  
Heart rate sensor  
Heart rate sensor  
GPS function on  
Heart rate sensor  
s3+ stride sensor  
HEART RATE  
HEART RATE  
HEART RATE  
ZONEPOINTER  
SPEED/PACE  
SPEED/PACE  
Training  
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Heart rate sensor  
Heart rate sensor  
GPS function on  
Heart rate sensor  
s3+ stride sensor  
CALORIES  
ZONEPOINTER  
ZONEPOINTER  
SPORT ZONES  
LAP 01 TIME  
LAP 01 TIME  
Time in each  
zone  
Lap time  
Lap time  
AVERAGE  
AVERAGE  
SPEED/PACE  
SPEED/PACE  
Average  
Average  
Speed/Pace  
Speed/Pace  
SPORT ZONES  
SPORT ZONES  
Time in each zone  
Time on  
each zone  
BACK TO START  
An arrow points  
the direction of  
your starting  
point. For more  
information, see  
Heart rate sensor  
CS speed sensor W.I.N.D.  
Heart rate sensor  
Heart rate sensor  
CS cadence sensor W.I.N.D.  
CS cadence sensor W.I.N.D.  
GPS function on  
HEART RATE  
HEART RATE  
HEART RATE  
SPEED/PACE  
CADENCE  
SPEED/PACE  
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Heart rate sensor  
Heart rate sensor  
Heart rate sensor  
CS speed sensor W.I.N.D.  
CS cadence sensor W.I.N.D.  
CS cadence sensor W.I.N.D.  
GPS function on  
ZONEPOINTER  
ZONEPOINTER  
ZONEPOINTER  
LAP 01 TIME  
HEART RATE  
LAP 01 TIME  
Lap time  
Lap time  
AVERAGE  
SPORT ZONES  
AVERAGE  
SPEED/PACE  
SPEED/PACE  
Time in each  
zone  
Average  
Average  
speed/pace  
speed/pace  
SPORT ZONES  
CADENCE  
Time in each  
zone  
SPORT ZONES  
Time on each  
zone  
BACK TO START  
An arrow  
points the  
direction of  
your starting  
point. For more  
information,  
Symbols on the display / Explanation  
Cadence  
Speed at which you turn the cranks of your bicycle  
Training  
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Symbols on the display / Explanation  
Calories  
The expended calories so far. The cumulation of calories  
starts when your heart rate is displayed.  
Distance  
Cumulative distance  
Duration  
Total duration of the training session so far  
Heart rate  
Your current heart rate  
Lap distance  
Manual lap distance  
Lap time  
Manual lap number and lap time  
Speed/Pace  
Current pace (min/km or min/mi) or current speed (km/h  
or mph)  
This symbol is displayed when the GPS function is on.  
The amount of bars above the letter G indicates the GPS  
signal strength.  
This symbol is displayed when the s3+ stride sensor is in  
use.  
This symbol is displayed when the CS speed sensor  
W.I.N.D. is in use.  
You can select the speed view in sport profile settings.  
See Sport Profile Settings (page 12) for instructions.  
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Symbols on the display / Explanation  
ZonePointer  
Target zone indicator with a heart symbol that moves left  
or right on the sport zone scale according to your heart  
rate.  
Time in Zone  
Time spent in the target zone  
Time of day  
Button Functions During Training  
Record a Lap  
Press START to record a lap. The display will show:  
Lap number  
Average heart rate of the lap  
Lap time  
If a speed sensor is activated, the following will also appear:  
Lap number  
Average speed/pace of the lap  
Lap distance  
Lock a Sport Zone  
You can lock/unlock your heart rate to the current sport zone.  
To lock/unlock the sport zone, press and hold START.  
If, for example, you are running with a heart rate of 130 bpm which is  
75% of your maximum heart rate, and matches sport zone 3, you can  
press and hold START to lock your heart rate into this zone. Sport zone3  
Lockedis displayed.  
An alarm sounds if you are below or above the sport zone. Unlock the sport zone by  
pressing and holding START again: Sport zone3 Unlocked is displayed.  
Night Mode  
There is a night mode function in the training computer. Press the LIGHT button once during pre-training  
mode, training recording mode or pause mode. The backlight will be activated every time you press any of  
the buttons.  
The display will also light up if a message, for example, Check heart rate sensor , is displayed.  
Night mode will be switched off when you finish the training recording.  
Training  
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View Quick Menu  
Press and hold LIGHT. QUICK MENU is displayed. You can change certain settings without pausing the  
training recording. For further information, see Quick Menu (page 33).  
Pause / Stop Training Recording  
1. To pause training recording, press BACK once. To continue training recording, press START.  
2. To stop recording completely, press BACK twice. The following summary of your training information is  
displayed  
Steady state training+ , is displayed if you trained at least a total of  
10 minutes in the sport zones. See the feedback in more detail in Training Files. For more  
information, see After Training (page 23)  
Duration and Calories  
Average heart rate and Maximum heart rate  
Sport zones (Time in each zone)  
Average pace and Maximum pace or Average speed and Maximum speed (visible if the GPS function  
is on or s3+ stride sensor/CS speed sensor is in use)  
Distance (visible if the GPS function is on or s3+ stride sensor/CS speed sensor is in use) and  
Running Index (visible if the GPS function is on or s3+ stride sensor is in use)  
Care for your heart rate sensor after training. Detach the connector from the strap and rinse the strap under  
running water after every use. For complete care and maintenance instructions, see Caring for Your Product  
Back to Starting Point  
The Back to starting point feature guides your way back to the starting point. When the training computer  
finds the GPS satellite signals in the beginning of the training session, your location is saved as a starting  
point.  
When it is time to return to your starting point, do the following:  
of you ("POLAR" logo facing forward).  
determine which direction you are going. An arrow  
will point in the direction of your starting point.  
the direction of the arrow.  
and the direct distance (beeline) between you and  
the starting point.  
When you reach the starting point, Starting point reached  
is displayed.  
Always keep a map at hand in case the RC3 GPS loses the satellite signal or the battery runs out.  
This feature uses the GPS function. Set GPS function on in Sport Profile Settings (page 29).  
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6. AFTER TRAINING  
Training Benefit  
The Training Benefit feature helps you better understand the effectiveness of your training. This feature  
requires the use of the heart rate sensor. After each training session you get textual feedback on your  
performance providing that you have trained at least a total of 10 minutes in the sport zones. The  
feedback is based on training time distribution on sport zones, calorie expenditure and duration. In  
Training Files you get the feedback in more detail. The descriptions of different training benefit options  
are listed in the table below.  
with more physiological approach.  
Feedback  
Training benefit  
Maximum training+  
That was a hard session! You improved your sprint  
speed and the nervous system of your muscles,  
which make you more efficient. This session also  
increased your resistance to fatigue.  
Maximum training  
That was a hard session! You improved your sprint  
speed and the nervous system of your muscles,  
which make you more efficient.  
Maximum & Tempo training  
What a session! You improved your speed and  
efficiency. This session also significantly  
developed your aerobic fitness and your ability to  
sustain high intensity effort for longer.  
Tempo & Maximum training  
Tempo training+  
What a session! You significantly improved your  
aerobic fitness and your ability to sustain high  
intensity effort for longer. This session also  
developed your speed and efficiency.  
Great pace in a long session! You improved your  
aerobic fitness, speed, and ability to sustain high  
intensity effort for longer. This session also  
increased your resistance to fatigue.  
Tempo training  
Great pace! You improved your aerobic fitness,  
speed, and ability to sustain high intensity effort  
for longer.  
Tempo & Steady state training  
Good pace! You improved your ability to sustain  
high intensity effort for longer. This session also  
developed your aerobic fitness and the endurance  
of your muscles.  
Steady state & Tempo training  
Steady state training+  
Good pace! You improved your aerobic fitness and  
the endurance of your muscles. This session also  
developed your ability to sustain high intensity  
effort for longer.  
Excellent! This long session improved the  
endurance of your muscles and your aerobic  
fitness. It also increased your resistance to  
fatigue.  
Steady state training  
Excellent! You improved the endurance of your  
muscles and your aerobic fitness.  
Steady state & Basic training, long  
Excellent! This long session improved the  
endurance of your muscles and your aerobic  
fitness. It also developed your basic endurance  
and your body's ability to burn fat during exercise.  
After Training  
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Feedback  
Training benefit  
Steady state & Basic training  
Excellent! You improved the endurance of your  
muscles and your aerobic fitness. This session also  
developed your basic endurance and your body's  
ability to burn fat during exercise.  
Basic & Steady state training, long  
Basic & Steady state training  
Great! This long session improved your basic  
endurance and your body's ability to burn fat  
during exercise. It also developed the endurance  
of your muscles and your aerobic fitness.  
Great! You improved your basic endurance and  
your body's ability to burn fat during exercise. This  
session also developed the endurance of your  
muscles and your aerobic fitness.  
Basic training, long  
Basic training  
Great! This long, low intensity session improved  
your basic endurance and your body's ability to  
burn fat during exercise.  
Well done! This low intensity session improved  
your basic endurance and your body's ability to  
burn fat during exercise.  
Recovery training  
Very nice session for your recovery. Light exercise  
like this allows your body to adapt to your training.  
Training Files  
The training computer records your training data in Training files when the training session has lasted at  
least one minute.  
To view basic data on your performance, see MENU > Data > Training files.  
For deeper analysis, transfer the data to polarpersonaltrainer.com with the USB cable and WebSync  
software. The web service offers various options to analyze the data with.  
In Training files, browse with UP / DOWN buttons to select the file you want to review and press START.  
The information stored in a training file depends on the sport profile and the sensors in use. The below  
table presents examples of training file views for running and cycling sports.  
TRAINING FILE VIEWS  
INFORMATION DISPLAYED  
Textual feedback on your performance, for example Steady state  
training+, is displayed if you trained at least a total of 10 minutes  
in the sport zones.  
To view the training benefit, select More details by pressing START.  
Start time  
Duration  
Distance (visible if the GPS function is on or s3+ stride sensor/CS  
speed sensor is in use)  
Avg heart rate  
Max heart rate  
Min heart rate  
(visible if the heart rate sensor is in use)  
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TRAINING FILE VIEWS  
INFORMATION DISPLAYED  
Calories  
Fat burn% of calories  
(visible if heart rate sensor in use)  
Average pace / Average speed  
Maximum pace / Maximum speed  
(visible if the GPS function is on or s3+ stride sensor/CS speed  
sensor is in use)  
Average cadence  
Maximum cadence  
(visible if s3+ stride sensor or CS cadence sensor is in use)  
Running index  
(visible if the GPS function is on or s3+ stride sensor is in use)  
Average stride length (visible if s3+ stride sensor is in use)  
Running index (visible if the GPS function is on or s3+ stride sensor  
is in use)  
Bike in use  
Riding duration  
(visible if training file sport is cycling)  
Sport zones  
Time on each zone  
(visible if heart rate sensor is in use)  
Zone limits  
(visible if ZoneOptimizer used and heart rate sensor is in use)  
Laps/Automatic laps (number of the laps)  
Best lap  
Average lap  
To view detailed lap information, select More details by pressing  
START.  
The following  
information on LAP  
1/ A. LAP 1 is  
displayed:  
Lap time  
Split time  
You can browse the laps with UP or DOWN.  
