Wrist-based heart rate monitor. Heart rate monitor on hand: principle of operation, advantages and weaknesses. Frequently asked questions about sports bracelets

An arm heart rate monitor is a medical device designed to monitor heart activity during sports or other activities. physical activity. It is also used by those people who, due to violations of the activity of the heart, are forced to constantly monitor its condition.

What is a heart rate monitor and what is it for?

There are two types of heart rate monitors on the arm: without a chest strap, which read the pulse from the finger and with a chest strap in which the sensor is located. The first type of heart rate monitors is highly functional, so you should carefully study all the available functions and choose a device exclusively with those that will be used.

Depending on the number of functions, there are three categories of heart rate monitors:

The simplest models include four functions: a clock, an alarm clock, a timer, and heart control itself.

Advanced models also have an energy consumption lock and a fat burn counter.

The most expensive heart rate monitors can be connected to a PC and have the function of a detailed analysis of the state of the body. Based on this data, the heart rate monitor then creates an individual training program.

As a rule, medical heart rate monitors on the arm belong to the first category.

Pedometer - what is it for?

A pedometer, like a hand-held heart rate monitor, is used by people involved in sports. This device will be a great addition to the heart rate monitor and will help you mark your workouts in more detail. The pedometer measures the number of steps taken.

It can also convert steps to kilometers and calculate how many kilocalories have been spent. Experts say that the recommended amount per day is 10,000 steps. At the same time, the average person loses about 400 kilocalories.

For the convenience of athletes, pedometers and heart rate monitors are equipped with a variety of additional functions, such as:

Radio;
Player;
Clock, stopwatch and timer;
Calculation of steps depending on the type of walking and running.;
Calculation of the number of meters overcome in the pool;
Calculation of cadence;
Built-in memory.

How to choose a heart rate monitor?

First of all, you need to pay attention to the location of the sensor, as it directly affects the accuracy of its measurements.

Below are several ways to position the sensor:

Sensor built into the wrist heart rate monitor. This arrangement, although the most convenient, but brings bad results. The data obtained as a result of measurements of such a sensor is extremely inaccurate.
A sensor that is attached to a finger or earlobe. The result is also extremely inaccurate information, in addition, the sensor interferes during training and can easily be lost.
Wireless sensor, which is attached with a strap on the chest. Such a device will provide the most accurate data.

When choosing a hand-held heart rate monitor for both running and other sports, you should pay attention not to the price, but to the manufacturer. There are companies that have been manufacturing these devices for quite a long time and can afford to offer a really high-quality copy for a small price.

You should also pay attention to the type of heart rate monitor. There are models for running, for cycling, as well as hand-held heart rate monitors for skiers. The complete set of all heart rate monitors is the same: a bracelet and a sensor.

Also, when choosing a heart rate monitor, it is important to consider the following features:

Working hours.

If the model is not fancy and belongs to the first / second category, then it will consume about the same amount of energy from the battery as a wrist watch. Otherwise (if GPS and other similar functions are available), the charge will last for a maximum of 20 hours.

Sensor signal encoding.

An unencoded signal is transmitted with interference, an encoded signal is transmitted without. Depending on the installed one or another sensor, the price of the heart rate monitor will also fluctuate.

Depending on the functionality, reliability and accuracy of the measurement, as well as how much the heart rate monitor costs per arm, the rating of the heart rate monitors per arm is compiled below.

Top five

Beurer PM18.

The country of origin is Germany. This model is a representative of the budget class. It has a built-in sensor that measures the pulse through a finger attached to the display. This copy is two in one. It not only measures the pulse, but also counts the steps, measures the speed of movement. Also equipped with a stopwatch, alarm clock and timer. Cost: about $100.

Garmin Forerunner 610 HRM.

Country of manufacture - Taiwan. This instance is for running heart rate monitors. The gadget is waterproof. The sensor is located on the chest, attached with a belt. Cost: about $300.

Polar FT4.

Country of manufacture - Finland. There is nothing superfluous in this model: a pulse meter, calories burned, as well as a clock and a calendar. Changes in the state of the body are displayed on the display in graphical form. Waterproof, there is a screen backlight and a speaker. Cost: about $100.

Nike Fuel Band.

Functions: LED screen, battery capacity indicator, Bluetooth 4.0, accelerometer, calorie burn meter. Moisture resistant, shockproof. Cost: about $130.

Torneo H-102.

Country of manufacture - China. The sensor of this heart rate monitor is located on the chest, attached with a belt. There is a screen backlight, speaker, built-in memory. It has the function of counting the training time and expended kilocalories. Built-in clock, alarm clock and stopwatch. Cost: about $125.

The pulse displays the heart rate and, depending on the physical and emotional state of the body, reflects the level physical training. An interesting fact is that the pulse can determine at what point in sleep a person has a dream. At the same time, the pulse rate will show whether a person is dreaming of something calm, joyful or terrifying.

