A triathlon involves three separate events: a swim, bike and run, completed in succession. A full triathlon is a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike race and a 26.2-mile marathon. You will need a heart rate monitor that provides tracking capabilities and the necessary features for all three events.
Training
Training for a triathlon requires a lot of planning and coordinating. You have to train for all three events simultaneously and incorporate lighter training days with intense training days. Look for a heart rate monitor with a training guide feature that helps you avoid over- or under-training. Another useful feature is the ability to download your training information to a computer so you can track and analyze your progress.
Water Resistant
Not all heart rate monitors are water-resistant. You will be in water frequently as you train for the swim portion of the triathlon. Select a heart rate monitor that is water-resistant to at least 20 meters. Check the procedures for replacing the battery when it dies. The batteries on some water-resistant monitors are not user-replaceable since you may damage the water seal. Make sure you can get the battery replaced quickly if needed.
Transmitter
Heart rate monitors have different methods for transmitting your pulse to the wrist monitor. Do not use a heart rate monitor with pulse sensors on the wrist monitor. You have to place your fingers on the sensors anytime you want to check your heart rate. This is not practical during a triathlon. Choose a heart rate monitor that uses a chest transmitter. A coded transmitter is a good investment as it prevents interference from other electrical devices and heart rate monitors.
Display
Although not a flashy feature, a large display with large buttons can make your heart rate monitor much easier to use. You will not want to always stop to check the data on your wrist monitor. Pressing buttons and reading numbers while your are running, biking or swimming is difficult. A large display makes it easier to read and program your monitor while maintaining your pace.
Member Comments