Heart Rate Monitors Provide Constant Feedback

There are several fitness apps on the market today. Some you can wear on your wrists, such as a watch or fitness wearable. Others record data into a smartphone app.

Data collected may include sleep patterns, blood pressure, steps, and more, depending on the device. To me, the most critical data point while I exercise is my heart rate. I like to use a chest strap device that feeds HR data to my bike computer and smartphone. Either way, I can tell at a glance whether I am working too hard or not hard enough.

Keep in mind that It is important to remember that individuals with chronic disease may need medical clearance before starting a new exercise routine. In addition, performing exercise routines without supervision can be dangerous, especially for those new to exercise.

With that in mind, heart rate monitors (HRMs) have become very popular within the fitness industry. Traditionally, they were used by endurance athletes, such as runners and triathletes, to monitor training levels. However, HRMs have become more widely used within mainstream fitness.

According to NASM, HRMs measure the number of times the heart beats in a 1-minute cycle. A faster heart rate indicates a higher level of physical exertion. As such, individuals can use HRMs to measure their level of effort objectively. Although wristbands/watches are the most convenient and widely used HRM, chest strap monitors provide the most accurate readings. Furthermore, wrist-worn devices are less accurate when performing higher-intensity activities and may be prone to more inaccurate readings when performing upper body movements (Cadmus-Bertram et al., 2017).

Like fitness trackers, heart rate monitors range in price considerably depending on the quality of the HRM and the additional features offered. Shoppers should do their homework to ensure they get a monitor that best suits their personal needs.