Of course, you can make a heart rate monitor with your own hands - assemble hardware and program it, besides, the Internet is full of ready-made circuits for making a heart rate monitor with your own hands. But it will take quite a long time.

Therefore, it is much easier to buy a ready-made device. At the same time, it is important to follow the recommendations listed above and pay attention primarily to the reputation of the manufacturer, and not to the offered price.

For proven heart rate monitors can last 3-5 years, and products from an unknown manufacturer will fail in a year.

Cardio training from A to Z, video

In conclusion, we can say that it does not matter at all what device a person uses to measure the pulse, number of steps or calories burned. The very fact of going in for sports is much more important, because sport is life.

And such gadgets as a heart rate monitor or a pedometer only help to achieve a better result in a shorter period of time. Therefore, the more accurate the device is, the greater results can be achieved, and if you already decide to buy a heart rate monitor, you should take the purchase seriously and choose a really worthy model.

Otherwise, the device will harm, not help, displaying data that does not correspond to reality.

At first glance, wrist heart rate monitors seem to many to be the best option for a portable heart rate monitor - they are compact and easy to use.

At the same time, such a device, as the manufacturers promise, will allow you to accurately measure the pulse. And this, in turn, will help control the work of the heart, maintain and strengthen its health.

Consider the device of this type of heart rate monitor, its advantages and disadvantages, and the basic selection rules.

The heart rate monitor allows you to monitor your heart rate. This is necessary in order to to keep the pulse in a certain range of values- for example, from 130 to 160 beats per minute. Also, these devices can be used for purely diagnostic purposes - in the event that you need to monitor your heart rate throughout the day.

Heart rate monitors are used:

athletes;
people who want to lose weight;
people with heart disease.

Athletes keep their pulse in a certain range of values, to be most efficient: if it is below a certain minimum, this means that the load is not large enough, and it needs to be increased so that the body receives good workout. If the heart rate has exceeded the maximum, the athlete is working too hard.

Anyone involved in any sport to lose extra pounds, during classes, they must also adhere to certain heart rate values (the corridor of values \u200b\u200bfor each student is calculated individually according to a special formula, taking into account age and weight).

If the heart rate is too low, the body does not get enough work to burn a significant amount of fat, but if it rises too high, the body switches from fat to other sources of energy.

Also a medical heart rate monitor on the wrist - a must have for people with heart disease who, on the recommendation of a doctor, are engaged in light workouts some kind of physical activity.

If at the same time to control the heart rate, not allowing it to exceed a certain limit, exercise will only bring health benefits, will stop the progression of the disease or even improve the condition of the heart muscle.

Design

Any heart rate monitor consists of a sensor that determines the pulse, and a receiver on the screen of which the result is displayed measurements.

In a standard chest heart rate monitor, the sensor is attached to the chest on a soft elastic band, and the receiver in the form of a watch is located on the arm. With a heart rate monitor on the hand, the sensor and receiver are combined in one case in the form of a watch located on the wrist, without a chest strap and sensor it is much more convenient to practice.

There are two main types of wrist heart rate monitors:

classical: in order to measure the pulse, you need to touch the electrodes of the device attached to the arm with the other hand;
heart rate monitors with electro-optical sensor: after the device is put on the arm, it reads the pulse constantly, it is not necessary to touch it with the other hand.

Heart rate monitors of the first type are already outdated and are practically not used. To date, the so-called fitness bracelets, or sports bracelets, have become widespread.

Such a device, equipped with an electro-optical sensor, not only determines the heart rate - it also monitors the status of its owner throughout the day, determining the overall level of his activity, the number of steps taken and calories burned, and much more.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantages of fitness bracelets are their compact and comfortable to wear. A small and light device is almost not felt on the hand, there is no constraining movement of the chest sensor, which must be put on by wetting its contacts with water or lubricating with gel. There are no sensors on the finger or on the earlobe, which are mandatory for devices that determine heart rate by blood pulsation.

But such bracelets also have serious drawbacks:

Their functionality is lower than that of classic models with a chest strap.
They determine the heart rate inaccurately - even the most modern models are far from heart rate monitors with chest sensors.
In addition, the range of sports bracelets is still small - although the future is likely with them, today, due to the above disadvantages, such heart rate monitors are not very common.

How to choose a device for yourself

In order not to make a mistake with the purchase, when choosing pay attention to three main points:

functionality: modern devices can not only read the pulse, they also have many additional functions (more on them in the next section);
Possibility of synchronization with external devices: synchronization, for example, with a smartphone will greatly expand your capabilities;
Waterproof: there are hand-held heart rate monitors that can be used for swimming, as they are protected from water, as well as exclusively “land” ones - you can’t swim with them, they are cheaper and more suitable for running;

Also, when buying, it is worth clarifying whether batteries are included in the kit, if not, immediately purchase them.