To browse the following information on a certain lap, press START.  
After Training  
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TRAINING FILE VIEWS  
INFORMATION DISPLAYED  
Average heart rate  
Maximum heart rate  
Average pace /  
Average speed  
Maximum pace /  
Maximum speed  
(visible if the GPS  
function is on or  
s3+ stride  
sensor/CS speed  
sensor is in use)  
Lap distance  
Split distance  
(visible if the GPS  
function is on or  
s3+ stride  
sensor/CS speed  
sensor is in use)  
Average cadence  
Maximum cadence  
(visible if s3+ stride  
sensor or CS  
cadence sensor is in  
use)  
Average stride  
length  
(visible if s3+ stride  
sensor is in use)  
Delete Files  
The training file memory becomes full once either the maximum recording time or the maximum number  
of files is reached. For more information on the limit values, see Technical Specifications (page 53).  
When the training file memory becomes full, the oldest training file is overwritten by the most recent one.  
To save the training file for a longer period of time, transfer it to the Polar web service at  
To delete a training file:  
1. Select MENU > DATA > Delete files > Training file and press START. Browse the files with the UP/DOWN  
buttons and select the file you want to delete. Press START Delete file? YES/NO is displayed.  
Alternatively, you can delete a file in MENU > Data > Training files. Browse with UP/DOWN to the file you  
want to delete, then press and hold LIGHT. Delete file? YES/NO is displayed  
2. Select YES, File deleted is displayed. After that Remove file from totals? is displayed. If you select YES,  
File deleted from totals is displayed. If you select NO, the training computer returns to the training file  
menu. Note! Deleting a file from totals does not delete data from Week summaries. Week summaries can  
be only reset  
To delete all files:  
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1. Select MENU > DATA > Delete files > All filesand press START. Delete all files? YES/NO is displayed.  
2. Select YES and All files deleted is displayed. If you select NO the training computer returns to the  
training all files menu.  
Week Summaries  
To view week summaries of the training files go to MENU > Data > Week summaries > Summary and press  
START.  
SUMMARY  
This week  
The dates on which the data was collected  
Duration  
Duration  
Distance  
Calories  
Number of sessions  
Sport zones 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5  
Time per zone  
Reset Week Summaries  
To reset weeks summaries select MENU > DATA > Reset week summaries?. Select Yes and Week summaries  
reset is displayed or No and the training computer returns to Data menu.  
Totals Since xx.xx.xxxx  
To view totals of the training files go to MENU > Data > Totals since and press START.  
Duration  
Distance  
Calories  
Number of sessions  
Sport zones 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5  
Time per zone  
Reset Totals  
To reset totals select MENU > DATA > Reset totals? Select Yes and Totals reset is displayed or No and the  
training computer returns to Data menu.  
After Training  
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7. POLARPERSONALTRAINER.COM  
Analyze Your Training Data  
For a long-term follow-up, store your training files in the polarpersonaltrainer.com web service. There you  
can view detailed information on your training sessions and get a better understanding of your training.  
With the USB cable and Polar WebSync software, it is easy to transfer training files to the  
polarpersonaltrainer.com web service.  
Use the USB cable included in the set package for data transfer. If you use another USB cable, make sure that it is  
a USB 2.0 compliant USB A-to-micro B cable.  
How to set up your computer for data transmission  
1. Register at polarpersonaltrainer.com  
2. Download and install WebSync software on your computer at polarpersonaltrainer.com.  
3. Plug the micro USB connector into the USB port in the training computer and the USB connector into  
the computer USB port.  
4. WebSync software starts automatically and the welcome window opens (you can also double-click the  
WebSync icon on your task bar/menu bar to start Websync).  
If you want to transfer training data, select Synchronize. If you want to connect to your training computer  
to modify settings and to transfer them to the training computer, select Training Computer .  
For more information on transfering data and modifying training computer settings, see WebSync Help  
[https://www.polarpersonaltrainer.com/help/websync2/en/Polar_WebSync_2.x_Help_EN.htm].  
Utilize Polar Endurance Training Programs  
Utilize the ready-made Polar Endurance Program for running or cycling, or create your own phased training  
sessions in polarpersonaltrainer.com. Transfer them to the training computer by using the USB cable and  
WebSync software. For more information, see polarpersonaltrainer.com Help  
[https://www.polarpersonaltrainer.com/help/en/index.html].  
Once you have transferred the program onto to your training computer, go to MENU > PROGRAM and press  
START. You can browse through the planned training sessions with UP/DOWN buttons and select the  
training session you want to do (for example Thu 26.8.Long run 20km). To start training press START.  
For more information on Endurance programs, see Polar Endurance Training Program for Running and  
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8. SETTINGS  
Sport Profile Settings  
Adjust the settings for the sport profiles to suit your training needs in MENU > Settings > Sport Profiles.  
You can, for example, activate the sensors you want to use in different sports. When you start a training  
session using the sport profile, the training computer detects the needed sensors automatically.  
There are four sport profiles shown in the pre-training mode by default: Running, Cycling (Bike 1), Other  
sport 1 and Other sport 2. The fifth sport profile, Cycling (Bike 2), is not show in the pre-training mode by  
default. You can set Cycling (Bike 2) to be shown in the pre-training mode in Cycling Settings.  
The heart rate sensor is on by default in every sport, and the training computer automatically starts searching for  
the heart rate sensor signal once you press START in time mode. If you bought a set which does not include a  
heart rate sensor, turn it off in MENU > Settings > Sport Profiles > Sport > Heart rate sensor > Off.  
Running Settings  
To view or modify sport profile settings for running, select MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Running  
Training sounds: Select Off, Soft, Loud or Very loud.  
Heart rate sensor : Select On, Off or Search new.  
GPS: Select On or Off.  
Stride sensor: Select Off or Search new. If you have already paired one stride sensor, the option On is  
also visible.  
Stride sensor calibration: Select Calibrate > By running or Set factor. For more information on  
Stride sensor calibration is visible only if the stride sensor has been set on previously.  
Speed View: Select Kilometers per hour or Minutes per kilometer . If you have chosen imperial unit,  
select Miles per hour or Minutes per mile.  
Automatic lap: Select On or Off. If you set the automatic lap On, Set automatic lap distance is displayed.  
Set the distance in kilometers or miles.  
Show in pre-training mode? Select YES, and Sport shown in pre-training mode is displayed. When you  
press START in time mode, the sport will be visible in the list of sports in pre-training mode. Select No  
and Sport not shown in pre-training mode is displayed.  
Training view numbering : Select On or Off. If you set the Training view numbering On , the number of the  
training view appears for a few seconds when you browse the training views with UP/DOWN.  
Training view: Select 3 rows or 2 rows. The training information will be displayed on three or two rows  
according to your selection.  
All new sensors must be paired with the training computer before they can be activated.  
For more information on pairing a new sensor with the training computer, see New Accessory (page 38).  
Cycling Settings  
To view or modify sport profile settings for cycling, select MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Cycling  
(Bike1)/Cycling2 (Bike 2)  
Training sounds: Select Off, Soft, Loud or Very loud.  
Heart rate sensor : Select On, Off or Search new.  
GPS: Select On or Off.  
Bike 1 settings For more information, see Bike Settings.  
Speed View: Select Kilometers per hour or Minutes per kilometer . If you have chosen imperial unit,  
Settings  
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select Miles per hour or Minutes per mile.  
Automatic lap is set off as default. Press START and Set distance is displayed. Set the distance in  
kilometers or in miles and confirm with START. Automatic lap set to x.x km is displayed. After this, you  
can select to have the Automatic lap Off or On.  
Show in pre-training mode? Select YES, and Sport shown in pre-training mode is displayed. When you  
press START in time mode, the sport will be visible in the list of sports in pre-training mode. Select No  
and Sport not shown in pre-training mode is displayed.  
Training view numbering : Select On or Off. If you set the Training view numbering On , the number of the  
training view appears for a few seconds when you browse the training views with UP/DOWN.  
Training view: Select 3 rows or 2 rows. The training information will be displayed on three or two rows  
according to your selection.  
Bike Settings  
To view or modify bike settings, select MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Cycling (Bike1)/Cycling2 (Bike 2)  
> Bike 1 settings/Bike 2 settings  
Speed sensor: Select Off or Search new. If you have already paired one speed sensor, the option On is  
also visible.  
Wheel size: Set the wheel size to xxxx mm. For more information on measuring the wheel size, see  
Cadence sensor: Select Off or Search new. If you have already paired one cadence sensor, the option On  
is also visible.  
Autostart: Set Off or On. If you select On, Activate speed sensor YES/NO is displayed. Select YES and  
Autostart on is displayed. If you have not paired a speed sensor with your training computer, Speed  
sensor for bike required is displayed and the training computer returns to Bike 1 settings/Bike 2  
settings. If you select NO, Activation canceled is displayed.  
All new sensors must be paired with the training computer before they can be activated.  
For more information on pairing a new sensor to the training computer, see New Accessory (page 38).  
Measuring Wheel Size  
Select MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Cycling (Bike 1)/Cycling 2 (Bike 2) > Bike 1 settings > Wheel  
size > Set wheel size  
Wheel size settings are a prerequisite for correct cycling information. There are two ways of determining  
the wheel size of your bike:  
Method 1  
Look for the diameter in inches or in ETRTO printed on the wheel. Match it to the wheel size in  
millimeters in the right column of the chart.  
ETRTO  
Wheel size diameter (inches)  
26 x 1.0  
Wheel size setting (mm)  
25-559  
23-571  
35-559  
37-622  
47-559  
20-622  
52-559  
23-622  
1884  
1909  
1947  
1958  
2022  
2051  
2054  
2070  
650 x 23C  
26 x 1.50  
700 x 35C  
26 x 1.95  
700 x 20C  
26 x 2.0  
700 x 23C  
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ETRTO  
Wheel size diameter (inches)  
700 x 25C  
Wheel size setting (mm)  
25-622  
28-622  
32-622  
42-622  
47-622  
2080  
2101  
2126  
2189  
2220  
700 x 28  
700 x 32C  
700 x 40C  
700 x 47C  
Wheel sizes on the chart are advisory as wheel size depends on the wheel type and air pressure.  
Method 2  
Measure the wheel manually for the most accurate result.  
Use the valve to mark the point where the wheel touches the ground. Draw a line on the ground to mark  
that point. Move your bike forward on a flat surface for one complete rotation. The tire should be  
perpendicular to the ground. Draw another line on the ground at the valve to mark a full rotation. Measure  
the distance between the two lines.  
Subtract 4 mm to account for your weight on the bike to get your wheel circumference. Enter this value in  
the training computer.  
Other Sport Settings  
To view or modify sport profile settings for other sport, select MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Other  
sport 1/ Other sport 2  
Training sounds: Select Off, Soft, Loud or Very loud.  
Heart rate sensor : Select On, Off or Search new.  
GPS: Select On or Off.  
Speed View: Select Kilometers per hour or Minutes per kilometer . If you have chosen imperial unit,  
select Miles per hour or Minutes per mile  
Automatic lap: Set On or Off. If you set the automatic lap On, Set automatic lap distance is displayed. Set  
the distance in kilometers or miles.  
