If you want to track your heart rate to help monitor the intensity level of physical activity, then a heart rate monitor is a must-have accessory. While high-end products, including tech-savvy devices that transmit data to your PC can cost $300 or more, there are a range of heart-rate monitors available for the casual to serious exerciser for $35 to $130. Choosing the best, most affordable product depends on what you need.
Chest-Strap Monitors
One type of affordable heart rate monitor comes with a chest strap monitor that transmits readings to a wrist watch According to Consumer Search, the top three chest-strap monitors include the Timex Personal Trainer Analog, $60; the Omron HR-100c, $35; and the Timex Easy Trainer Analog, $40. These basic models track heart rate and calories burned, but these devices don't have the additional features that more serious exercisers may want.
Watch-only monitors
Watch-only monitors don't have chest straps, and require the exerciser to touch the display with two fingers to get a reading. Consumer search recommends the Mio Motiva at $90 for those who prefer this strap-free monitor. According to models tested by Consumer Reports (see Resources) that cost between $35 and $110, both the wrist-only and chest-strap monitors proved equally accurate.
Tips
Choosing the right heart rate monitor depends on your budget, what information you desire and what's most comfortable. Experts recommend looking for a snug but comfortable chest strap, a watch display you like and a battery that is easy to replace since some manufacturers void the waterproof warranty if users replace their own batteries.
Advanced Options
The serious exerciser may require additional features such as tracking run distance or laps. Consumer Search voted the Polar FT60, at approximately $215, as one of the the best options in this class of heart rate monitors. Other good options include the G1 GPS Pod at $140 and the S1 Foot Pod for $130.
Member Comments