And, of course, in order to right choice, you can refer to device reviews and expert advice, as well as reviews from athletes and other buyers who have already had time to evaluate certain models in action.

Additional functions

All modern heart rate monitors have many additional functions in addition to measuring heart rate and displaying this information on the screen. The most important of them - the ability to manually set the desired pulse corridor. In case of exit from it, the device will notify you with a sound signal.

Besides, standard additional features include:

watch;
stopwatch and timer;
pedometer, running speed, counting the number of laps and distance traveled
calculator for body mass index, calorie consumption and fat burned;
determination of the average heart rate during training and the maximum heart rate;
maintaining statistics, storing training data in memory so that they can be analyzed in the future.

Find out which device is best for running in the video:

Popular wrist models

Mio Alpha 2

The second version of the Alpha sports bracelet retained the features that were in the first model, and acquired additional functions.

This device continuously monitors heart rate, beeps when you go outside the set pulse corridor and synchronizes with your smartphone.

It is worth noting that due to the wide silicone bracelet, the device looks rather bulky, this is especially noticeable on the female hand.

Fitbit Charge HR

This sports bracelet conducts round-the-clock monitoring of the state of its owner.

In addition to the function of the heart rate monitor here there is a pedometer, assessment of the distance traveled, determination of the level of activity during the day, calorie counting, "quiet" alarm (Charge HR wakes the owner with a call) and much more.

Mio Fuse

According to the manufacturer, this sports bracelet detects heart rate with particularly high accuracy thanks to an optical sensor and a simplified heart rate monitoring algorithm.

Has the full functionality of modern heart rate monitors on hand- pedometer, counting calories burned, synchronization with a smartphone and so on. There are two modes of operation - everyday and training.

How to use the heart rate monitor

Let's consider using a fitness bracelet using Mio Alpha 2 as an example:

on a smartphone with Android or iOS OS, you need to install a special Mio Go application and synchronize the phone with the bracelet;
then you need to configure the device, set the pulse zones, date and time, enter your data (height, weight, and so on);
the heart rate monitor is started by long pressing the button on the right;
when the device goes beyond the set pulse corridor, the device emits an audible signal.

Frequently asked questions about sports bracelets

A modern wrist heart rate monitor is a multifunctional device that can be very useful.

Perhaps its main disadvantage is low measurement accuracy compared to chest heart rate monitors, however, it is higher than that of . However, fitness bracelets are well suited for amateur sports, as well as for tracking heart rate and general activity levels throughout the day.

If you want to better monitor your overall physiological capacity, you need to keep a close eye on your heart rate. As practice has shown, this can be best done using a chest heart rate monitor. In our review, we will help you choose the best chest heart rate monitor.

Heart rate monitor in a chest and in a sports watch / fitness bracelet: what's the difference?

Heart rate trackers in chest straps provide more consistent and accurate heart rate readings than wristwatches. This is due to the higher reading frequency and less fluctuation on the body. However, not all athletes find the belt comfortable, even more so if the user does not know how. Most of all, it is suitable for runners or cyclists, but not for fitness rooms. Some swimmers use a chest heart rate monitor, although there are reports that it squeezes chest and brings discomfort.

Nowadays, many fitness bracelets and smartwatches include an optical heart rate sensor. Instead of measuring electrical impulses like the belt, it uses light to read the pulse of blood flow through the skin. While these gadgets are more convenient, optical sensors aren't as accurate and aren't always the best choice. They will not make a good companion for people who participate in high-intensity interval training and other workouts during which sudden changes in heart rate occur.

There are three groups of heart rate belts: one wirelessly connects to a smartphone or PC, and the other uses a combination of two sensors that communicate with each other. In this case, it uses a device on the wrist - be it a sports watch or a fitness band - that provides a wireless connection to a chest strap. The third group is able to connect to both smartphones and PCs, as well as fitness bracelets and watches. Communication with peripheral devices is carried out using a Bluetooth or ANT + channel.

Using the belt of the first group, the athlete will not have immediate feedback when working with a chest heart rate monitor, since it does not have a display. All data from its memory will be transferred to a smartphone or PC after training. Otherwise, the phone will have to be taken with you for a run.

When exercising with a belt of the second group, it is possible to observe the heart rate and other data directly on the watch screen during exercise.

In any case, it is up to you to decide which type is preferable.

Top 5 chest heart rate monitors

There are many models of belts for accurate heart rate tracking on the market today. We offer an overview of chest heart rate monitors that provide the most accurate heart rate data compared to fitness bracelets and sports smartwatches.

The Tickr X belt includes a sensor that counts reps during strength training and records advanced exercise metrics such as body vertical oscillation and ground contact time while running, as well as speed and distance. Cycling enthusiasts will be able to experience cadence when using the Wahoo Fitness app.