Show in pre-training mode? Select YES, and Sport shown in pre-training mode is displayed. When you  
press START in time mode, the sport will be visible in the list of sports in pre-training mode. Select No  
and Sport not shown in pre-training mode is displayed.  
Training view numbering : Select On or Off. If you set the Training view numbering On , the number of the  
training view appears for a few seconds when you browse the training views with UP/DOWN.  
Training view: Select 3 rows or 2 rows. The training information will be displayed on three or two rows  
according to your selection.  
All new sensors must be paired with the training computer before they can be activated.  
For more information on pairing a new sensor with the training computer, see New Accessory (page 38).  
Heart Rate Settings  
To view and change heart rate settings, select MENU > SETTINGS > Heart rate settings .  
ZoneOptimizer: Set On or Off.  
Heart rate view : Select Beats per minute (BPM) or Percent of maximum (% of maximum).  
Heart rate zone lock : Select Heart rate zone lock OFF , or lock one of the zones by selecting Zone 1,  
Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4 or Zone 5. Zone X locked is displayed.  
Sport zones: Set zone 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 heart rate limits. For more information on sport zones, see Polar  
Settings  
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Before modifying the zone limits you need to set the ZoneOptimizer off. To modify zones, first set  
ZoneOptimizer off is displayed. Set ZoneOptimizer off? YES/NO? Select YES. Zone optimizer off is  
displayed. You can start modifying the zone limits.  
User Information Settings  
Enter accurate user information in the training computer to receive the correct feedback on your  
performance.  
To view and modify user information settings, select MENU > Settings > User information > USER INFORMAT..  
Browse the selection with UP/DOWN and accept the value with START.  
Weight: Set your weight in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs).  
Height: Set your height in centimeters (cm) or in feet and inches (if you chose imperial units)  
Date of Birth: Set your birthday. The order in which date settings are depends on which time and date  
format you have chosen (24h: day - month - year / 12h: month - day - year).  
Sex: Select Male or Female.  
Activity level : Select Low (0-1 h/week), Moderate (1-3 h/week) , High (3-5 h/week) or Top (5+ h/week)  
Activity level is an assessment of your level of long-term physical activity. Select the alternative that best  
describes the overall amount and intensity of your physical activity during the past three months. Your  
activity level is used in calculating your energy expenditure.  
Top (5+ h/week): You participate in heavy physical exercise at least 5 times a week, or you exercise to  
improve performance for competitive purposes.  
High (3-5 h/week): You participate at least 3 times a week in heavy physical exercise, e.g. you run  
20-50 km/12-31 miles per week or spend 3-5 hours per week in comparable physical activity.  
Moderate (1-3 h/week) : You participate regularly in recreational sports, e.g. you run 5-10 km or 3-6  
miles per week or spend 1-3 hours per week in comparable physical activity, or your work requires  
modest physical activity.  
Low (0-1 h/week): You do not participate regularly in programmed recreational sport or heavy physical  
activity, e.g. you walk only for pleasure or exercise hard enough to cause heavy breathing or  
perspiration only occasionally.  
Maximum heart rate : Set your maximum heart rate, if you know your laboratory measured current  
maximum heart rate value. Your age-predicted maximum heart rate value (220-age) is displayed as a  
default setting when you set this value for the first time. For more information, see Maximum Heart Rate  
(HRmax).  
OwnIndex(VO2max): Set your OwnIndex (VO2max value). For more information, see OwnIndex.  
Maximum Heart Rate (HRmax  
)
HRmax is used to estimate energy expenditure. HRmax is the highest number of heartbeats per minute  
during maximum physical exertion. HRmax is also useful when determining training intensity. The most  
accurate method for determining your individual HRmax is to perform a maximal exercise stress test in a  
laboratory.  
OwnIndex®  
Polar OwnIndex, the result of Polar Fitness Test (page 35), predicts your maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max).  
OwnIndex usually ranges from 20 to 95 and is comparable to VO2max, commonly used to evaluate aerobic  
fitness. Your long-term level of physical activity, heart rate, heart rate variability at rest, gender, age,  
height, and body weight all influence OwnIndex. The higher the OwnIndex value is, the better your aerobic  
fitness is.  
General Settings  
To view and change your general settings, select MENU > Settings > General settings .  
Sounds: Select On or Off  
Button lock: Select either Manual lock or Automatic lock  
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Settings  
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Units: Select Metric units (kg, m) or Imperial units (lbs, ft)  
Language: Select Dansk, Deutsch, English, Español, Fr  
, Italiano, Nederlands, Norsk,Português,  
Suomi or Svenska and accept with START.  
Watch Settings  
To view and change your Watch settings select MENU > Settings > Watch settings  
Alarm: Set alarm repetition Off, Once, Monday to Friday or Every day  
Time: Select Time 1, Time 2 or Time in use  
Date: Set date, Date format and Date separator  
Week' starting day: Select Monday, Saturday or Sunday  
Watch face: Select Time only, Time and logo or Time and event (visible if you have set an event in  
polarpersonaltrainer.com and transfered the data to your training computer with the USB cable and  
WebSync software).  
Quick Menu  
Some settings can be modified with a shortcut button. You can enter Quick menu by pressing and holding  
LIGHT in time mode, pre-training mode or training mode. Depending on which mode you enter the Quick  
menu from, you will find different selections.  
Time Mode  
In time mode, press and hold LIGHT to enter Quick menu.  
Lock buttons and press START. To unlock buttons, press and hold LIGHT again.  
Alarm > Off, Once, Monday to Friday or Every day.  
Time in use > Time 1 or Time 2.  
Pre-training mode  
To enter pre-training mode, press START in time mode. In pre-training mode, press and hold LIGHT to  
enter Quick menu.  
Training Mode  
In training mode, press and hold LIGHT to enter Quick menu.  
Lock buttons and press START. To unlock buttons, press and hold LIGHT again.  
Search sensor and the training computer starts searching for the sensor.  
This selection is available only if the connection to any of the sensors has been lost.  
Calibrate stride sensor to calibrate s3+ stride sensor.  
The option is only available when s3+ stride sensor is in use.  
Training sounds and set training sounds Off, Soft, Loud or Very loud  
Set automatic lap off or On.  
This selection is only available if speed information is available i.e. GPS function or optional CS speed  
sensor/s3+ stride sensor has been set on for the sport profile.  
Settings  
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GPS info to view the number of visible satellites.  
Show zone limits if you want to see the sport zone heart rate limits.  
This selection is only available if heart rate sensor is set on.  
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9. POLAR FITNESS TEST  
The Polar Fitness Test is an easy, safe, and quick way to measure your aerobic (cardiovascular) fitness at  
rest. The result, Polar OwnIndex, is comparable to maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), which is commonly  
used to evaluate aerobic fitness. Your long-term level of physical activity, heart rate, heart rate variability  
at rest, gender, age, height, and body weight all influence OwnIndex. The Polar Fitness Test is developed  
for use by healthy adults.  
Aerobic fitness relates to how well your cardiovascular system works to transport oxygen to your body. The  
better your aerobic fitness, the stronger and more efficient your heart is. Good aerobic fitness has many  
health benefits. For example, it helps in decreasing high blood pressure and your risk of cardiovascular  
diseases and stroke. If you want to improve your aerobic fitness it takes, on average, six weeks of regular  
training to see a noticeable change in your OwnIndex. Less fit individuals see progress even more rapidly.  
The better your aerobic fitness, the smaller the improvements in your OwnIndex.  
Aerobic fitness is best improved by training types that use large muscle groups. Such activities include  
running, cycling, walking, rowing, swimming, skating, and cross-country skiing.  
To monitor your progress, start by measuring your OwnIndex a couple of times during the first two weeks  
in order to get a baseline value, and then repeat the test approximately once a month.  
To make sure the test results are reliable, the following basic requirements apply:  
environment is peaceful. There should be no disturbing noises (e.g. television, radio, or telephone) and no  
other people talking to you.  
day.  
Before the Test  
Wear the heart rate sensor  
For further information, see Wearing the Heart Rate Sensor (page 13)  
Enter User Information  
Select MENU > Settings > User information  
To carry out the Polar Fitness Test, enter your personal user information and long-term physical activity  
level in User settings.  
Performing the Test  
Select MENU > Fitness test > Start test  
The test starts once the training computer detects your heart rate. The progress bar indicates that the test  
is ongoing. Stay relaxed and limit body movements and communication with other people.  
If you have not set your long-term physical activity level in User information settings, Set activity level of  
past 3 months is displayed. Select Top, High, Moderate , or Low. For further information on activity levels,  
If your training computer does not receive your heart rate at the beginning or during the test, the test fails  
and Test failed, Check heart rate sensor is displayed. Check that the heart rate sensor electrodes are wet  
and that the strap is snug enough, and start the test again.  
Polar Fitness Test  
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When the test is over, you hear two beeps. OwnIndex is displayed with a numerical value and level  
evaluation. For further information on evaluations, see Fitness Level Classes.  
Update to VO2max  
?
Yes to save the OwnIndex value to your user settings and OwnIndex results menu.  
No only if you know your laboratory-measured VO2max value, and if it differs more than one fitness  
level class from the OwnIndex result. Your OwnIndex value is saved only to the OwnIndex results menu.  
For further information on fitness trend see OwnIndex results.  
You can stop the test at any time by pressing BACK. Test canceled is displayed for a few seconds.  
After saving the OwnIndex value, it will be used for calculating calorie consumption.  
After the Test  
Fitness Level Classes  
Men  
Age / Years  
20-24  
25-29  
30-34  
35-39  
40-44  
45-49  
50-54  
55-59  
60-65  
Very low  
< 32  
< 31  
< 29  
< 28  
< 26  
< 25  
< 24  
< 22  
< 21  
Low  
32-37  
Fair  
38-43  
Moderate  
44-50  
43-48  
41-45  
39-43  
36-41  
35-39  
33-36  
31-34  
29-32  
Good  
51-56  
Very good  
57-62  
54-59  
52-56  
49-54  
47-51  
44-48  
42-46  
40-43  
37-40  
Elite  
> 62  
31-35  
29-34  
28-32  
26-31  
25-29  
24-27  
22-26  
21-24  
36-42  
35-40  
33-38  
32-35  
30-34  
28-32  
27-30  
25-28  
49-53  
46-51  
44-48  
42-46  
40-43  
37-41  
35-39  
33-36  
> 59  
> 56  
> 54  
> 51  
> 48  
> 46  
> 43  
> 40  
Women  
Age / Years  
20-24  
25-29  
30-34  
35-39  
40-44  
45-49  
50-54  
55-59  
60-65  
Very low  
< 27  
< 26  
< 25  
< 24  
< 22  
< 21  
< 19  
< 18  
< 16  
Low  
Fair  
Moderate  
37-41  
36-40  
34-37  
32-35  
30-33  
28-31  
26-29  
24-27  
22-24  
Good  
Very good  
47-51  
45-49  
43-46  
41-44  
38-41  
36-38  
33-36  
31-33  
28-30  
Elite  
27-31  
26-30  
25-29  
24-27  
22-25  
21-23  
19-22  
18-20  
16-18  
32-36  
31-35  
30-33  
28-31  
26-29  
24-27  
23-25  
21-23  
19-21  
42-46  
41-44  
38-42  
36-40  
34-37  
32-35  
30-32  
28-30  
25-27  
> 51  
> 49  
> 46  
> 44  
> 41  
> 38  
> 36  
> 33  
> 30  
The classification is based on a literature review of 62 studies where VO2max was measured directly in  
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healthy adult subjects in the USA, Canada and 7 European countries. Reference: Shvartz E, Reibold RC.  
