Can anyone recommend a GOOD heart rate monitor that will also calculate calories burned and preferrably count steps too? Though the step counting is last preference. I want something as accurate as possible but I can't afford a polar I am hoping to get some interval training in at some point.

I bought a 30 day shred video and a dancing video. I also plan to use my elliptical and get outside til it snows me in. So I want to try to monitor these activities.

I'm also interested in this! The machines at the gym don't let you put in your height, so I have trouble believing they're accurate.

I just read the article in the sticky, "Putting Very Little Weight in Calorie Counting Methods" and so I've decided not to buy a HRM and also just leave the counting calories burned. It is now seeming very pointless. I must say too that I feel a little disheartened by these realities.

But now I have no idea how much I should try to exercise.

I use the polar F11 and I love it! I don't really use it to count calories burned, cuz none of them are actually accurate...this is true. I use it to monitor my heartrate, time my intervals, and monitor my progress. The heartrate function is invaluable to me as I run...it's cool to see how my heartrate has reduced substantially over the course of 5 weeks...so I know when to step up my intensity.

Just something to consider...

I own a Polar F6. Have used it off and on. More off than on recently.
I don't think it's really necessary. Just exercise and don't worry about the numbers

It's not a heart rate monitor, but if you want to know how many calories you're burning you can go with a BodyBugg or similar products like Go Wear Fit. They are the most accurate way outside a lab to get your calorie burn. But they are not cheap. And they ate meant to be worn all the time for the best accuracy. I love my bugg!