This chest strap with heart rate monitor reliably tracks your heart rate during workouts and sends data via ANT+ and Bluetooth to any device you have at hand, be it an Android/iOS phone or some fitness tracker. The Tickr X has a built-in memory of up to 16 hours of information that you can view in the app later.

The device provides feedback to the user through two small flashing LEDs, one red to indicate that a heart rate has been detected and one blue to indicate that the Tickr X is connected to another device.

Another type of feedback is vibration during certain user actions. For example, when the tracker is programmed to start or stop the music track when you touch it.

Fitness Tickr X not only positions itself as a running heart rate monitor with a chest strap, but it is also quite suitable for fitness enthusiasts. It offers more than any other chest heart rate monitor on our list, which is why we gave it the number one spot on this list.

Work with a large number of applications
Waterproof
User Feedback
Has Bluetooth and ANT+

On the connected device (sports watch or fitness bracelet), only heart rate data can be viewed - other indicators can only be viewed using applications
Unsuitable for swimming

Designed specifically for triathletes, the Garmin chest strap with a small and lightweight tracker adjusts for comfort both in the water and on land. This strap can be used not only by swimmers, but also by athletes in the gym as a traditional heart rate monitor. The tracker sends real-time heart rate data to the paired watch using ANT+ wireless transmission technology (instead of Bluetooth LE).

When you swim, the heart rate sensor stores up to 20 hours of heart rate information, and then when you leave the pool, it transmits it to the connected Garmin watch. This is because ANT+ signals cannot pass through water.

The HRM Tri chest heart rate monitor is compatible with the following Garmin watches:

In addition to standard running heart rates, the HRM Tri provides motion dynamics including cadence, vertical oscillation and ground contact time (using it with the Epix, Fenix 3 and Forerunner 920 XT).

With the free Garmin Connect online community, you can store your data, plan your workouts, and share your results with others. You can view detailed swim metrics including heart rate graphs, swim speed, stroke type, mapping and more. And also track activity statistics: daily steps, distance and calories burned.

The Garmin HRM Tri is a great chest heart rate monitor for swimming, fitness, running and cycling with a durable build and accurate readings.

Water resistance	5 ATM (50 m)
Battery	life span 10 months (three workouts 1 hour per day)
Price	$129,99

Rugged construction
Suitable for swimming
Works with Garmin watches

Expensive
ANT+ only (no Bluetooth LE)

Beautiful and small, the Suunto Smart Belt chest strap pairs perfectly with the Suunto AMBIT3 sports watch using Bluetooth 4 Smart LE.

The main feature of this chest heart rate monitor is that it does not show real-time information due to the lack of a display, but writes all data to memory. You can turn on the heart rate sensor on the strap using the app, accessible through your smartphone or Suunto AMBIT3 smart watch. Then you can go to train: run, swim, do fitness. Accurate data on heart rate and calories burned will be transferred to the MOVESCOUNT software for logging and subsequent analysis. You must also turn off the device through the software.

Since the heart rate monitor has Bluetooth technology, it will also work with many other fitness apps on iOS and Android.

Suunto Smart Belt is the smallest Bluetooth Smart compatible heart rate sensor on the market that measures your heart rate with greater comfort and accuracy.

Compact comfortable fit
Provides accurate data
Waterproof
Compatible with both iOS and Android
Works with a companion app on a smartphone

Loses elasticity over time, resulting in poor skin contact and consequently inaccurate data
Poorly designed and inconvenient MOVESCOUNT application

The Polar H10 chest strap heart rate monitor has built-in memory, with the ability to store a single training session for up to 65 hours before syncing with your phone. The sensor is turned on using the application in the smartphone, and then at the end of the workout you can view your heart rate data.

The lack of a screen on the belt device does not allow for real-time feedback. Therefore, you can use it with compatible Polar equipment for training equipment, as well as Polar smartwatches and cycling computers. H10 pairs with most modern smartphones (iOS, iPhone and Android) via Bluetooth and works with fitness apps.

The Polar H10 does not track sleep, activity or steps, but when paired with a Polar sports watch it will greatly improve your performance reading. And with the V800, you can get heart rate data while swimming.

The company is known for the good performance of its products, so the Polar chest heart rate monitor has an excellent reputation for reliability and accuracy and an honorable place in our rating.

Water resistance	3 ATM (30 m)
Battery	replaceable (CR2025), 400 hours
Price	$89

Comfortable to wear
Accurate heart rate readings
Good battery life
Waterproof
Works with third party apps
Does not require a smartphone
Sends heart rate data to GoPro Hero 4 and 5 action cameras

Paid shared features in native app
High price

The MZ-3 chest strap has a unique approach to using heart rate data. It uses heart rate to reward the user based on their individual effort levels. Essentially, you get points based on hitting different heart rate ranges. The number of points increases with your intensity.

The application has competitor statistics, where you can compare your points with friends and acquaintances. This playful approach can be applied to any exercise, whether you are a rower, runner or cyclist.