Aerobic fitness norms for males and females aged 6 to 75 years: a review. Aviat Space Environ Med;  
61:3-11, 1990.  
Ownindex results  
Select MENU > Fitness test> OwnIndex results  
In the OwnIndex results menu you can see how your OwnIndex value has been developing. Up to 60 latest  
OwnIndex values and respective dates are included in the display. When the latest results file becomes  
full, the oldest result is automatically deleted.  
Delete OwnIndex Value  
Select MENU > Fitness test> OwnIndex results  
Select the value you wish to delete and press and hold LIGHT > Delete OwnIndex (xx) value? No/Yes is  
displayed. Confirm with START.  
Analyzing OwnIndex Results with Software  
Downloading test results to polarpersonaltrainer.com offers you the possibility of analyzing results in  
various ways, as well as accessing more detailed information about your progress.  
Polar Fitness Test  
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10. NEW ACCESSORY  
Pairing a New Sensor with the Training Computer  
Before taking a new sensor into use, it has to be introduced to the training computer. This is called  
pairing and only takes a few seconds. Pairing ensures that your training computer receives signals from  
your sensor only, and enables disturbance-free training in a group.  
Before entering an event or race, make sure that you do the pairing at home. This is to prevent  
interference due to the long-range data transmission. When pairing new sensor make sure you are not near  
(40 m/131 ft) other similar sensors.  
Pairing a New Heart Rate Sensor with the Training Computer  
If you have not paired your training computer with a heart rate sensor before, pairing is performed  
automatically when you start a training session. Wear the training computer and the heart rate sensor and  
start by pressing START. Searching for new heart rate sensor is displayed. The training computer  
searches for a heart rate sensor signal. Heart rate sensor found is displayed when the the training  
computer finds the signal.  
Wear the heart rate sensor and make sure that you are not near (40 m/131 ft) other heart rate sensors.  
1. Go to Menu > Settings > Sport profiles > Sport > Heart rate sensor > Search new and press START.  
2. The training computer starts searching for the sensor signal, Searching for new heart rate sensor is  
displayed.  
3. Once the new sensor is identified, Heart rate sensor found is displayed. Pairing is completed.  
4. If the search is not successful, Heart rate sensor not found or Other heart rate sensors interfering.  
Move further., Try again? YES / NO is displayed.  
5. Select YES to start the search again.  
6. Select NO to cancel the searching.  
7. To return to time mode, press and hold the BACK button.  
Only one heart rate sensor can be paired with your training computer at a time. However, the training  
computer remembers the last three pairings. If the most recently paired heart rate sensor is not available,  
but the previous is, the training computer receives the heart rate signal from the previous sensor.  
Pairing a New Speed Sensor with the Training Computer  
Make sure the speed sensor has been correctly installed. For more information on installing the speed  
sensor refer to the user manual of the speed sensor or for video tutorial at  
http://www.polar.com/en/polar_community/videos [http://www.polar.com/en/support/video_tutorials].  
You can have two bikes on the training computer. Each bike has to have the sensors separately taught.  
You can only teach one speed sensor to one bike. If you have two bikes, both of them can use the same  
speed sensor. Or, they can have their own set of sensors. When you pair a new sensor to a bike that  
already has a previously taught sensor in the memory, the new sensor replaces the previous one.  
1. Go to MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Cycling (Bike 1)/Cycling (Bike 2) > Bike 1 settings/Bike 2  
settings > Speed sensor > Search new and press START.  
2. Press OK (START) to start test drive is displayed.  
3. Press START and Searching for new speed sensor is displayed. The training computer starts searching  
for the speed sensor signal. Rotate the wheel a few times to activate the sensor. The flashing red light on  
the sensor indicates that the sensor is activated.  
4. Once the new speed sensor is identified, Speed sensor found is displayed. Pairing is complete.  
5. If the search is not successful, Speed sensor not found or Other speed sensors interfering. Move  
further., Try again? YES / NO is displayed.  
6. Select YES to start the search again.  
7. Select NO to cancel the searching.  
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8. To return to time mode, press and hold the BACK button.  
Pairing a New Cadence Sensor with the Training Computer  
Make sure the cadence sensor has been correctly installed. For more information on installing the cadence  
sensor refer to the user manual of the cadence sensor or to the video tutorial at  
http://www.polar.com/en/polar_community/videos [http://www.polar.com/en/support/video_tutorials].  
You can have two bikes on the training computer. Each bike has to have the sensors separately taught.  
You can only teach one cadence sensor to one bike. If you have two bikes, both of them can use the same  
cadence sensor. Or, they can have their own set of sensors. When you pair a new sensor to a bike that  
already has a previously taught sensor in the memory, the new sensor replaces the previous one.  
1. Go to MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Cycling (Bike 1)/Cycling (Bike 2) > Bike 1 settings/Bike 2  
settings > Cadence sensor > Search new and press START.  
2. Press OK (START) to start test drive is displayed.  
3. Press START and Searching new cadence sensor is displayed. The training computer starts searching  
for the cadence sensor signal. Rotate the wheel a few times to activate the sensor. The flashing red light  
on the sensor indicates that the sensor is activated.  
4. Once the new cadence sensor is identified, Cadence sensor found is displayed. Pairing is complete.  
5. If the search is not successful, Cadence sensor not found or Other cadence sensors interfering. Move  
further., Try again? YES / NO is displayed.  
6. Select YES to start the search again.  
7. Select NO to cancel the searching.  
8. To return to time mode, press and hold the BACK button.  
Pairing a New Stride Sensor with the Training Computer  
Make sure the stride sensor has been correctly attached to your shoe. For more information on setting up  
the stride sensor refer to the user manual of the stride sensor or to the video tutorial at  
http://www.polar.com/en/polar_community/videos [http://www.polar.com/en/support/video_tutorials].  
You can only pair one stride sensor to the training computer at a time. If you pair a new sensor, the new  
sensor always replaces the previous one you had paired. The stride sensor can only be paired to the  
Running sport profile.  
1. Go to MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Running > Stride sensor > Search new and press START.  
2. Searching for new stride sensor is displayed. The training computer starts searching for the stride  
sensor signal.  
3. Once the new stride sensor is identified, Stride sensor found is displayed. Pairing is complete.  
4. If the search is not successful, Stride sensor not found or Other stride sensors interfering. Move  
further., Try again? YES / NO is displayed.  
5. Select YES to start the search again.  
6. Select NO to cancel the searching.  
7. To return to time mode, press and hold the BACK button.  
Calibrate the Polar s3+ Stride Sensor  
Polar s3+ stride sensor can be set on only for the Running sport profile.  
Calibration of the stride sensor improves the accuracy of speed/pace and distance measurements. It is  
recommended that you calibrate the stride sensor before using it for the first time, if there are significant  
changes in your running style, or if the position of the stride sensor on the shoe is dramatically changed  
(e.g. if you have new shoes or if you switch the sensor from your right shoe to your left one). You can  
calibrate the stride sensor by running a known accurate distance, or by setting the calibration factor  
manually. The calibration should be done at the speed you normally run. If you run at different speeds,  
the calibration should be done at your average speed.  
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Calibration by Running Wizard  
Before calibration the stride sensor needs to be paired with the training computer. For more information on pairing  
the stride sensor and training computer, see New Accessory (page 38).  
Make sure the stride sensor function in the training computer is on. Press UP to enter MENU and select  
Settings > Sport profiles > Running> Stride sensor > On.  
To calibrate a certain distance with a step-by-step guidance, select  
1. MENU > Settings > Sport profiles > Running > Stride sensor calibration > By running. Set distance is  
displayed.  
2. Adjust the distance, how far you wish to run, to calibrate the stride sensor (minimum calibration distance  
is 400 meters / 0.3 miles). Press START. Stand still until stride sensor is found is displayed.  
3. Press OK (START) and run xx.x km/mi is displayed. On the starting line, press START and start your run  
by taking the first step with your sensor foot and run the preset distance at a steady pace.  
4. Press OK (START) after xx.x km/mi is displayed. Stop exactly on the finish line of the preset distance,  
stand still and press START.  
Once you reach the preset distance, stop exactly on the finish line of the preset distance and stand still for  
calibration. If you move before Calibrated to x.xxx is displayed, the calibration fails.  
5. When the calibration succeeds, Calibrated to x.xxx is displayed. The new calibration factor is used.  
Continue recording? is displayed. If you wish to continue the training session recording, select Yes.  
Otherwise, select No.  
6. To cancel the calibration press BACK, Calibration canceled is displayed.  
Set Calibration Factor Manually  
The calibration factor is calculated as a ratio of the actual distance to the uncalibrated distance. Example:  
you run 1200m, and the training computer shows a distance of 1180m, the calibration factor is 1.000.  
Calculate the new calibration factor as follows: 1.000*1200/1180 = 1.017. The range of the calibration  
factor during manual calibration is 0.500-1.500. If you define the calibration factor below or above these  
values, calibration fails.  
To calibrate the stride sensor manually before training, select  
1. Settings > Sport profiles > Running> Stride sensor > Set factor.  
2. Adjust the factor. Calibareted to x.xx is displayed.  
The calibration factor can also be set during training, when the stride sensor is in use. Press and hold  
LIGHT to enter the Quick menu and then select Calibrate stride sensor > Set factor . Calibareted to x.xx  
is displayed and you can continue running.  
Calibrate Sensor by Running a Known Distance (on-the-fly calibration)  
Before calibration the stride sensor needs to be paired with the training computer. For more information on pairing  
the stride sensor and training computer, see New Accessory (page 38).  
Set correct lap distance  
You can calibrate the sensor at any phase of your training with lap distance correction, provided you are  
not training with distance-based targets. Just run a known distance, preferably more than 1000 meters /  
0,62 miles.  
Make sure the stride sensor function in the training computer is on. In time mode press UP to enter MENU  
and select Settings > Sport profiles > Running> Stride sensor > On.  
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1. In time mode press START and select Running as your sport profile. Press START again and start  
running.  
2. At the starting point of a known lap distance, press START (minimum calibration distance is 400 meters  
/ 0.3 miles). When you have run the whole lap distance, press START.  
3. Then calibrate the sensor: Press and hold LIGHT to go enter Quick menu. Select Calibrate stride  
sensor.  
4. Select Set correct lap distance. Fix the displayed lap distance with the distance you just ran, and press  
START. Calibrated to x.xxx is displayed. The sensor is now calibrated and ready for action.  
Set correct distance  
Alternatively, you can calibrate the stride sensor by fixing the whole distance gathered.  
1. In time mode press START and select Running as your sport profile. Press START again and start  
running.  
2. Press and hold LIGHT to enter the Quick menu. Select Calibrate stride sensor.  
3. Select Set correct distance. Fix the displayed distance with the distance you just ran, and press  
START. Calibrated to x.xxx is displayed. The sensor is now calibrated and ready for action.  
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11. POLAR SMART COACHING  
Polar Sport Zones  
Polar sport zones introduce a new level of effectiveness in heart rate-based training. Training is divided  
into five sport zones based on percentages of maximum heart rate. With sport zones, you can easily select  
and monitor training intensities.  
