These days all top athletes monitor their heart rate during training and practice sessions all the way upto the day of competition. Such a wristwatch-sized gadget provides accurate, objective and valuable information on heart rate in various training zones, distance traveled, and speed gained, to name a few functions.
Of course, you have the choice of picking the first monitor that you like. But that can turn out to be a complete waste of money since not all monitors are created equal – a cliché, yes, and yet still true. So, when you are looking to buy the perfect heart rate monitor for yourself, keep the following tips in mind.
Tip-Most of the time the best heart rate monitors are worth checking out first.
Fit the Sports
The makers of heart beat monitors know that their products will be patronized by a wide variety of athletes engaged in various sports. These devices vary in function and feature depending on the athletic activity in question.
Let’s take the difference between a runner and swimmer. While the runner may have need for a stopwatch, the swimmer cannot use it while in the water as his hands are otherwise engaged.
Tip:The polar a3 heart rate monitor is a bestseller.
Consider the differences between a cyclist’s and a runner’s needs. The cyclist will require a special mount for the handlebars as well as a cadence feature while the runner will only require a secure chest and wrist strap to hold the unit securely to the body. The 2 types of monitors will measure speed, distance along with the heart rate.
Tip-If you have time, also take a peek at running heart rate monitor.
There are different suite of heart rate monitoring products by category of sports. Pick one that will work for the sports that you most frequently engage in. These categories will include but aren’t limited to swimming, running and cycleing. Some heart rate monitors such as the Timex Ironman will satisfy the requirements of all three sports.
Consider the Fit
Once you have found the possible models of heart rate monitor for your type of sports, the next step is to ensure that it fits your chest and wrist in a comfortable manner. Don’t forget that you will be wearing this little watch for long periods of time. So make sure it fits well and is comfortable.