The tracker turns on when it detects skin contact. There will be no problems with battery drain if you forget to turn off the heart rate monitor through the application in your smartphone, as in other chest straps. But there is a risk to start the heart rate monitor, holding it just in the palm of your hand. In this case, the device gives a characteristic sound signal when it is turned on and off to notify the user.

Because the MZ-3 tracks your heart rate and not your movements or steps, it can pretty much be applied to any sport - even swimming, as it's waterproof up to 5 ATM. The MZ-3 is ANT+ enabled, allowing it to work with third-party apps such as Strava or MapMyFitness, allowing them to stream heart rate data and GPS directions while running or cycling. There's also a MyZone MZ-50 sports watch that can be paired with the strap to provide live stats during workouts.

If you're looking for motivation as well as an accurate indicator of how much effort you put in, we recommend the MyZone MZ-3. Efforts are rewarded. This makes the MyZone MZ-3 a solid choice for everyone from fitness beginners to pros.

Water resistance	5 ATM (50 m)
Battery	7 months
Price	$130

The competitive element of the MyZone platform motivates and stimulates
Accurate heart rate readings
Multisport versatility
Long battery life

It's not always obvious that the tracker is on
Can slip during swimming and intense workouts
Native app needs extra features
High price

Most heart rate monitors use rechargeable batteries. However, some use batteries the size of a watch battery, which sometimes need to be replaced.
Not all heart rate monitors are waterproof. If you want to swim with a chest strap, choose one that's designed for in-water activities.
To clean the monitor screen and heart rate sensors, gently wipe them with a soft cloth. To get rid of tough stains, lightly dampen the cloth first.
Use warm soapy water to clean the straps. Air dry under the sun.

Comparison table of characteristics

For mobile use horizontal table scrolling


Battery	Replaceable CR2032 battery	Replaceable CR2032 battery	Replaceable CR2025 battery	Replaceable CR2032 battery	USB, lithium battery
Battery life	Up to 12 months	10 months (three workouts 1 hour per day)	Up to 500 hours	up to 400 h	7 months battery life on a charge
Water resistance	IPX7 (Waterproof up to 10ATM)	5 ATM (50 m)	3 ATM (30 m)	3 ATM (30 m)
Sensor		Heart rate sensor, accelerometer	Heart rate sensor	Heart rate sensor	Heart rate sensor
Connection	Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ (dual band technology)	ANT+	Bluetooth	Bluetooth (supports simultaneous connections)	Bluetooth, ANT+
Internal storage		Yes	Yes. Up to 3 hours of workout data	Yes	Yes. Up to 16 hours of workout data
Heart rate	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
heart rate variability	No	Yes	No	No	No
Tracking	Calories, vertical oscillation and ground contact time	Cadence, stride length, ground contact time, ground contact time balance, vertical oscillation and vertical ratio	Real-time heart rate and calories burned data	Tracks heart rate with multiple target zones as well as calories burned, steps taken and distance	Monitors heart rate, calories and time
Swimming stats	Heartbeat	Heartbeat	Heart rate	Transmits heart rate information while swimming to devices that support 5 kHz transmission	No
Peculiarities	Works with apps like RunFit 7-minute workout and more Tracks cadence while cycling when paired with the Wahoo Fitness app	Specially designed for triathletes		Indoor Gym Compatibility Connecting a GoPro Allows you to choose your favorite activity from over 100 sports profiles and get real-time voice guidance during your workout	Live data display via mobile app, watch or gym equipment Online journal with goal setting, biometrics, tasks, status and social channels

Remember: if you have any concerns about your health or fitness level, check with your doctor. And it's always a good idea to consult with a personal trainer when developing exercises and goals. Take care of yourself.

Reading time: 21 minutes

A heart rate monitor is a measuring device that measures the heart rate. It is also called a heart rate monitor.

Heart rate monitor use to control the work of the heart, analyze the load, determine the zones of the pulse and go beyond these zones. On the market of sports paraphernalia for sale a large number of variety of models for monitoring heart rate. Let's see what a heart rate monitor is for, what are its advantages and benefits, how to choose it, and also consider the most popular models of heart rate monitors on the market.

Heart rate monitor: what is it for and what are the benefits

If you need information about the work of your heart during a workout, then such a device as a heart rate monitor is a must for you. During exercise, the heart rate monitor helps you maintain your desired heart rate, measures the number of calories burned and monitors the work of the heart and the load. Most often, the heart rate monitor is used during interval and cardio training, but also during power loads it won't be redundant at all. In addition, the heart rate monitor can be used during daily activities to monitor the work of the heart.

Who needs a heart rate monitor?

Those who do cardio training for weight loss or endurance development.
For those involved in high-intensity interval training(HIIT).
Those who have heart problems and need to control their heart rate.
Those who want to control the number of calories burned during training.
And also for those who want to regularly improve their results without harm to health.