Target zone  
Intensity % of  
HRmax, bpm  
Example  
durations  
Training benefit  
VERY HARD  
BENEFITS: develops maximum performance and  
speed  
FEELS LIKE: very exhausting for breathing and  
muscles  
less than 5  
minutes  
RECOMMENDED FOR: fit persons and for athletic  
training  
HARD  
BENEFITS: increases maximum performance  
capacity  
FEELS LIKE: muscular fatigue and heavy  
breathing.  
RECOMMENDED FOR: everybody for shorter  
exercises  
MODERATE  
LIGHT  
BENEFITS: improves aerobic fitness  
FEELS LIKE: light muscular strain, easy  
breathing, moderate sweating  
minutes  
minutes  
minutes  
RECOMMENDED FOR: everybody for moderately  
long exercises  
BENEFITS: improves basic endurance and fat  
burning  
FEELS LIKE: comfortable, easy breathing, low  
muscle load, light sweating  
RECOMMENDED FOR: everybody for longer and  
frequently repeated shorter exercises  
114-133 bpm  
VERY LIGHT  
BENEFITS: improves overall health and helps  
recovery  
FEELS LIKE: very easy for breathing and muscles  
RECOMMENDED FOR: weight management and  
active recovery  
HRmax = Maximum heart rate (220-age). Example: 30 years old,  
Training in heart rate zone 1 is done at a very low intensity. The main training principle is that  
performance improves when recovering after, and not only during training. Accelerate the recovery process  
with very light intensity training.  
Training in heart rate zone 2 is for endurance training, an essential part of any training program. Training  
sessions in this zone are easy and aerobic. Long-duration training in this light zone results in effective  
energy expenditure. Progress will require persistence.  
Aerobic power is enhanced in heart rate zone 3. The training intensity is higher than in sport zones 1 and  
2, but still mainly aerobic. Training in sport zone 3 may, for example, consist of intervals followed by  
recovery. Training in this zone is especially effective for improving the efficiency of blood circulation in  
the heart and skeletal muscles.  
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If your goal is to compete at top potential, you will have to train in heart rate zones 4 and 5. In these  
zones, you exercise anaerobically in intervals of up to 10 minutes. The shorter the interval, the higher the  
intensity. Sufficient recovery between intervals is very important. The training pattern in zones 4 and 5 is  
designed to produce peak performance.  
The Polar target heart rate zones can be personalized by using a laboratory measured HRmax value, or by  
taking a field test to measure the value yourself. When training in a target heart rate zone, try to make use  
of the entire zone. The mid-zone is a good target, but keeping your heart rate at that exact level all the  
time is not necessary. Heart rate gradually adjusts to training intensity. For instance, when crossing from  
heart rate target zone 1 to 3, the circulatory system and heart rate will adjust in 3-5 minutes.  
Heart rate responds to training intensity depending on factors such as fitness and recovery levels, as well  
as environmental factors. It is important to look out for subjective feelings of fatigue, and to adjust your  
training program accordingly.  
Heart Rate Variability  
Heart rate varies with every heartbeat. Heart rate variability (HRV) is the variation of beat to beat intervals,  
also known as R-R intervals.  
HRV indicates the fluctuations of heart rate around an average heart rate. An average heart rate of 60  
beats per minute (bpm) does not mean that the interval between successive heartbeats would be exactly  
1.0 sec, instead they may fluctuate/vary from 0.5 sec up to 2.0 sec.  
HRV is affected by aerobic fitness. HRV of a well-conditioned heart is generally large at rest. Other factors  
that affect HRV are age, genetics, body position, time of day, and health status. During exercise, HRV  
decreases as heart rate and exercise intensity increase. HRV also decreases during periods of mental  
stress.  
HRV is regulated by the autonomic nervous system. Parasympathetic activity decreases heart rate and  
increases HRV, whereas sympathetic activity increases heart rate and decreases HRV.  
HRV is used in the OwnIndex and ZoneOptimizer features.  
Polar ZoneOptimizer  
The Polar ZoneOptimizer feature adjusts your sport zones based on your personal information including  
heart rate variability. It recommends lower intensity training when little heart rate variability is detected  
and higher intensity training when plenty of heart rate variability is detected. It also gives you feedback on  
your heart rate zones in comparison to your normal level.  
Benefits of the ZoneOptimizer feature  
Each Sport Zone has a different physiological response which is described briefly in the Polar Sport Zones  
Polar Smart Coaching  
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(page 42). The ZoneOptimizer measurement takes your personal information, including your heart rate  
variability, into account and personalizes your sport zones before every training session.  
ZoneOptimizer measurement  
Polar ZoneOptimizer recommends lower intensity training when little heart rate variability is detected and  
higher intensity training, when plenty of heart rate variability is detected at a given heart rate. It also gives  
you feedback if your current limits are higher, normal or lower than your normal level, when compared to  
your earlier measurements. You may get feedback on your daily physiological status by paying attention to  
how fast and how easily you can do training at the recommended heart rates.  
Action  
Heart rate in beats per  
minute  
Duration  
How to achieve  
Keep your heart rate  
between 70 and 100  
beats per minute.  
70 - 100 bpm  
100 - 130 bpm  
130 bpm <  
2 minutes  
Standing or training  
with very light training  
intensity, for example,  
walking slowly.  
Increase heart rate  
gradually from 100 to  
130 beats per minute  
within two minutes.  
2 minutes  
Walking briskly or  
cycling/ jogging at low  
intensity during warm  
up.  
Gradually increase your  
heart rate above 130  
beats per minute.  
At least 30 seconds  
Gradually increase your  
heart rate and continue  
as planned. The  
ZoneOptimizer  
determination will  
finalize in one minutes  
time.  
Measurement phases  
Target zone limit determination is done in three phases.  
1. Preparing for training session and plenty of heart rate variability exists. As there is a lot of heart rate  
variability, this is a very good and sensitive phase to detect daily changes. In absolute figures this means  
heart rates from 70 to 100 beats per minute.  
2. Warming up, heart rate rises slowly and heart rate variability drops. During this phase heart rate  
variability starts dropping, and the body prepares for higher intensities. In absolute figures this means  
heart rates from 100 to 130 beats per minute.  
3. Heart rate variability levels off. After this phase heart rate variability stays at a very low level or almost  
disappears. This usually takes place at around 130 beats per minute and higher. All Zone limits are  
updated after heart rate has been continuously, for at least 30 seconds, above the upper limit of Phase2  
(130 beats pre minute / 75% of HRmax).  
ZoneOptimizer guidance normally uses absolute figures (70-100-130 beats per minute), but the two  
uppermost figures change if personal HRmax is very low. The second phase upper limit, which is normally  
130 beats per minute, is limited not to exceed 75% of HRmax. This is done automatically without actions  
from you.  
ZoneOptimizer allows different durations of Phase1 (preparing for training session, heart rate in between  
70-100 beats per minute) and Phase2 (warming up, heart rate in between 100-130 beats per minute).  
The recommended minimum durations to get the limits successfully determined are 2 minutes at Phase1,  
2 minutes at Phase2 and half a minute or more in Phase3.  
ZoneOptimizer function is developed for the use of healthy people. Some health conditions may cause heart rate  
variability-based ZoneOptimizer determination to fail or give lower intensity targets. These conditions include high  
blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, and certain medications.  
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Maximum Heart Rate  
Maximum heart rate (HRmax) is the highest number of heartbeats per minute (bpm) during maximum  
physical exertion. It is individual and depends on age, hereditary factors, and fitness level. It may also  
vary according to the type of sport performed. HRmax is used to express training intensity.  
Determining Maximum Heart Rate  
Your HRmax can be determined in several ways.  
clinically measured, usually on a maximal treadmill or by  
max  
taking a bicycle stress test supervised by a cardiologist or an exercise physiologist.  
by taking a field test together with a training partner.  
max  
can also be estimated by using the commonly used formula: 220 - age, although research shows  
max  
that this method is not very accurate, especially for older persons or those who have been fit for many  
years.  
If you have done some hard training in recent weeks and know that you can safely reach maximum heart  
rate, you can safely take a test to determine your HRmax yourself. Having a training buddy with you during  
the test is recommended. If you are uncertain, consult your physician before undertaking the test.  
Here is an example of a simple test.  
Step 1: Warm up for 15 minutes on a flat surface, building up to your usual training pace.  
Step 2: Choose a hill or stairwell that will take more than 2 minutes to climb. Run up the hill/steps once,  
building to as hard a pace as you can hold for 20 minutes. Return to the base of the hill/steps.  
Step 3: Run up the hill/steps again, building towards a pace you could just about hold for 3 kilometers.  
Note your highest heart rate. Your maximum is approximately 10 beats higher than the noted value.  
Step 4: Run back down the hill, allowing your heart rate to drop 30-40 beats per minute.  
Step 5: Run up the hill/steps once again at a pace that you can only hold for 1 minute. Try to run halfway  
up the hills/steps. Note your highest heart rate. This brings you close to your maximum heart rate. Use this  
value as your maximum heart rate to set training zones.  
Step 6: Make sure you get a good cool-down, a minimum of 10 minutes.  
Running Cadence and Stride Length  
Cadence* is the number of times the foot with the stride sensor* hits the ground per minute.  
Stride length* is the average length of one step. That is the distance between your right and left foot  
contacting the ground.  
Running speed = 2 * stride length * cadence  
There are two ways to run faster: moving your legs at a higher cadence or taking longer steps.  
Elite long distance runners typically run with a high cadence of 85-95. On uphills, typical cadence values  
are lower. On downhills they are higher. Runners adjust stride length to gather speed: stride length  
increases as speed increases.  
Yet one of the most common mistakes novice runners make is over-striding. The most efficient stride  
length is the natural one  
strengthening your leg muscles so they take you forward with a longer stride.  
You should also work on maximizing cadence efficiency. Cadence does not progress easily, but if properly  
trained, you will be able to sustain it throughout your runs and maximize your performance. To develop  
cadence, the nerve-muscle connection needs to be trained - and reasonably frequently. A session of  
cadence training a week is a good start. Incorporate some cadence work into the rest of your week. During  
long easy runs, you could include some faster cadence every now and then.  
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A good way of improving stride length is to undertake specific strength work, like running hills, running in  
soft sand, or running up steps. A six-week training period including strength work should result in  
noticeable improvements in stride length, and if combined with some faster leg speed work (such as short  
strides at best 5km pace), noticeable improvements should be seen in overall speed, as well.  
*Optional s3+ stride sensor required.  
Polar Running Index  
Running Index offers an easy way to monitor performance changes. Performance (how fast/easily you run  
at a given pace) is directly influenced by aerobic fitness (VO2max) and training economy (how efficient your  
body is at running), and Running Index is a measurement of this influence. By recording your Running  
Index over time, you can monitor progress. Improvement means that running at a given pace requires less  
of an effort, or that your pace is faster at a given level of exertion. The Running Index feature calculates  
such improvements. Running Index also gives you daily information on your running performance level  
which may vary from day to day.  
Benefits of Running Index:  
performance.  
training sessions.  
