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Heart rate monitors are a great way to track your heart rate during exercise. They’re especially helpful if you’re trying to stay in a certain heart rate zone or if you’re trying to measure your progress over time.

There are two main types of heart rate monitors: chest straps and wristbands. Chest straps are more accurate but they can be uncomfortable to wear. Wristbands are more comfortable but they’re not as accurate as chest straps.

If you’re looking for the most accurate heart rate monitor, a chest strap is the best option. However, if you’re looking for a more comfortable option, a wristband is a good choice.

Here are some of the best heart rate monitors on the market:

  • Garmin HRM-Pro Plus
  • Polar H10
  • Wahoo TICKR X
  • Magene H64
  • iGPSPORT HR40

Chest straps

Chest straps are the most accurate type of heart rate monitor. They work by measuring the electrical impulses that your heart produces. Chest straps are typically worn around your chest, just below your breasts.

Chest straps are more accurate than wristbands because they don’t have to contend with movement. This makes them a good choice for activities like running, cycling, and swimming.

However, chest straps can be uncomfortable to wear. They can also be difficult to put on and take off.

Wristbands

Wristbands are a more comfortable type of heart rate monitor. They work by measuring the blood flow in your wrist. Wristbands are typically worn on your wrist, just below your watch.

Wristbands are less accurate than chest straps because they can be affected by movement. This makes them less suitable for activities like running, cycling, and swimming.

However, wristbands are more comfortable to wear than chest straps. They’re also easier to put on and take off.

Which type of heart rate monitor is right for you?

The best type of heart rate monitor for you depends on your needs. If you’re looking for the most accurate heart rate monitor, a chest strap is the best option. However, if you’re looking for a more comfortable option, a wristband is a good choice.

Here’s a table to help you decide which type of heart rate monitor is right for you:































Feature Chest strap Wristband
Accuracy High Low
Comfort Low High
Ease of use Low High
Cost $50-$150 $20-$100

Heart rate monitor features

Heart rate monitors can come with a variety of features. Some of the most common features include:

  • Heart rate zones: Heart rate monitors can display your heart rate in different zones. This can help you stay in a certain heart rate zone or track your progress over time.
  • Calories burned: Heart rate monitors can estimate the number of calories you burn during exercise. This can be helpful for weight loss or fitness tracking.
  • Distance traveled: Heart rate monitors can track the distance you travel during exercise. This can be helpful for running, cycling, or swimming.
  • GPS tracking: Heart rate monitors with GPS can track your location and speed during exercise. This can be helpful for mapping your workouts or tracking your progress over time.
  • Music player: Heart rate monitors with music players can allow you to listen to music while you exercise. This can help you stay motivated and make your workouts more enjoyable.

How to use a heart rate monitor

Using a heart rate monitor is easy. Simply wear the heart rate monitor during your workout and it will automatically track your heart rate. Some heart rate monitors require you to connect them to a smartphone or other device to view your data.

Here are some tips for using a heart rate monitor:

  • Moisten the sensors on the heart rate monitor before you put it on.
  • Wear the heart rate monitor snugly but not too tightly.
  • Make sure the heart rate monitor is positioned in the correct location. For chest straps, this is just below your breasts. For wristbands, this is just below your watch.
  • Start your workout and the heart rate monitor will automatically start tracking your heart rate.

Troubleshooting heart rate monitor problems

If you’re having trouble with your heart rate monitor, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

  • Make sure the heart rate monitor is turned on.
  • Make sure the batteries in the heart rate monitor are fresh.
  • Make sure the sensors on the heart rate monitor are clean.
  • Make sure the heart rate monitor is positioned in the correct location.
  • Restart the heart rate monitor.

If you’re still having trouble with your heart rate monitor, you can contact the manufacturer for help.

Heart rate monitor safety

Heart rate monitors are safe for most people to use. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

  • If you have a pacemaker or other implanted medical device, talk to your doctor before using a heart rate monitor.
  • If you have any heart conditions, talk to your doctor before using a heart rate monitor.
  • If you experience any chest pain or discomfort while using a heart rate monitor, stop using it and talk to your doctor.

Heart rate monitors can be a great way to track your heart rate during exercise. They can help you stay in a certain heart rate zone or measure your progress over time. If you’re looking for a way to improve your fitness, a heart rate monitor is a great option.