Why do you need to measure your heart rate during a workout? Depending on your pulse or heart rate (HR for short), your body will use different sources of energy. Based on this, there are several load zones that determine the effectiveness of your workout:

The indicated percentage is taken from the value of the maximum heart rate. To calculate it, we use the formula: Maximum heart rate = 220 - age.

Accordingly, in order for the body to use fatty acids as a source, it is enough to keep the pulse in the zone of 60-70% of the maximum heart rate. For example, if you are 30 years old, then the following calculations apply to calculate your possible heart rate range:

Lower threshold \u003d (220-30) * 0.6 \u003d 114
Upper threshold \u003d (220-30) * 0.7 \u003d 133

With this pulse (114-133 bpm) you can practice for a long time, maintaining an uninterrupted pace. In this case, the load will be aerobic, that is, using oxygen. Such cardio workouts help burn fat and train the heart.

If you are doing high-intensity interval training (for example, training according to the Tabata protocol), then at the moments of peak your heart rate should be in the anaerobic zone, i.e. 80-90% of maximum heart rate:

Lower threshold \u003d (220-30) * 0.8 \u003d 152
Upper threshold \u003d (220-30) * 0.9 \u003d 171

The heart rate monitor helps you monitor your heart rate and keep it in the zone that meets your requirements. If the heart rate monitor model allows, then you can set the heart rate zones you are interested in, and you will be notified when your heart rate leaves the specified zone.

Advantages of the heart rate monitor:

The heart rate monitor protects the heart from overloading during exercise because you control the heart rate value.
You will work out in the heart rate zone you need - for fat burning or endurance, depending on your goals, which means you train more efficiently.
With a heart rate monitor, it is easy to track your progress, analyze the level of load and its perception by the body.
You will know exactly how many calories burned during your workout.
You can use the heart rate monitor during your normal daily activities to assess your body's performance or monitor stress.
The heart rate monitor is indispensable while running or brisk walking on the street, when there are no other sources to determine the level of load.

Many cardio machines already have a built-in heart rate monitor. But firstly, such heart rate monitors show inaccurate data, which is better not to focus on. Secondly, to fix the data, you need to hold on to the handles while running or walking, which is not always convenient. Therefore, if you want to get the most accurate data on heart rate and calories, then it is better to purchase a heart rate monitor.

You can also use manual heart rate monitoring. To do this, you need to stop and count the beats, fixing the received values. However, additional manipulations during training are not always convenient, and the obtained values will have a strong error. In addition, constant stops lower your heart rate, which disrupts the rhythm of the session. That is why the heart rate monitor is indispensable: it will record data instantly throughout the entire workout.

The main functions of the heart rate monitor:

Monitoring of heart rate (HR)
Setting the heart rate zone
Notification of a change in heart rate zone with sound or vibration
Calculation of average and maximum heart rate
Calorie counter
Time and date display
Stopwatch, timer

Some heart rate monitors have additional features: GPS navigation, alarm clock, pedometer, workout history, auto count training zones, fitness test, individual lap heart rate calculation (useful for runners), sync with apps and computer. How great features equipped with a device, the more expensive it is.

Types of heart rate monitors

Heart rate monitors can be divided into 2 large groups: chest(using a chest strap) and carpal. Heart rate monitor with chest strap enjoys b O more popular among those involved, but thanks to new technologies, models have appeared that allow you to accurately measure your heart rate even without a chest sensor.

A chest heart rate monitor is a sensor with electrodes that is worn under the chest and transmits data to a watch receiver or a mobile application. There are two types of models of chest heart rate monitors, which differ in configuration:

Heart rate monitor without clock-receiver. In this case, the data is transferred to the smartphone via Bluetooth Smart technology. The sensor is synchronized with special applications in the smartphone, where all the necessary information about heart rate and calories burned is automatically stored. This is handy for training analysis as the app keeps the entire history of the data. Most often, heart rate monitors are synchronized with applications on Android and iOs operating systems.
Heart rate monitor with watch-receiver. In this case, the sensor sends the data to the receiver watch, where it is processed and you can see it on the screen. Such models are more expensive, but also more convenient. You do not need to additionally use a smartphone, all information will be displayed on the clock. For example, it is more convenient to use such heart rate monitors on the street.

If you purchase a heart rate monitor with a watch-applicant, then also pay attention to the type of data transfer. There are two types of data transfer from the chest strap to the watch:

Analog (non-coded) type of data transmission. May be subject to radio interference. It is considered less accurate, but if there is an error, then it is very small. The analog heart rate monitor can sync with cardio equipment by picking up heart rate data from your belt. However, if someone in your immediate vicinity (within a meter) is using a heart rate monitor with the same type of data transmission, for example, in a group workout, interference may occur.
Digital (coded) type of data transmission. More expensive and more accurate type of data transmission, not subject to interference. However, a digital heart rate monitor cannot be synchronized with exercise machines.

