









Polar Vantage M3
You want something smart but sporty, compact but powerful, stylish but strong. You want to train harder but recover faster; sleep better but explore more. You want pro-level sports tracking but everyday lifestyle features. You want a Polar Vantage M3: the multi-sport watch for multi-sport athletes.
Polar Grit X2 Pro Titan
Polar Grit X2 Pro Titan is a rough and rugged outdoor sports watch crafted for adventure with sapphire glass AMOLED display in titanium casing, and a hi-tech toolkit of navigation and performance features for exploring the wonders of the world, and the body.
Polar Grit X2 Pro
Polar Grit X2 Pro is a rough and rugged outdoor sports watch crafted for adventure with sapphire crystal glass AMOLED display, and a hi-tech toolkit of navigation and performance features for exploring the wonders of the world, and the body.
Polar Grit X2
Polar Grit X2 is a compact, robust outdoor watch crafted for big adventures and everyday performance. With advanced training tools, sapphire glass AMOLED display, and precision navigation with full-color maps, itâs built for life on and off the trails.
Polar Vantage V3
An ensemble of biosensing instruments, AMOLED display, dual-frequency GPS, maps, and the most comprehensive suite of training and recovery tools on the market. The stage is set, and the Polar Vantage V3 smart sports watch is ready to put in the performance of a lifetime.
Polar Ignite 3
Polar Ignite 3 is a stylish fitness & wellness watch that helps you live a more energized life. It tracks your sleep, activity, and heart rate to provide guidance thatâs tailored to your body and lifestyle.
Polar Ignite 3 Braided Yarn
Polar Ignite 3 Braided Yarn is a stylish fitness & wellness watch that helps you live a more energized life. It tracks your sleep, activity, and heart rate to provide guidance thatâs tailored to your body and lifestyle and comes with a soft, light, and extremely comfortable woven fiber wristband.
Polar Pacer Pro
Polar Pacer Pro is an ultra-light, new-generation sports watch with integrated barometer that equips athletes with advanced tools to improve running economy, training sessions, and sports performance.
Polar Pacer
Sport is play â why complicate it? Polar Pacer is a no-nonsense sports watch that gives new athletes all the essentials, plus the specialized training tools they need to train better.
Polar Vantage V2
A powerful convergence of minimalist design, innovative technology, and intelligent training and recovery tools makes the Polar Vantage V2 a formidable sports watch.
Polar Grit X Pro
Built for military-level durability with sapphire glass and ultra-long battery, equipping you with new navigation tools, always-on outdoor features and Polar's ultimate training solutions.
Polar Vantage M2
Designed for function, the Polar Vantage M2 works as hard as you do. Our industry-leading technology is here to help you reach your goals and come back stronger. For that athlete attitude.
Polar Ignite 2
A fitness watch thatâs sleek, simple and smart? Polar Ignite 2 is a true triple threat. Versatile and full of great features, itâs the perfect companion for any sport and any lifestyle.
Polar Ignite
A waterproof fitness watch with advanced wrist-based heart rate and integrated GPS, Polar Ignite offers you a full view of your day and guides you towards a more balanced life.
Polar Unite
A beautifully simple watch with personalized daily workout guidance, 24/7 heart rate and activity tracking, plus automatic sleep and recovery applications.
Polar Vantage V
Polar Vantage M
An all-round multisport & running GPS watch for anyone who loves setting new records. Polar Vantage M is a slim, lightweight training companion that gives you all the data you need to improve your performance.
Polar Grit X
An outdoor multisport watch with rugged yet lightweight design, ultra-long battery life and military-standard durability for anyone who prefers the trails over the roads.
Polar M430
A GPS running watch with wrist-based heart rate, advanced running features and Polar Running Program, Polar M430 is a top-level watch for runners who want more.
Polar Verity Sense
When freedom of movement is important to you, Polar Verity Sense is your go-to choice for any sport.
Polar H10
Widely regarded as the gold standard in wireless heart rate monitoring, this is the most accurate sensor in Polarâs history.
Polar H9
A reliable, high-quality heart rate chest strap for all your everyday sports with BluetoothÂź and ANT+ connectivity. Get connected and get going.
