They're more comfortable and convenient, and, if you're running steadily, should do the job just fine. Optical sensors are integrated into most wearables from the likes of Garmin, Fitbit, Polar and Apple. The latter use an LED array to "see" the blood pulsing through your veins, and estimate your heart rate.
The biggest battleground is chest straps versus wrist devices. Which type of heart rate monitor is most accurate? These can be paired directly to a smartphone, and to smartwatches as well. Those who want to use their phone to work out will need to look for a Bluetooth-enabled strap, which will connect to apps like Strava, Runkeeper and Endomondo. When it comes to chest straps, some use ANT+, which is only compatible with specialist running watches that use that same connectivity – i.e. If it's to check how hard you worked and as a guide to intensity, the slightly less accurate wrist-based sensor can often be good enough for some people.īut if you're using HR to train in real-time, or you need the best quality data possible to input into your Olympian-level training plan, only the accuracy and responsiveness of a chest strap will cut it. It's also key to be honest with yourself about how you'll use the data. That's because lots of movement creates signal noise that affects accuracy. Running and cycling workouts are usually fine for an optical sensor on the wrist, but high intensity workouts and functional fitness (such as CrossFit) is better suited to an EKG chest strap, or an optical sensor in a more stable position, such as the upper arm. This is the most important consideration – how do you workout and how much are you relying on the data? What kind of exercise/how important is accuracy? When people ask us what's the best heart rate monitor to buy, we always ask two questions:
The latest devices can help monitor your heart rate 24/7, help spot illness, stress, tiredness – and help tell you when to take a break. We've outlined that information below.Īnd heart rate monitors are for more than sport. Everyone can gain something from monitoring their heart rate.Ĭhest strap monitors are still the most accurate for working out, but heart rate monitor watches (and smartwatches) are now excellent options – if you use them in the right way. Using a heart rate monitor is the best way to get more data from your training sessions, and that's useful whether you're a novice runner, or a serious athlete.