Heart rate monitor features

The first thing to consider 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 option. You'll need to stop exercising to take a reading, though, so these units are best for walkers or casual exercisers. Experts agree that most trainees should choose a heart rate monitor with a chest strap, because they are far more accurate and provide a continuous reading. Chest straps have to be tight to work, but once you start sweating, the strap can irritate your skin. This is mainly a problem for athletes who exercise for long periods, though applying a small amount of a sports lubricant like Body Glide underneath your chest strap will prevent chafing.

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 take full advantage of these features, you can save a good amount of money by choosing a basic unit instead. According to experts, there are several things to look for when shopping for a heart rate monitor:

  • Fit test the 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 are available that have built-in chest straps or a secure space for a chest transmitter, including Polar's Cardio Sports Bra (*Est. $70) and the NuMetrex Heart Rate Monitor Sports Bra (*Est. $50).
  • Consider watch and button 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. Besides appearance, functionality is important, too. You need buttons that are easy to find and push while you're on the move. Some users complain about small buttons that are hard to push with sweaty fingers.
  • Seek out 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 unit 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.
  • Know how to replace the battery. 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. Be sure to keep your user manual because you will probably need it to figure out how the monitor works.

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