A target heart rate helps you work out more effectively. A heart rate monitor helps you keep track of your rate as you exercise. Prices for heart rate monitors range up to $200 or more, but you will also find several under $100 that work well. The key is determining your needs before you shop for an exercise heart rate monitor.
Benefits
A quality heart rate monitor allows you to tailor your workout to keep yourself within your target heart range. Some models beep or otherwise indicate when you are outside your target heart rate range. This lets you know when you need to slow down or speed up your workout.
Types
The two main types of heart rate monitors are chest strap monitors and strapless monitors. Chest strap monitors include both an elastic chest strap and a receiver unit, which is typically a watch-like unit you wear on the wrist. It provides continuous, real-time heart rate monitoring. Strapless units only have the watch-like monitor and require you to stop exercising and place your fingers on it to read your heart rate.
Considerations
Your purpose for using the heart rate monitor plays a role in your selection of a quality model, according to Consumer Search. Serious athletes are more likely to chose a chest strap monitor for the continuous monitoring and greater accuracy. Most of these monitors range from $100 to $250. Some models cost up to $470 for lots of extra features. If you are exercising for general fitness and don't care about continuous monitoring, a strapless model is usually a more affordable choice, with several options under $100. Consider the type of information you want when choosing a model.
Size
The size of the receiving unit is a consideration when choosing the best heart rate monitor for you. Try on the watch unit if possible to make sure it isn't too big or small for your wrist. A comfortable model that doesn't look and feel clunky will make you feel more comfortable when you exercise. The comfort level and fit of the chest strap is also a key element. Consumer Search recommends a snug chest strap for the most accurate reading.
Features
Heart rate monitors at the high end of the cost scale may offer additional features to enhance your workout. Inspect the display to assess the information the unit gathers. This might include calculating heart rate zones for you and tracking calories burned. Some monitors also allow you to download or transmit your information to a computer. A watch with a display that is easy to read and use decreases the interruptions you might have while exercising.
