It seems like there are a few HRMs to choose from out there. Nike, Polar, Timex to name a few, so I decided to try to find some reviews and such on what the best HRM might be for a beginner. I figured Polar would be the way to go because it is what they specialize in and I was right. There is quite a load of information on the net about HRMs and from the research I did I think the best investment would be the Polar S625X. It is a bit on the high price side (suggested retial price is $369.95), but it has a number of features that would be very beneficial. First it covers all teh aspects of running including my speed and distance without using a GPS system. Secondly though it can kill two birds with one stone. I can purchase optional accessories to outfit my bike to work with this watch. So the watch has me covered on both fronts. It aslo comes with software to install on your computer and synch your watch to this software to analyze the data and chart out my strengths and weaknesses to better focus my training. I am thinking this is the watch for me to invest in, the last step though is to actually head to a sports store and try it on and see if it is comfortable and reall what I am looking for.