Both analog and digital heart rate monitors are quite accurate, so the type of data transfer does not play a key role when choosing a heart rate monitor. It does not make sense to overpay for a digital type of data transfer.

Wrist heart rate monitors

The convenience of wrist heart rate monitors is that you do not need to wear a chest strap with a sensor. To measure data, you only need a watch that is worn on the wrist. However, this version of heart rate monitors has a number of features and disadvantages, so despite the apparent convenience, wrist heart rate monitors are still less popular.

There are two types of wrist heart rate monitors that differ in how heart rate is monitored:

Pulse is measured when fingers and touch touch on the front of the device. You simply put the heart rate monitor on your wrist, touch it, and the device gives you heart rate values. The disadvantage of such monitoring is that you will measure the pulse not for a certain period of time, but on demand, only after the fingers and the electrodes on the case come into contact. Such a heart rate monitor is more suitable for hiking, mountaineering, or for those who, due to health restrictions, are forced to periodically monitor the pulse zone.
Pulse is measured using tracking behind the blood vessels. The principle of operation of such heart rate monitors is as follows: you put the bracelet on your hand, the LEDs shine through the skin, the optical sensor measures vasoconstriction and the sensor displays the obtained values on the watch screen. But the disadvantages of such devices are also obvious. For data accuracy, the strap must be tightly tightened on the wrist, which is not always convenient during training. Also, heavy sweating or rainy weather may interfere with sensor performance.

Of course, a watch is more familiar equipment than a chest strap. Therefore, if you are uncomfortable wearing a belt under your chest, we recommend purchasing the second version of the wrist heart rate monitor. But discomfort and inconvenience is perhaps the only argument in favor of a wrist heart rate monitor. Most trainees still opt for a heart rate monitor with a chest strap because of the convenience and accuracy of the data.

Prices for a heart rate monitor are determined by the following parameters:

Manufacturing company
Type of heart rate monitor: chest or wrist
Options: is there a receiver watch, interchangeable straps, cases, etc.
Data transfer type: analog or digital
Moisture protection
Belt, its width, quality, ease of fastening
The quality of the watch-receiver case
Availability of additional functions

Heart rate monitors: a selection of the best models

We offer you a selection of models of heart rate monitors with brief description, prices and pictures. Based on this review, you will be able to choose the right heart rate monitor for you. Prices are based on Yandex Market data as of September 2017 and may differ from the cost of a heart rate monitor in your store.

Sigma heart rate monitors

Popular models of Sigma heart rate monitors are developed by a Taiwanese manufacturer. Among heart rate monitors, Sigma is considered one of the market leaders, their models are almost ideal in terms of price and quality. They mainly offer models of heart rate monitors with a chest strap and watch:

Sigma PC 3.11: The most primitive model with basic heart rate counting function. Calories are not counted.
Sigma PC 10.11: The optimal model with all the necessary basic functions, including calculation of the average and maximum heart rate, calorie counter, sound signal when the target heart rate zone is violated.
Sigma PC 15.11: This model is suitable for runners, as it adds features such as lap counter, average and maximum heart rate per lap, calories burned per lap, time per lap.
Sigma PC 22.13 A: This heart rate monitor uses digital transmission, so the price is a little expensive. The model is offered in several body colors. The functions are standard: calculation of average and maximum heart rate, calorie counter, zone indicator, sound signal when the target heart rate zone is violated.
Sigma PC 26.14: model similar to the previous one, but with the addition of new features. For example, this device has a lap counter, an automated function for calculating the target zone, a memory for 7 training sessions, weekly totals.

Polar heart rate monitors

Polar is one of the most well-known brands in the heart rate monitor market. Polar produces quality devices, but their price is much higher. You can purchase a chest strap with a sensor that will transmit data to your smartphone, or a set of a strap and watch receiver for more convenient data tracking.

Chest straps with sensor:

Polar H1 Features: GymLink communication interface, Android and iOs support, waterproof.
Polar H7: GymLink and Blutooth Smart communication interfaces, Android and iOs support, moisture protection.
Polar H10: A new generation of heart rate monitors that replaced the H7, one of the most popular heart rate monitor models.

Chest heart rate monitor with watch included:

Polar A300: in addition to the standard functions, this device also has many additional "chips": pedometer, sleep monitoring, reminder function, goal setting, accelerometer. It is also possible to connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth.
Polar FT60: this model includes a calorie counter function, as well as a number of auxiliary, but very convenient and useful functions, such as: alarm clock, second time zone, low battery indicator, button lock from accidental pressing.
Polar M430: Another very versatile gadget, waterproof, with GPS navigation and backlight. Added a notification function for incoming calls, received messages and notifications from applications for social networks GPS.

Beurer heart rate monitors

This brand includes models of heart rate monitors with a chest strap and models in which you need to touch the sensor of the device to measure data. For training, we recommend choosing heart rate monitors with a chest strap, it is more convenient and practical.

