When you perform endurance activities, like a bike ride or run, at high altitude, they become difficult because there is less oxygen available. If you are unused to the altitude, your heart and respiratory rates speed up to compensate for the lower air pressure. As altitude increases, air pressure decreases. You can utilize an altimeter to keep track of air pressure.
Features
You use an altimeter to measure air pressure in terms of distance above sea level. You also may measure your heart rate if the device you choose comes with a monitor to do so. Some devices come with GPS systems that can monitor your speed as well or with cyclometers to keep track of bike speed. You'll also find units that give you temperature readings, have a compass or have a stopwatch.
Heart Rate Limits
If you choose an altimeter with a heart rate monitor, you can seek other features such as programmable heart rate limits and tracking for your recovery heart rate. Some devices feature optical alarms for when you reach your heart rate limit. Don't get frustrated if you are unable to reach the intensity you'd like. You'll experience a 2 percent drop in VO2 max for every 985 feet elevation above 4,920 feet, even if your body has fully acclimatized to the altitude change, according to Rice University in Texas.
Display and Analysis
You will commonly find altimeters with features like heart rate monitors on watches and on units that bolt onto bicycles. Some units display the time, altitude, your heart rate and your distance simultaneously. Others require you to toggle back and forth to see the information. You can pick up units that you simply use as you hike, bike or run or you can purchase units that analyze sports performance via online program support.
Possible Problems
Air pressure changes due to weather changes can throw your altimeter's reading off. You may have to reset your device's reference altitude if this is the case. Temperature can cause issues with your altimeter reading as well because its sensor will contract or expand as the temperature falls and rises. Some devices do, however, have a temperature compensation feature. This only works if you aren't changing elevation, though. Also know that the screen of your altimeter will go blank at cold temperatures, though the device may retain its altitude information. If you are ascending to a high altitude, make sure the battery in your altimeter is fresh; carry a spare and know how to change your battery.
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