What is your resting heart rate (RHR)? how and when do you measure it?

Are you using a treadmill??  Before I got a HRM I was only able to run 8-15minutes, but I was running at an 8min/mil pace.  I couldnt imagine going much slower than I was, I felt like it would be useless, like i was not even working out.

I stuck with it though, and with the help of a treadmill keeping me at that target pace and HR, you become much more comfortable running at slow speeds.  First time I tried longer range running with my HRM I doubled my 'comfortable' running distance.  I was once running a mile, at an 8min pace, now I run 2.5miles at a 10min pace.

So from my experience (everyones diff obviously), just stick with it, the speeds may seem awkward at first if your used to running faster, but you will burn way more calories and feel a whole lot better if you can just set that treadmill and forget about it.

just my 2 cents.  I am new to endurance racing and had never monitored my hr before.  However, I was scared to death when I realized it stayed between 175-195 bpm during almost all of my runs and bikes.  My brother is a cardiologist and I called him in a panic.  I am not suggesting this advice is for everyone - but his advise was do not worry about it if you are breathing ok and having no pain or discomfort.  He even laughed and said he gets this question alot.  I only monitor my rate now to not overexert at the start of my runs.  If I stayed at 70% of my max HR I would walk all of my triathalons.

I love RPE, especially for fit or experienced runners.  You may get better results because it makes you more present during your workouts.  Another great thing is the workout log.  Log your speed, distance, intensity (RPE and Hr), and how it felt to you.  Journals will help you to truly see what kinds of things you are doing to your body and why, which will help you weed out any problems.  Good Luck!