Beurer PM25: simple and convenient model, there are all important functions, for example, a built-in calendar, clock, alarm clock, stopwatch, calorie counter, notification when leaving the training zone.
Beurer PM45: Same feature set as PM25, but add interchangeable straps, bike mount, storage case.
Beurer PM15: this is a wrist heart rate monitor with a touch of the sensor, the device controls the heart rate, notifies you when you leave the training zone, but does not count calories. Price: 3200 rubles.

Suunto heart rate monitors

Another well-known company in the sports equipment market that produces a series of sports watch with the ability to measure the pulse. Suunto offers chest straps and chest straps with your watch:

Suunto Comfort Belt: chest strap suitable for all T-series sports watches and computers that can be used as a heart rate monitor.
Suunto Smart Belt: Bluetooth Smart chest strap. Compatible with Suunto's Movescount app.
Suunto M2: A chest strap with a watch that has all the basic functions, including heart rate control, calorie counting, automatic selection of the desired heart rate zone.
Suunto M5: This heart rate monitor is equipped with additional features to help you determine the best training regimen for your individual performance, as well as get reliable speed and distance information during your running workouts.

Sanitas heart rate monitors

Sanitas doesn't have many models, but they are low priced, so we mention them as well.

Sanitas SPM22 and SPM25: A heart rate monitor with a chest strap that includes all the essential features and is great for regular use.
Sanitas SPM10: You don't need a chest strap to measure your heart rate with this model. You simply put the device on your wrist and touch the sensor on the front of the device with your finger. Such a device is suitable for people who do not want to wear a chest belt or, for example, for tourism.

Other models

Nexx HRM-02. A budget option for a chest strap with a sensor, which is suitable for those who are not ready to seriously spend money on fitness gadgets. The device has built-in Bluetooth Smart and is compatible with almost all mobile applications that support the function of transmitting data from a wireless heart rate monitor. Counts heart rate and calories burned.
Torneo H103. Chest strap with watch-receiver. It is endowed with all the main functions: heart rate calculation, calorie counter, setting heart rate zones, measuring time in the target zone, stopwatch, calendar and alarm clock, water resistance.
Wahoo TICKR. Another option is a chest heart rate monitor that transmits information via Bluetooth to a smartphone. In addition to the pulse, it keeps track of characteristics such as steps taken and calories burned.

Which heart rate monitor to choose:

If you want to buy a heart rate monitor with the best value for money, then buy the Sigma or Beurer models.
If you want to get the most reliable and accurate device, then buy Polar or Suunto models.
If you want to purchase the simplest and most inexpensive option for a heart rate monitor, you should pay attention to the models that are offered on the Aliexpress website (review below).

Heart rate monitors: a selection of the best models on Aliexpress

We offer you a selection of heart rate monitors that can be purchased on Aliexpress at an affordable price. All heart rate monitors have similar features and are roughly in the same price range, so we suggest you focus on customer reviews, the average product rating and the total number of orders for this product.

Chest strap without watch

If you purchase a chest strap without a watch, heart rate data will be sent to the smartphone app. The chest straps are compatible with all Bluetooth Smart (4.0) and ANT devices. The presented sensors are quite accurate in measuring the pulse.

We suggest you pay attention to the following chest sensors:

Wrist pressure monitor Beurer BC44

Pulse blood pressure monitors

Diagnose arterial pressure pulse tonometers, which take readings from radiation arrhythmia on the wrist, will help quickly and without the involvement of third-party help. Such models are easy to take with you on the road, use permanently or temporarily, and also do not seek help for inflating the cuff or connecting to the mains.

Who can?

Many people believe that such a tool does not give 100% accurate readings, which is not entirely true. This method of diagnosing blood pressure and pulse is suitable for those who meet the following requirements:

Has no vascular problems
Balanced heartbeat, as with arrhythmia, a failure in the readings is possible
A pulse tonometer from an inexpensive segment is recommended for age group people under 45 years old, since the older generation often has pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

Range and functionality of devices

Modern manufacturers of medical equipment offer a wide range of blood pressure monitors with great potential:

The adjustable strap is easily attached to the wrist and can serve not only as a measuring device, but also as a clockwork and heart rate monitor;
Many designs are supplemented with memory for several cells, which makes it possible to control the work of the heart without recording the latest data;
Display backlight and sound accompaniment facilitates diagnostics at night and during travel;
The device is powered by AAA batteries, and can also be equipped with a rechargeable battery and a network cable.

You can buy a pulse tonometer at any professional store or pharmacy, with mandatory warranty service for the device in case of any violations in its operation. Users can choose from models with different designs, font sizes, additional options and graphical indexing. The wrist tonometer, the price of which is affordable for everyone, can be used in any conditions, at work, on the road, in a hospital or while walking. This allows you to always take medications in a timely manner, monitor your health and prevent possible complications and cardiac overload.