Choosing to use a heart rate monitor when exercising can provide important feedback and help you evaluate the effectiveness of your training. Two types of heart rate monitors -- those that use chest straps and those that are strapless -- are available. Proper fit for a chest strap requires that the chest strap fit snugly below the pectoral muscles or breasts. Heavy set users may prefer strapless monitors that can be worn on the forearm or wrist .
Polar FT 40
Polar USA is generally recognized as the leader in wireless heart monitoring devices, having been the inventor of the first EKG wireless device in 1977. The Polar FT 40 comes with a watch and chest strap. The chest strap is available in three different sizes available for both men and women, with the largest chest size adjustable up to 60 inches. The wrist strap on the watch can fit up to an 8-inch wrist. As of October 2010, the Polar FT 40 sells for $179. This monitor offers a variety of features helpful if you want to track fitness improvement and fat-burning levels during your workout.
Omron HR 100-C
The Omron HR 100-C is priced under $60 as of October 2010 and has received an average four stars based on 700 consumers who rated this product. The chest strap can adjust up to 44 inches and the watch band fits up to an 8-inch wrist. In addition to providing heart rate readings during exercise, this monitor will alert you when you exceed or drop below your target heart rate.
EPulse2 Strapless Heart Rate Monitor
This heart rate monitor does not require the use of the chest strap. Instead, it is worn around the forearm - and can be worn on the wrist for some exercises -- thus eliminating any concern about whether the strap is long enough to fit. More technologically advanced than other strapless models, the ePulse2 provides continuous heart rate monitoring and sells for $139 as of October 2010.
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