Running Index is calculated during every training session when heart rate and the GPS function is on /  
s3+ stride sensor is in use, and when the following requirements apply:  
between maximum heart rate (HRmax), and resting heart rate (HRrest  
)
Example:  
A person with HRmax190 bpm and HRrest 60 bpm  
40% (190-60) + 60 = 112 bpm (heart rate should be at least 112 bpm)  
For a precise exercise heart rate, you need your exact HRmax and HRrest. When using estimated HRmax, exercise  
heart rate values are always estimates.  
Make sure that the stride sensor is calibrated. Calculation begins when you start recording the session.  
During the session, you may stop once at traffic lights, for example, without interrupting the calculation.  
In the end, your training computer displays a Running Index value and stores the result in the Training  
files section. Compare your result to the table below. Using the software, you can monitor and analyze  
your progress in Running Index values against time and different running speeds. Or compare values from  
different training sessions and analyze them in short and long term.  
Short-term analysis  
Men  
Age / Years  
20-24  
Very low  
< 32  
Low  
32-37  
Fair  
38-43  
Moderate  
44-50  
Good  
51-56  
Very good  
57-62  
Elite  
> 62  
25-29  
< 31  
31-35  
29-34  
28-32  
36-42  
35-40  
33-38  
43-48  
49-53  
46-51  
44-48  
54-59  
> 59  
> 56  
> 54  
30-34  
< 29  
41-45  
52-56  
35-39  
< 28  
39-43  
49-54  
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Age / Years  
40-44  
Very low  
< 26  
Low  
26-31  
Fair  
32-35  
Moderate  
36-41  
Good  
42-46  
Very good  
47-51  
Elite  
> 51  
45-49  
< 25  
25-29  
24-27  
22-26  
21-24  
30-34  
28-32  
27-30  
25-28  
35-39  
40-43  
37-41  
35-39  
33-36  
44-48  
> 48  
> 46  
> 43  
> 40  
50-54  
< 24  
33-36  
42-46  
55-59  
< 22  
31-34  
40-43  
60-65  
< 21  
29-32  
37-40  
Women  
Age / Years  
20-24  
25-29  
30-34  
35-39  
40-44  
45-49  
50-54  
55-59  
60-65  
Very low  
< 27  
< 26  
< 25  
< 24  
< 22  
< 21  
< 19  
< 18  
< 16  
Low  
Fair  
Moderate  
37-41  
36-40  
34-37  
32-35  
30-33  
28-31  
26-29  
24-27  
22-24  
Good  
Very good  
47-51  
45-49  
43-46  
41-44  
38-41  
36-38  
33-36  
31-33  
28-30  
Elite  
27-31  
26-30  
25-29  
24-27  
22-25  
21-23  
19-22  
18-20  
16-18  
32-36  
31-35  
30-33  
28-31  
26-29  
24-27  
23-25  
21-23  
19-21  
42-46  
41-44  
38-42  
36-40  
34-37  
32-35  
30-32  
28-30  
25-27  
> 51  
> 49  
> 46  
> 44  
> 41  
> 38  
> 36  
> 33  
> 30  
The classification is based on a literature review of 62 studies where VO2max was measured directly in  
healthy adult subjects in the USA, Canada and 7 European countries. Reference: Shvartz E, Reibold RC.  
Aerobic fitness norms for males and females aged 6 to 75 years: a review. Aviat Space Environ Med;  
61:3-11, 1990.  
There may be some daily variation in the Running Indexes due to running circumstance changes, for  
example different surface, hills, wind or temperature.  
Long-term analysis  
The single Running Index values form a trend that predicts your success in running certain distances.  
The following chart estimates the duration that a runner can achieve in certain distances when performing  
maximally. Use your long-term Running Index average in the interpretation of the chart. The prediction is  
best for those Running Index values that have been received at speed and running circumstances similar  
to the target performance.  
Running Index Cooper test (m) 5 km (h:mm:ss)  
10 km (h:mm:ss)  
21.098 km  
(h:mm:ss)  
42.195 km  
(h:mm:ss)  
36  
38  
40  
42  
44  
1800  
1900  
2000  
2100  
2200  
0:36:20  
0:34:20  
0:32:20  
0:30:40  
0:29:10  
1:15:10  
1:10:50  
1:07:00  
1:03:30  
1:00:20  
2:48:00  
5:43:00  
2:38:00  
2:29:30  
2:21:30  
2:14:30  
5:24:00  
5:06:00  
4:51:00  
4:37:00  
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Running Index Cooper test (m) 5 km (h:mm:ss)  
10 km (h:mm:ss)  
21.098 km  
(h:mm:ss)  
42.195 km  
(h:mm:ss)  
46  
48  
50  
52  
54  
56  
58  
60  
62  
64  
66  
68  
70  
72  
74  
76  
78  
2300  
2400  
2500  
2600  
2700  
2800  
2900  
3000  
3100  
3200  
3300  
3350  
3450  
3550  
3650  
3750  
3850  
0:27:50  
0:26:30  
0:25:20  
0:24:20  
0:23:20  
0:22:30  
0:21:40  
0:20:50  
0:20:10  
0:19:30  
0:18:50  
0:18:20  
0:17:50  
0:17:10  
0:16:40  
0:16:20  
0:15:50  
0:57:30  
0:55:00  
0:52:40  
0:50:30  
0:48:30  
0:46:40  
0:45:00  
0:43:20  
0:41:50  
0:40:30  
0:39:10  
0:38:00  
0:36:50  
0:35:50  
0:34:50  
0:33:50  
0:33:00  
2:08:00  
4:24:00  
2:02:00  
1:57:00  
1:52:00  
1:47:30  
1:43:30  
1:39:30  
1:36:00  
1:32:30  
1:29:30  
1:26:30  
1:24:00  
1:21:30  
1:19:00  
1:17:00  
1:14:30  
1:12:30  
4:12:00  
4:02:00  
3:52:00  
3:43:00  
3:35:00  
3:27:00  
3:20:00  
3:13:00  
3:07:00  
3:01:00  
2:55:00  
2:50:00  
2:45:00  
2:40:00  
2:36:00  
2:32:00  
Polar Training Load Feature  
The training load feature in the calendar view in polarpersonaltrainer.com will conveniently tell you how  
hard your training session was, and how much time is needed for complete recovery.This feature tells you  
if you have recovered enough for your next session, helping you find the balance between rest and  
training. In polarpersonaltrainer.com you can control your total workload, optimize your training, and  
monitor your performance development.  
Training load takes into consideration different factors which affect your training load and recovery time,  
such as heart rate during training, duration of training, and your individual factors, e.g. sex, age, height,  
and weight. Continuous monitoring of training load and recovery will help you recognize personal limits,  
avoid over or under training, and adjust training intensity and duration according to your daily and weekly  
targets.  
Training Load feature helps you to control total workload, optimize your training, and monitor your  
performance development. The feature makes different kinds of training sessions comparable with each  
other, and helps you to find the perfect balance between rest and training.  
For more information on Training load, see polarpersonaltrainer.com Help.  
Polar Endurance Training Program for Running and Cycling  
Polar has created tailored Endurance training programs for running and cycling, which are available for  
you in polarpersonaltrainer.com. You get a personalized training program to best suit your current fitness  
level.  
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Endurance training programs are ideal for you, if running or cycling is incorporated in your main fitness  
routine. Endurance programs improve cardiovascular fitness and are not targeted to any sport event.  
Endurance training programs are continual i.e. the program will continue as long as you want to stop it.  
The program guides you to train in the correct way by defining the training volume, training intensity and  
training placement on weekdays, for the optimal fitness improvement.  
The training program works together with the ZoneOptimizer feature, which means that the training  
program sessions are modified according to your personal sport zones determined by the ZoneOptimizer.  
For more information, see Polar ZoneOptimizer (page 43).  
Suitable Program Starting Level for Everybody  
Program level must be known before a suitable training module can be selected. The determination of the  
program level can be done:  
General programs are compiled of 4 week long training modules. Training module in level 1 is the least  
demanding and the module in level 20 is the most demanding. Steps between 1-20 are linear, which  
means that you can improve your fitness step by step (for example from level 7 to level 8 et cetera).  
Training modules and your training activity are linked together so that training modules get more  
challenging as your training activity increases, and also less challenging if your training activity decreases.  
Beginner stage consists of levels 1-5. At this stage the 4 weeks training module contains mainly medium  
and long training sessions; interval training sessions are given from level 5 onwards.  
Moderate stage consists of levels 6-10. At this stage the 4 weeks training module contains mainly  
medium, long and interval training sessions; tempo training sessions are given from level 11 onwards.  
Advanced stage consists of levels 11-20. At this stage the 4 weeks training module contains mainly  
medium, long, interval and tempo training sessions; easy training sessions are given from level 12  
onwards.  
For more information on Polar Endurance training programs see polarpersonaltrainer.com Help.  
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12. IMPORTANT INFORMATION  
Caring for Your Product  
Like any electronic device, the Polar training computer should be treated with care. The suggestions below  
will help you fulfil guarantee obligations and enjoy this product for many years to come.  
Training computer  
Keep your training computer clean. Use a damp paper towel to wipe dirt from the training computer. To  
maintain the water resistance, do not wash the training computer with a pressure washer. Do not immerse  
the training computer in water. Never use alcohol or any abrasive material such as steel wool or cleaning  
chemicals.  
After each time of using the USB port of the training computer, check visually that there is no hair, dust  
or other dirt on the sealing surface area of the lid/back case. Gently wipe to remove any dirt. Do not use  
any sharp tools or equipment for cleaning, which could cause scratches to the plastic parts.  
Not suitable for bathing or swimming. Protected against wash splashes and raindrops. Do not immerse the  
training computer in water. Using the training computer in excessive rainfall may cause interference on GPS  
reception.  
Operating temperatures are -10  
If you use the RC3 GPS unit in extreme conditions (high humidity and big temperature changes), some  
water might condensate inside the unit. This does not damage the unit and water will evaporate after a  
while. If you want to speed up the evaporation, open the USB lid to ventilate the unit. Please remember to  
close the USB lid properly afterwards to secure waterproofness.  
Heart rate sensor  
Connector: Detach the connector from the strap after every use and dry the connector with a soft towel.  
Clean the connector with a mild soap and water solution when needed. Never use alcohol or any abrasive  
material (eg. steel wool or cleaning chemicals).  
Strap: Rinse the strap under running water after every use and hang to dry. Clean the strap gently with a  
mild soap and water solution when needed. Do not use moisturizing soaps, because they can leave residue  
on the strap. Do not soak, iron, dry clean or bleach the strap. Do not stretch the strap or bend the  
electrode areas sharply.  
Check the washing instructions on the label of the strap.  
CS speed sensor, CS cadence sensor and s3+ stride sensor  
Clean the sensors with a mild soap and water solution and rinse them with clean water. To maintain the  
water resistance, do not wash the sensors with a pressure washer. Do not immerse the CS speed sensor,  
CS cadence sensor or s3+ stride sensor in water. Never use alcohol or any abrasive material such as steel  
wool or cleaning chemicals.  
Avoid hard hits to the sensors, as these may damage the sensor units.  
Storing  
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Keep your training computer and sensors in a cool and dry place. Do not keep them in a damp  
environment, in non-breathable material (a plastic bag or a sports bag) nor with conductive material (a wet  
towel). Do not expose the training computer to direct sunlight for extended periods, such as by leaving it  
in a car or mounted on the bike mount.  
