Heart-rate monitor features

The first consideration when buying a heart-rate monitor is what information you need during your workout. If you just want a general idea of your heart rate -- and don't want to spend much -- a strapless heart-rate monitor is one alternative. You'll need to stop exercising to take a reading, though, so these monitors are best for walkers or casual exercisers. Experts agree that most exercisers should choose a heart-rate monitor with a chest strap, because these monitors are far more accurate and provide a continuous reading.

Some heart-rate monitors come with lots of features and accessories, which adds to the total cost. Things like wireless data transfer, training tests and heart-rate zones can be useful -- if you use them. If you know you won't use these features, you can save a good amount of money with a basic heart-rate monitor. According to experts, there are several things to look for when shopping for a heart-rate monitor:

  • Look for a snug chest strap. If the strap doesn't fit properly, the reading won't be accurate. This is often a problem for women in particular because most straps are designed to fit a man's chest. Special sports bras, which have built-in chest straps or a secure space for a chest transmitter, are available to combat the problem. Models include Polar's Cardio Sports Bra (*Est. $70) and the Numetrex Heart Rate Monitor Sports Bra (*Est. $50).
  • Chest straps can chafe. Chest straps have to be tight to work, but once you start sweating, the strap can chafe your skin. This is mainly a problem for athletes who exercise for long periods. If you have problems with chafing, try applying a small amount of a sports lubricant like Body Glide underneath your chest strap.
  • Consider watch size. Some heart-rate monitors have slim straps that may look too small on a man's wrist; likewise, some monitors are too large and bulky for women with thin wrists. If you can, examine the watch in a store before you buy so you know it will fit well. Many heart-rate monitors come in full- and mid-sized versions to accommodate men and women.  
  • Look for a bold display. You'll be reading your display at arm's length while exercising, so look for a monitor with a large display. If you're a cyclist, look for a monitor that can be mounted on your handlebars. Although smaller watches may be more fashionable, larger displays are easier to read. According to consumers, a backlit display may be more convenient for outdoor and evening workouts.
  • Big buttons are helpful. You need buttons that are easy to find and push with your fingers while you're on the move. Some users complain about small buttons that are hard to push with sweaty fingers.
  • Battery type is important, too. Some heart-rate monitors do not have user-replaceable batteries, meaning you need to send your monitor to the manufacturer for a replacement when the battery dies. This process can take weeks, so look for a user-replaceable battery if you want to avoid that hassle. 
  • Keep the user guide. Heart-rate monitors can be difficult and confusing to set up at first -- a complaint we saw for all types and brands of monitors. Be sure to keep your user manual because you will probably need it to figure out how the monitor works.

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