Polar OH1+
Polar OH1+ is an optical heart rate monitor that combines versatility, comfort and simplicity. You can use it both as a standalone device and pair it with various fitness apps, sports watches and smart watches, thanks to BluetoothÂź and ANT+ connectivity.
POLAR Loop
POLAR Loop is a screen-free, subscription-free fitness band that helps you sleep better, recover smarter, and stay activeâwithout distractions.
Wristbands
Personalize any watch for any style and any need.
Straps
Replace or upgrade your Polar Sensor chest straps or arm bands.
Power & Cables
For charging your products and data transfer.
Mounts & Adapters
Adapt your product for any situation.
[menu_title:HOVER_PANEL_WHO_WE_ARE]
[menu_copy:HOVER_PANEL_WHO_WE_ARE]
[menu_title:HOVER_PANEL_SCIENCE]
[menu_copy:HOVER_PANEL_SCIENCE]
Polar Grit X Outdoor Series
Made for outdoor sports and built to handle any environment nature can throw at you, Grit X watches are designed to help you explore the world and gear up for adventure.
Polar Vantage Performance Series
Our flagship series is tailored for high-performance and endurance sports and training. Every aspect of our Vantage watches are designed with one particular person in mind â the athlete.
Polar Pacer Multisport Series
The Pacer Series gives athletes all the essentials such as accurate GPS and precise heart rate tracking, plus the specialized training, sleep, and recovery tools they need to train better.
Polar Ignite Fitness & Wellness Series
Sleek, simple, and smart â Ignite watches are the perfect partner for any fitness goals and any lifestyle.
Author(s): Felix McIntyre
So much of the runner's journey is painted as a solo quest, a personal battle fought within the confines of your own mind. But what if that's only half the story? What if every step you take, every hill you climb, and every finish line you cross is a triumph shared with an invisible crew that makes it all possible?
Picture this: itâs mile 22 of a marathon. The crowd has thinned, the roar has quieted, and it's just you and the road. Every step is a deliberate act of will. Youâre lost in the rhythm, deep in your thoughtsârecalling past training runs, mentally checking off the miles, and battling the little voice that tells you to slow down (or even, to stop). It's the quintessential image of the runner: a lone warrior pushing through a deeply personal, internal battle. And perhaps so much of your running journey feels this wayâjust you, your shoes, and the pavement.
But hereâs the beautiful paradox: while the act of running may be solitary, the journey of a runner is anything but. Behind every runnerâwhether theyâre a seasoned ultra-marathoner or chasing a new 5K personal bestâthere is an invisible crew. These aren't just spectators; they're the people who join you on that frigid Saturday morning long run, who listen to you recount every split and blister, and who have a post-run meal ready for you. Theyâre your partners, friends, and family who make it all possible.
I've had the privilege of interviewing many athletes during my time writing for Polar, and I'm always struck by the same thing: every single person has an incredible support team behind them. One of the stories that has stayed with me is that of ultra-trail runner Vincent Viet, speaking about his wife, Charlotte, and their children, who traveled from France to California with him in 2022 to support him in the Western States 100âa mere five weeks after their youngest child was born. Or sub-three-hour marathon runner Tim De Groote speaking with honesty about how his close friends and family are extraordinarily supportive of his limited schedule, which is dominated by training, travelling to marathons and working as an international flight attendant. Even ultrarunner star Karel Sabbe admits that much of his success in setting FKTs comes down to his incredible crew.
All the athletes I have spoken to have spoken about their partners who put up with crazy training schedules, their friends who are always ready with an encouraging text, and their family who have been on this incredible journey with them every step of the way. So, let's take a moment to celebrate these unsung heroes who make up your support team and often your unpaid crew at competitive eventsâbecause it's important to remember that while you may cross the finish line alone, you never truly run alone.
Your crew is as unique as your running journey, and it comes in countless shapes and sizes. Your support system isn't defined by its size or its composition, but by the love and dedication within it. Whether your crew is a huge family cheering squad, one incredibly understanding partner, or a single loyal running buddy, that is your team, and their contribution is invaluable. Not everyone will have support from all these areas of their life, so let's celebrate the particular people who fuel our miles.