It is recommended to store the training computer partially or fully charged. The battery slowly loses its  
charge when it is stored. If you are going to store the training computer for several months, it is  
recommended to recharge it after a few months. This will prolong the battery lifetime.  
Dry and store the strap and the connector separately to maximize the heart rate sensor battery lifetime.  
Keep the heart rate sensor in a cool and dry place. To prevent snap oxidation, do not store the heart rate  
sensor wet in non-breathing material, such as a sports bag. Do not expose the heart rate sensor to direct  
sunlight for extended periods.  
Service  
During the two-year guarantee/warranty period we recommend that you have service done by an authorized  
Polar Service Center only. The warranty does not cover damage or consequential damage caused by service  
not authorized by Polar Electro. For further information, see Limited International Polar Guarantee  
(page ? ).  
For contact information and all Polar Service Center addresses, visit www.polar.com/support  
Register your Polar product at http://register.polar.fi/ to ensure we can keep improving our products and  
services to better meet your needs.  
The username for your Polar Account is always your email address. The same username and password are valid for  
Polar product registration, polarpersonaltrainer.com, Polar discussion forum and newsletter registration.  
Batteries  
The Polar RC3 GPS training computer has an internal, rechargable battery. Rechargeable batteries have a  
limited number of charge cycles. You can charge and discharge the battery over 300 times before a  
notable decrease in its capacity. The number of charge cycles also varies according to use and operating  
conditions.  
At the end of the working life of the product Polar encourages you to minimize possible effects of waste on  
the environment and human health by following local waste disposal regulations and, where possible,  
utilizing separate collection of electronic devices. Do not dispose of this product as unsorted municipal  
waste.  
The Polar H2/H3 heart rate sensor has a user changeable battery. To change the battery yourself, please  
follow the instructions carefully as instructed in chapter Change the Heart Rate Sensor Battery.  
The batteries for the CS speed sensor W.I.N.D. and CS cadence sensor W.I.N.D. cannot be replaced. Polar  
has designed the sensors to be sealed in order to maximise mechanical longevity and reliability. The  
sensors have long-life batteries inside. To purchase a new sensor contact your authorized Polar Service  
Center or retailer.  
For battery information of the Polar s3+ stride sensor, consult the user manual for the product in question.  
Keep the batteries away from children. If swallowed, contact a doctor immediately. Batteries should be disposed of  
properly according to local regulations.  
Change the Heart Rate Sensor Battery  
To change the battery of the heart rate sensor yourself, carefully follow the instructions below:  
When changing the battery, make sure the sealing ring is not damaged, in which case you should replace  
it with a new one. You can purchase the sealing ring/battery kits at well-equipped Polar retailers and  
authorized Polar Services. In the USA and Canada, the additional sealing rings are available at authorized  
Important Information  
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When handling a new, fully charged battery, avoid clasp-like contact, i.e. simultaneously from both sides,  
with metal or electrically conducting tools, like tweezers. This may short circuit the battery, causing it to  
discharge more rapidly. Typically, short circuiting does not damage the battery, but it may decrease the  
capacity and the lifetime of the battery.  
Changing Heart Rate Sensor Battery  
1. Lever the battery cover open by using the clip on  
the strap.  
2. Insert the battery inside the cover with the  
negative (-) side outwards. Make sure the sealing  
ring is in the groove to ensure water resistance.  
3. Align the ledge on the battery cover with the slot  
on the connector and press the battery cover  
back into place. You should hear a snap.  
Danger of explosion if the battery is replaced with wrong type.  
Precautions  
The Polar RC3 GPS training computer shows your performance indicators. The training computer is  
designed to indicate the level of physiological strain and recovery during and after an exercise session. It  
measures heart rate, speed and distance. It also measures running cadence when used with s3+ stride  
sensor and cycling cadence when used with a CS cadence sensor W.I.N.D.. No other use is intended or  
implied.  
The training computer should not be used for obtaining environmental measurements that require  
professional or industrial precision.  
Interference During Training  
Electromagnetic Interference and Training Equipment  
Disturbance may occur near electrical devices. Also WLAN base stations may cause interference when  
training with the training computer. To avoid erratic reading or misbehavior, move away from possible  
sources of disturbance.  
Training equipment with electronic or electrical components such as LED displays, motors and electrical  
brakes may cause interfering stray signals. To solve these problems, try the following:  
1. Remove the heart rate sensor strap from your chest and use the training equipment as you would  
normally.  
2. Move the training computer around until you find an area in which it displays no stray reading or does not  
flash the heart symbol. Interference is often worst directly in front of the display panel of the equipment,  
while the left or right side of the display is relatively free of disturbance.  
3. Put the heart rate sensor strap back on your chest and keep the training computer in this  
interference-free area as much as possible.  
If the training computer still does not work with the training equipment, it may be electrically too noisy for  
wireless heart rate measurement. For further information, see www.polar.com/support  
[http://www.polar.com/support].  
Parts of RC3 GPS are magnetic. It may attract metallic materials and it's magnetic field may interfere with  
a compass. To avoid interference, it is recommended to wear your compass on one arm (at the level of  
your chest) and your RC3 GPS on the other arm's wrist. Do not place credit cards or other magnetic  
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storage media near RC3 GPS, because information stored on them may be erased.  
Minimizing Risks When Training  
Training may include some risk. Before beginning a regular training program, it is recommended that you  
answer the following questions concerning your health status. If you answer yes to any of these questions,  
we recommend that you consult a doctor before starting any training program.  
Note that in addition to training intensity, medications for heart conditions, blood pressure, psychological  
conditions, asthma, breathing, etc., as well as some energy drinks, alcohol, and nicotine may also affect  
heart rate.  
It is important to be sensitive to your  
If you feel unexpected pain or  
excessive fatigue when training, it is recommended that you stop the training or continue at a lighter  
intensity.  
Note! If you are using a pacemaker, you can use Polar training computers. In theory interference to  
pacemaker caused by Polar products should not be possible. In practice no reports exist to suggest anyone  
ever having experienced interference. We cannot however issue an official guarantee on our products'  
suitability with all pacemakers or other implanted devices due to the variety of devices available. If you  
have any doubts, or if you experience any unusual sensations while using Polar products, please consult  
your physician or contact the implanted electronic device manufacturer to determine safety in your case.  
If you are allergic to any substance that comes into contact with your skin or if you suspect an allergic  
reaction due to using the product, check the listed materials in Technical Specifications (page 53). To  
avoid any skin reaction to the heart rate sensor, wear it over a shirt, but moisten the shirt well under the  
electrodes to ensure flawless operation.  
Your safety is important to us. The shape of the s3+ stride sensor is designed to minimize the possibility  
of it getting caught in something. In any case, be careful when running with the stride sensor in  
brushwood, for example.  
The combined impact of moisture and intense abrasion may cause a black color to come off the heart rate  
surface, possibly staining light-colored clothes. If you use perfume or insect repellent on your skin, you must  
ensure that it does not come into contact with the training computer or the heart rate sensor.  
WARNING: This product and its packaging contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause  
cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm. This notice is provided in accordance with  
Technical Specifications  
Training computer  
250 mAH Li-Pol rechargeable battery  
Battery type:  
The battery is not replaceable  
up to 12 hours in continuous use with the GPS function on  
-10  
Operating time:  
Operating temperature:  
Important Information  
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Training computer materials:  
PMMA lens with hard coating in top surface, training computer body  
(ABS+GF)+TPU / (PC+ABS)+GF / (TPU+PC) +TPU / ABS+PC / Aluminium  
/ Stainless steel  
Wrist strap and buckle materials:  
Watch accuracy:  
GPS accuracy:  
Polyurethane (TPU) and stainless steel  
Better than ± 0.5 seconds / day at 25  
distance +/-2%, speed +/-2km/h  
Sample rate:  
1 sample/sec  
Accuracy of heart rate monitor:  
Heart rate measuring range:  
Current speed display range:  
± 1% or 1 bpm, whichever larger. Definition applies to stable conditions.  
15-240 bpm  
0-36 km/h or 0-22.5 mph (when measuring speed with s3+ stride  
sensor)  
0-127 km/h or 0-79 mph (when measuring speed with CS speed sensor)  
0-303 km/h or 0-188.5 mph (when measuring speed with GPS)  
Water proof IPX7  
Water resistance:  
Not suitable for bathing or swimming. Protected against wash splashes  
and raindrops. Do not immerse the training computer in water. Using the  
training computer in excessive rainfall may cause interference on GPS  
reception.  
Training computer limit values  
99  
Maximum number of files:  
Maximum time recorded to one file:  
99 h 59 min 59 s  
Maximum time recorded to files with different sensor combinations:  
Heart rate  
253 h  
52 h  
31 h  
63 h  
139 h  
28 h  
31 h  
28 h  
Heart rate + stride sensor  
Heart rate + GPS  
Heart rate + CS speed sensor  
Heart rate + CS cadence sensor  
Heart rate + stride sensor + GPS  
Heart rate + GPS+ CS speed sensor  
Heart rate + GPS + CS cadence sensor  
Heart rate + CS speed sensor + CS cadence 52 h  
sensor  
Heart rate + GPS + CS speed sensor + CS  
cadence sensor  
Stride sensor  
Stride sensor + GPS  
GPS  
GPS + CS speed sensor  
GPS + CS cadence sensor  
28 h  
63 h  
31 h  
35 h  
35 h  
31 h  
GPS+ CS speed sensor + CS cadence sensor 31 h  
CS speed sensor  
CS cadence sensor  
CS speed sensor + CS cadence sensor  
79 h  
253 h  
63 h  
The training computer stores the data in one second intervals.  
Maximum number of laps recorded in one training session:  
Maximum number of automatic laps recorded in one training session:  
99  
99  
Total distance:  
Total duration:  
Total calories:  
99999.99 km / 99999.99 mi  
9999 h 59 min 59 s  
999 999 kcal  
Total training files count:  
65535  
Heart rate sensor  
1600 h  
Battery life:  
Battery type:  
CR2025  
Battery sealing ring:  
Operating temperature:  
Connector material:  
Strap material:  
O-ring 20.0 x 0.90 Material Silicone  
-10  
ABS  
38% Polyamide, 29% Polyurethane, 20% Elastane, 13% Polyester  
54  
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Water resistance:  
30 m (Suitable for bathing and swimming).  
The Polar H3 heart rate sensor does not measure heart rate in water.  
The Polar RC3 GPS training computer applies the following patented technologies, among others:  
®
technology for fitness test.  
®
personal calorie calculation.  
Polar WebSync Software and USB Cable  
Operating system: Microsoft Windows XP/Vista/7 or Mac OS X 10.5 (Intel) or  
newer  
System Requirements:  
Internet connection  
Free USB port for the USB cable  
Water resistance  
Water resistance of Polar products is tested according to International IEC 60529 IPX7 (1m, 30min,  
20ºC). Products are divided into four different categories according to water resistance. Check the back of  
your Polar product for the water resistance category and compare it to the chart below. Please note that  
these definitions do not necessarily apply to products of other manufacturers.  
Marking on case back  
Water resistant characteristics  
Water resistant IPX7  
Not suitable for bathing or swimming. Protected  
against wash splashes and raindrops. Do not wash  
with a pressure washer.  
