Heart rate monitor recommendations please

[SofaKingOld]

I finished graduated from C25K in November and have started B210K now. I've discovered I enjoy running and buying lots of new gear. My new years resolution is to complete a half marathon in September so although technically I don't need a heart rate monitor I think it will help with my training.

I have an iphone that I use to map my runs. I suppose my options are to either get something that's compatible with my iphone or have another device.

I've had a bit of a trawl of the internet - but to be honest that has just confused me even more!!

The advice of you serious runners would be very much appreciated before I part with my hard earned cash.

The Nike +GPS app is good for motivation

I got this one for Xmas. It's great - easy to use, and not too bulky .

You can upload the results to your PC, or to the web - not just heart rate, but distance, time, pace, elevation, all split by kilometre or mile. You can also map your run onto Google Earth if you want.

I am not a man btw, but for some reason the womens' version was considerably pricier.

Thanks for your recommendations. I think the Garmin will do what I need it to do and looks quite simple.

Think if I got one with all the bells and whistles it would just confuse me.

I have a polar HRM and have been please with that and the service, when it went back for its last battery change the company replaced one of the knobs that had come off. I return to the factory as others can't garuntee water resistance after battery change

I went to my local running shop to go have a chat with them. I've ended up with the entry level Polar HRM as it was only £44 and included the chest strap.

I used it for a run and it was a lot more comfortable to wear than I thought it would be.

I'll see how I get on with it and can always upgrade if I want something a bit more fancy.

Thanks for your recommendations.