For some, their support crew is their partner, the behind-the-scenes star of daily life. They're the ones who understand when the alarm clock is set for an ungodly hour, the endless conversations about splits and chafing, and the laundry pile of sweaty gear. Their understanding of your passion is profound, even when it demands missed dinners or weekend plans. They provide the logistical support that's so crucial for maintaining a life balanceâfrom ensuring there's fuel in the fridge to managing childcare during long runs or taking on extra chores. A supportive partner is an emotional anchor, the first to celebrate a personal best and the one who offers a steady perspective after a tough race, reminding you of your strength beyond the clock.
For others, there's your family, the roots of your motivation. This might be a parent who drove you to your first track meet or a sibling who cheered you on from the sidelines. Your children, with their innocent questions and handmade signs, inspire you in ways they'll never know. They adjust to your schedule and celebrate your successes with an enthusiasm that makes every mile worth it.
Finally, it could be your friends who form the community of your miles. Your running buddies are in the trenches with you, sharing the camaraderie, the pain, and the joy of every mile. They provide accountability and a shared language that non-runners may struggle to understand. Your non-running friends are just as vital; they listen to your endless stories, show up to cheer you on, and celebrate your wins with unwavering belief, even if they don't fully get the obsession. They are all part of the invaluable crew that makes your solo runs possible.
For every runner, race day is the pinnacle, but itâs the day your everyday supporters undergo a powerful transformation. They cease to be just friends and family and become a vital, active, and often indispensable 'crew.' And their role isn't always about cheering and will greatly depend on what type of race you are doing and thus, what specific type of support you need.
For the majority of us tackling major marathons, seeing loved ones along the course is one of the biggest boosts imaginableâitâs not just motivation; it's a goal within the race itself. You spend the final training weeks mapping out strategic cheer zones, and that anticipation fuels your miles. It might be hard for you to spot your supporters in a wall of spectators, but that's part of the fun! When you finally connect eyes and hear your name over the roar of the crowd, it offers a powerful mini-recharge that gets you to the next planned meeting spot.
The support begins even before the start gun. From the moment you wake up, your support system is at work, helping you with any pre-race rituals and on-the-day logistics. They are the calming presence, the ones who give the last-minute pep talk and handle the practicalities of getting you to the start line. This often means partners or family navigating an unfamiliar town, booking accommodation, and ensuring all your pre-race needs are met, turning a tense event into a shared adventure.
Even when not physically present, your remote crew is there, tracking your every step. Family and friends are glued to screens, following live trackers and refreshing split times. The knowledge that theyâre watching, that youâre not forgotten, is a powerful silent promise when youâre out on the course.
Enjoying this article? Subscribe to Polar Journal and get notified when a new Polar Journal issue is out.
For those tackling ultra-races, the role of your supporters expands to encompass all of the above plus providing essential assistance. Here, your loved ones transform into an expert ultra-crew, and their function is far more hands-on than shouts of support.
At aid stations, your crew becomes your lifeline. You might expect them to have a gel ready, take away some shedding clothing, or simply offer encouragement. However, this is a big responsibility for your supporters, and they often worry: âWhat if I don't get them that gel? Do I ruin their race?â Itâs important to reassure them that their presence alone is the biggest help.
In reality, your crew knows precisely what food, drink, and gear you need. They can quickly assess your state, offer encouragement, change your socks, refill your bottles, and even provide a much-needed hug or a stern word of motivation when you're ready to quit. This is why you can't just 'rent' a crew for a big event. They need to know you intimatelyâyour quirks, your preferred foods, your mental triggers, your race plan, and when to deviate from it. They anticipate needs before they're even voiced, understanding the unspoken language of a fatigued runner. They're also logistical masters, managing drop bags, navigating complex course logistics, and often sacrificing their own comfort for hours, sometimes days, to support you.
The final moments of the race are a culmination of shared effort and belief. The embrace, the tears, the collective relief and joy. This finish line is not just for you, the runner; itâs for the entire crew who helped you get there. Their job doesnât end there, though. They provide crucial post-racecare, with warm clothes, food, and a listening ear, gently guiding you through the post-race haze with love and care. So, remember, organize a good post-race party for them, too.