Water resistant  
Not suitable for swimming. Protected against wash  
splashes, sweat, raindrops etc. Do not wash with a  
pressure washer.  
Water resistant 30 m/50 m  
Water resistant 100 m  
Suitable for bathing and swimming  
Suitable for swimming and snorkeling (without air  
tanks)  
Frequently Asked Questions  
Question/Problem  
Answer/Solution  
How can I best catch satellite signals?  
Wear the training computer with its face upwards  
on your wrist. Keep your wrist stationary and raised  
above the level of your chest during the search.  
Stand still and hold the position until the training  
computer has found the satellite signals. See  
information.  
How do I ensure a good GPS signal reception in  
RC3 GPS?  
The best GPS signal reception can be reached  
when training in an open area where there are no  
obstructions for the satellite signals. Due to the  
nature of the GPS signal, for example hills, tall  
buildings, and trees may block the satellite signal.  
Rain, fog, and snow may also affect the signal  
quality. Wear the training computer with its face  
upwards on your wrist.  
Important Information  
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The training computer does not find or it takes  
long time to find the satellite signals  
Something in your surroundings may be blocking  
GPS satellite signal reception (e.g. underpasses,  
tall buildings, terrain or forested areas). Go  
outdoors and away from tall buildings and trees. In  
good conditions, acquiring satellite signals for the  
first time typically takes 30-60 seconds. Note that  
the GPS reception does not work indoors.  
The speed or distance readings are incorrect or  
irregular  
Something in your surroundings may be blocking  
GPS satellite signal reception (e.g. underpasses,  
tall buildings, terrain or forested areas). If the  
training computer cannot locate the satellite  
signals, it will not be able to calculate its location.  
Distance is measured between the last location  
before the shadow area and the first location after  
the shadow area in a straight line.  
What is the measurement accuracy of Polar RC3  
GPS?  
Polar RC3 GPS training computer measurement  
accuracy is +/- 2% for distance and +/- 2km/h for  
speed. When moving at low speeds (below 3km/h)  
accuracy of this level can sometimes cause  
relatively big errors. However, with higher speeds  
the measurement is more accurate.  
In order to improve the accuracy of the position  
calculation, Polar RC3 GPS utilizes the Wide Area  
Augmentation System (WAAS). WAAS is an  
extremely accurate navigation system in North  
America. It is widely used e.g. in aviation to  
enable precision approaches for airplanes. WAAS  
Wide-area Reference Stations, which are located  
on the earth, monitor and collect information on  
the GPS signals and send correction messages to  
the two Wide-area Master Stations. These two  
master stations then send the message forward to  
geostationary satellites, which in turn send the  
correction signals to WAAS-enabled GPS receivers,  
like Polar RC3 GPS.  
Low battery is displayed  
This notification is displayed when the training  
computer has enough charge for one hour of  
training with the GPS function on. It is  
recommended to charge the training computer  
before starting a new training session. For more  
(page 9).  
Low battery, GPS switched off is displayed  
The training computer charge is too low for  
continuing the recording of the training session  
with the GPS function on. The training computer  
sounds and backlight are automatically  
deactivated and the training computer switches  
the GPS function off. You can still use Available  
Accessories (page 6) and carry out the training  
session. A new training recording cannot be  
started before charging the training computer. For  
more information, see Training Computer Battery  
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Recording stopped, Battery Empty is displayed  
The charge is critically low. The training computer  
stops recording the training session and saves the  
training data and then goes to sleep mode. Charge  
the training computer. For more information, see  
The training computer display is blank  
The training computer battery is empty and it has  
gone to sleep mode. Charge the training computer.  
If the battery is totally drained, it may take a while  
for the charging animation to appear on the  
display. For more information on charging the  
Check heart rate sensor! is displayed  
loosened during exercise.  
are wet.  
are clean and undamaged.  
If you have done all of the above-mentioned  
actions, and the message still appears and heart  
rate measurement does not work, the battery of  
your heart rate sensor may be empty. For further  
information, see Batteries (page 51).  
Check speed sensor! is displayed  
Make sure the position and distance of the sensor  
to the magnet are appropriate. If the message still  
appears you may have exceeded 3000 riding hours  
and the battery is empty.  
Check cadence sensor! is displayed  
Make sure the position and distance of the  
cadence sensor to the crank magnet are  
appropriate. If the message still appears, you may  
have exceeded 3000 riding hours and the battery  
is empty.  
Check stride sensor! is displayed  
Make sure the sensor is correctly positioned on  
your foot. If the message still appears, the battery  
may be empty. See the user manual for Polar s3+  
stride sensor for instructions on changing the  
battery.  
The heart rate reading becomes erratic, extremely  
high or shows nil (00)  
loosened during exercise.  
apparel fit snugly.  
strap are moistened.  
electromagnetic signals can cause erratic  
readings. For further information, see  
moving away from the source of disturbance,  
slow down your speed and check your pulse  
manually. If you feel it corresponds to the high  
reading on the display, you may be experiencing  
cardiac arrhythmia. Most cases of arrhythmia are  
not serious, but consult your doctor nevertheless.  
waveform. In this case, consult your doctor.  
Important Information  
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The speed, distance or cadence readings are  
irregular  
Temporary electromagnetic interference in your  
current surroundings can cause irregular readings.  
WLAN base stations may cause interference. To  
avoid erratic reading or misbehaviors, move away  
from possible sources of disturbance.  
I do not know where I am in the menu  
There are no reactions to any buttons  
Press and hold BACK until the time of day is  
displayed.  
Reset the training computer by pressing UP,  
DOWN, BACK and LIGHT buttons simultaneously  
for two seconds until the display fills with digits.  
Press any button and set the time and date. All  
other settings are saved.  
Limited International Polar Guarantee  
force, or the consumer  
purchased this product in the USA or Canada. This limited Polar international guarantee is issued by Polar  
Electro Oy for consumers who have purchased this product in other countries.  
product will be free from defects in material or workmanship for two (2) years from the date of purchase.  
The receipt of the original purchase is your proof of purchase!  
or non-compliance with the precautions; improper maintenance, commercial use, cracked, broken or  
scratched cases/displays, armband, elastic strap and Polar apparel.  
consequential or special, arising out of, or related to the product.  
local law.  
Service Centers regardless of the country of purchase.  
Guarantee with respect to any product will be limited to countries where the product has been initially  
marketed.  
This product is compliant with Directives 93/42/EEC, 1999/5/EC and 2011/65/EU. The relevant  
Declaration of Conformity is available at www.polar.com/support [http://www.polar.com/support].  
Regulatory information is available at www.polar.com/support [http://www.polar.com/support].  
To see the RC3 GPS-specific certification and compliance information, select MENU > Settings > General  
settings, and press and hold LIGHT for two seconds.  
This crossed out wheeled bin marking shows that Polar products are electronic devices and are in the  
scope of Directive 2012/19/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on waste electrical and  
electronic equipment (WEEE) and batteries and accumulators used in products are in the scope of  
Directive 2006/66/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 6 September 2006 on batteries  
and accumulators and waste batteries and accumulators. These products and batteries/accumulators  
inside Polar products should thus be disposed of separately in EU countries. Polar encourages you to  
minimize possible effects of waste on the environment and human health also outside the European Union  
58  
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ENGLISH  
by following local waste disposal regulations and, where possible, utilize separate collection of electronic  
devices for products, and battery and accumulator collection for batteries and accumulators.  
This marking shows that the product is protected against electric shocks.  
Polar Electro Oy is a ISO 9001:2008 certified company.  
©
2013 Polar Electro Oy, FI-90440 KEMPELE, Finland. All rights reserved. No part of this manual may  
be used or reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written permission of Polar Electro Oy.  
The names and logos in this user manual or in the package of this product are trademarks of Polar Electro  
®
Oy. The names and logos marked with a symbol in this user manual or in the package of this product are  
registered trademarks of Polar Electro Oy. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation and  
Mac OS is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.  
Disclaimer  
change without prior notice, due to the manufacturer  
with respect to the products described herein.  
indirect or incidental, consequential or special, arising out of, or related to the use of this material or the  
products described herein.  
This product is covered by the following patent documents: FI 111514B, DE19781642T1, GB2326240,  
HK1016857, US6277080, US20070082789, EP1795128, US20090278734, EP2116862, FI114202,  
US6537227, EP1147790, HK1040065, FI115289, EP1127544, US6540686, HK1041188, FI  
110303, US6104947, EP0748185, JP3831410, FI20105796, US20120010478, EP2407217,  
EP08879081.1, US13/139541, WO2010072883, US6584344, US2011021419, EP2280770. Other  
patents pending.  
Manufactured by:  
Polar Electro Oy  
Professorintie 5  
FI-90440 KEMPELE  
Tel +358 8 5202 100  
Fax +358 8 5202 300  
www.polar.com [http://www.polar.com]  
07/2013  
Important Information  
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INDEX  
Basic settings .................................................. 12  
Batteries ....................................................... 51  
Battery operating time .......................................... 9  
Battery status .................................................. 10  
Bike settings ................................................... 30  
Button functions ............................................ 7, 21  
Buttons do not react ............................................ 58  
User information settings ...................................... 32  
Using a new accessory ......................................... 38  
Watch face ..................................................... 33  
Watch settings ................................................. 33  
Water resistance ............................................... 55  
Week summaries ............................................... 27  
Zonelock ........................................................ 21  
ZoneOptimizer .......................................... 16, 16, 43  
Cadence sensor pairing ........................................ 39  
Calibration ..................................................... 39  
Calibration by running ......................................... 40  
Calibration manually ........................................... 40  
Care instructions ............................................... 50  
Charging ........................................................ 9  
Cycling settings ................................................ 29  
Delete files ..................................................... 26  
Endurance program ............................................ 48  
Erratic readings ................................................ 57  
Fitness Level Classes for men .................................. 36  
Fitness Level Classes for women ............................... 36  
General settings ................................................ 32  
Heart rate sensor ........................................... 13, 38  
Heart rate settings ............................................. 31  
HRmax ........................................................... 45  
Interference .................................................... 52  
Measure wheel size ............................................. 30  
Menu ............................................................ 7  
Minimizing risks ................................................ 53  
Night mode ..................................................... 21  
On-the-fly calibration .......................................... 40  
Other sport settings ............................................ 31  
OwnIndex ....................................................... 35  
Pause recording ................................................ 22  
Precautions ..................................................... 52  
Quick menu ..................................................... 33  
Quick menu in Pre-training mode .............................. 33  
Quick menu in Time mode ...................................... 33  
Quick menu in Training mode .................................. 33  
Reset totals .................................................... 27  
Reset week summaries ......................................... 27  
Running Cadence .............................................. 45  
Running Index .................................................. 46  
Running settings ............................................... 29  
Service ......................................................... 51  
Set heart rate view ............................................. 31  
Set zone lock ................................................... 31  
Set ZoneOptimizer .............................................. 31  
Speed sensor pairing ........................................... 38  
Sport profile settings ........................................... 29  
Sport Zones ..................................................... 42  
Start training ................................................... 13  
Stop recording .................................................. 22  
Stride length ................................................... 45  
Stride sensor pairing ........................................... 39  
Time 1 .......................................................... 33  
Training load ................................................... 48  
Transfer data ................................................... 28  
60  
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