BUT- There is a definite difference between a HR monitor and an instrument panel. HR monitors only cover one aspect of riding and a panel covers many different operations on a car, plane, four wheeler, etc.
I got my HR monitor while riding my last endurance horse, and never really got around to putting it on Shenn. Kept saying I would, but it never happened. As I look back, I am kinda glad I never bothered, because I did learn how to read my horse (I have always had my monitor at VC's ). But, I still wonder if I should put it on him, just to give me a quicker warning if something DOES go wrong. Shenn sure does know how to act like he can do anything when his mind is set on it and I don't know how much pain would show up until it was too late- but it probably would in HR while out on the trail before he gave in. My main concern for not putting the HR monitor on him now is that I will probably freak out and worry too much- that is what I did with my last horse- contributed to my getting turtle many times on a horse that could have gone MUCH faster and allowed people to have an award ceremony at a decent hour. ;o)
I do think that newer people should at least work with a monitor some, but not always. Transitioning back and forth will help you find out how to properly read your horse's HR, which is a definite aspect of endurance since you must pulse down at VC's. Transitioning also helps you keep from relying on the monitor, for as has been said, it only tells you ONE aspect of your horse, who also breathes, pees, poops, drinks, etc. Also, riding with experienced friends is very helpful.
Even if you decide not to buy a monitor for riding, I would make the investment for vet checks- it has been invaluable to me to have the instant readout- especially since Shenn has a wierd heartbeat that inexperienced people cannot follow well with a stethescope. It has kept me from having to wait as long at PR checks.