An ensemble of biosensing instruments, AMOLED display, dual-frequency GPS, maps, and the most comprehensive suite of training and recovery tools on the market. The stage is set, and the Polar Vantage V3 smart sports watch is ready to put in the performance of a lifetime.
The support you receive, whether it's a friend sharing a few miles or a partner managing your gear at an aid station, goes so much deeper than just getting you through a run. It's about feeling seen, loved, and understood in a pursuit that can sometimes feel isolating. While a runner's journey is often an internal one, the presence of your 'invisible crew' transforms a solitary goal into a shared adventure, strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories that go far beyond the finish line.
Knowing you have this crew behind you can be a powerful source of motivation and resilience. Their belief in you becomes your own, an inner voice that pushes you through the tough training days, the moments of doubt, and the darkest miles of that ultra-race. You're not just running on your own grit; you're running on their faith in you. This external validation fuels your internal strength, helping you to find a deeper purpose in every step. Itâs the difference between pushing through and giving up. It's the silent promise that youâre not alone in your struggle, and that someone is waiting to celebrate with you, no matter what happens.
On a side note, that powerful support system can sometimes create an unintended pressure cooker. For many experienced runners, the idea of disappointing their supporters can be a significant source of stress while racing. After all the sacrifices your partner made, the hours your crew put in, and the travel costs your family incurred, the last thing you want is to fall short of your goal, especially in front of them.
Itâs crucial to be mindful of this delicate balance. Your crewâs love and dedication should feel like fuel, not a weight. If you find the thought of letting them down overwhelming you while in a race, take a moment to reframe the meaning of their support. They are there because they love you, not because they are invested solely in your finishing time or podium spot. Their primary success is simply seeing you pursue your passion and knowing you are safe.
Before your next event, discuss this with your key supporters. Make it clear that their presence is the true gift, and that the best way they can support you is by reaffirming your self-worth, regardless of the outcome. When you see them on the course, let their cheers be a reminder of the shared journey and the love that transcends the clock. By communicating openly, you can ensure that your invisible crew remains the powerful source of strength itâs meant to be, rather than becoming an added layer of race-day pressure.
POLAR Loop is a screen-free, subscription-free fitness band that helps you sleep better, recover smarter, and stay activeâwithout distractions.
Finally, while we're on the topic of communication, remember itâs just as important to acknowledge their profound gift of commitment. Their impact on a runner's life is immeasurableâthey are the true backbone of your success, the quiet force that makes your solo triumphs possible. So, how can we give back and show our gratitude? By being intentional about supporting the people who support us. A little planning can make all the difference, making things easier for both you and your partner.
First, write out your schedule in as much detail as possible. This isnât just about listing your runs; itâs about providing a clear roadmap. Include details like pick-up and drop-off times, specific routes, and even share your location so your crew is never left guessing. The more specific you are, the less likely you are to end up in a fight about a miscommunication.
Second, clearly lay out what exactly would make your day good. Most partners, friends and family members genuinely want to be supportive and are thrilled for your success, but they often don't know what you need. Are you hoping for some quiet time to recover after a long race, or would you rather celebrate with the whole family at the beach? Do you need a sitter so you can get a nap in, or would a solo drive home with a stop for coffee or ice cream be the perfect way to unwind? You may not realize that all you have to do is ask for what you want. By communicating your needs, you empower your support crew to help you in the most meaningful way possible. And remember, if you expect this level of support, you must also extend the same courtesy to them when they're pursuing their own goals.
Yes, the truth is, while running is a solitary act, a runnerâs spirit is always surrounded. Every stride is backed by a network of love and dedication, a testament to the power of human connection. The runner you see pushing through a tough mile is never truly aloneâtheir invisible crew is always with them.
So, as you head out for your next run, take a moment to reflect on your own journey. Who makes up your invisible crew? How do you show them your gratitude for their unwavering support? Remember that the victory isn't just yours. It belongs to every single person who was part of the journeyâyour partner, your friends, your family, your running buddies. They are your true crew, whose love and support made every solitary stride possible. Their cheers, their sacrifices, and their belief in you are the reason you made it to the finish line, heart full and spirit soaring.
Success! ##