Monitoring your heart rate during training can help you check the intensity of you workout. There are many ways to calculate the heart rate manually, though the use of electronic heart rate monitors has become more popular. These tools give an instant reading of the current heart rate, but there are some problems that can occur when using this equipment.
Erratic Readings
Erratic readings can happen when there are problems with the monitor belt. For example, if it slips away from the designated area, it can give inaccurate readings. The belt must be placed securely to ensure accurate readings.
Interferance
Heart rate monitors can be affected by other monitors nearby, such as in gym settings where treadmills are placed close together. Some treadmills with heart rate functions can also affect the reading. If running in a group, maintain the minimally recommended space between people to keep readings accurate.
Poor Quality Monitors
Less reliable monitors can fluctuate and give inaccurate readings. Highly reliable monitors are more expensive.
Dying Batteries
When the batteries in heart rate monitors run out, you can lose stored information. Most monitor batteries last two years. Changing the batteries regularly can help you avoid lost information.
Regulate Accuracy
It is important to manually calculate the target heart rate zone prior to exercise to make sure your heart rate monitor is working correctly. This can be time-consuming, but is an essential step for an athlete using heart rate to judge her training zone.
Expensive
Many reliable monitors can be very expensive; there are some cheaper options, but they lack accuracy and reliability. Prices range from $30 and up to $300.
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