Pulse Monitor


Pulse, or heart rate, monitors allow you to check your heart rate while you exercise. They consist of a transmitter and a receiver (doubling as a watch). Transmitters are often worn with a chest strap while receivers are often worn on a wrist. Strapless monitors are available though they aren't quite as functional as the original two-part design. Some newer models can measure the variability in a heart rate and more effectively assess the user's level of fitness.

How Pulse Monitors Work

The transmitter features electrodes that contact the skin in order to monitor the electrical voltages of the heart. When the transmitter detects a heartbeat, it sends this information to the receiver in the form of a radio signal. Expensive monitors feature a unique coded signal sent by the transmitter to the receiver. This prevents interference from other signals in the nearby vicinity from being received.

Target Heart Rate

When you exercise, your pulse should reach fifty-five to ninety percent of your maximum heart rate, as recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine. Those training can use information about their heart rate to effectively adjust the intensity of their exercise session so that they remain in their desired heart rate zone. The better your fitness level, the more intense your workout can be while still remaining at the same heart rate.

Different Types of Pulse Monitors

ECG-Accurate Monitors are those with a transmitter that fits around your chest. These detect your heart rate just like an ECG – by measuring the electrical signal. The information is passed to the receiver at the wrist or sometimes in earphones. Receiver designs vary greatly. Basic models only show your heart rate and possibly the amount of time you've been exercising. Higher-end models have features such as:
  • Target heart zone alarm

  • Countdown timers

  • Stopwatch

  • Interval timers

  • Clock

  • Alarm

  • Calorie counter

  • The measure of average heart rate over the exercise period

  • Time spent in a specific heart rate zone

  • A detailed log that can be downloaded onto a computer.
Pulse monitors without a chest strap work when you place one or two fingers on sensors. They cannot provide a constant heart rate reading – this information is only available when you demand it. They are also less reliable, often providing wild readings.

Other Considerations When Shopping for a Pulse Monitor

The display and ease of use are hugely important factors. Consider the following:
  • Are the numbers on the display easy to read?

  • Can you read the number in low light situations?

  • Are there too many unnecessary features to keep track of?

  • Are the buttons easy enough to operate?
Price, of course, is possibly the biggest consideration. Shop around and keep in mind what your basic needs are.

By Aadika Singh           


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