The 5 Best Heart Rate Monitors for Exercise
A relatively new addition to the wardrobe, yes, but a powerful one! I like to use a heart rate monitor to get a sense of how hard I’m working as I work out, especially when incorporating new activities into my routine.
Here are five that I think will feel right at home on your wrist.
From Tosca
Make sure you’re sweating for optimal results.
Most people realize that getting your heart rate up is an essential element of exercise. But you may not know you burn fat most efficiently when your heart rate is 70%- 80% of your maximum.
A heart rate monitor can help you reach that sweet spot in every workout. I hope one of the monitors on this list makes your exercise routine more efficient than ever.
Wahoo TICKR FIT Heart Rate Armband
$80
Pros
- 35-hour battery life
- USB Rechargeable
- Tracks heartrate, calories burned, & workout time
Cons
- Requires unique charger
- Some users report strap breakage
The TICKR is designed to work hand in hand with the Wahoo app, but you can use it as effectively with several third-party apps. The armband fits comfortably and securely in a more accessible place than chest-strap trackers.
Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap
$88
Pros
- Compatible with most iPhones & Androids
- Compatible with most smartwatches
- 400-hour battery life
- Connects with 2 Bluetooth devices at once
Cons
- Some users find sizing unclear.t
The Polar H10 is a hyper-versatile model that works well with most mobile devices and smartwatches, as well as many pieces of exercise equipment. Because the H10 is fully waterproof, you can wear it for a broader range of activities.
COOSPO Heart Rate Monitor Armband
$50
Pros
- Lights indicate different heart rate zones
- Compatible with some gym equipment
- Compatible with most fitness apps
Cons
- Some lights are less visible than others
The COOSPO heart rate monitor makes it easy to keep track of your heart rate—the built-in LED lights shine a different color depending on what heart-rate zone you’re currently in. As a bonus, it comes with an extra strap, so you’re always ready for your next adventure.
Garmin Dual Heart Rate Monitor
$53
Pros
- 3.5-year battery life
- ANT+ & Bluetooth compatible
- User-friendly
Cons
- Non-size inclusive strap
This dual heart rate monitor offers Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, so you have more opportunities to track your heart rate while you exercise. The soft fabric chest strap fits comfortably so you can focus on your workout distraction-free. Afterward, you can remove the electronic unit and toss the strap in the washing machine.
Powr Labs Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor
$32
Pros
- Unlimited battery replacement
- Anti-chafe strap
- ANT+ & Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Some users report strap slippage
This sleek chest heart rate monitor pairs easily with most major fitness apps. Its pairing light clearly shows you when you’re connected and ready to go. While the Powr Labs unit isn’t rechargeable, you never have to worry about running out of power—it comes with unlimited battery replacements.
Buyer’s Guide
What to Look for when Buying a Heart Rate Monitor
Where You’ll Wear It
Conversely, wearing a monitor on the forearm is more accessible and potentially more comfortable, but it may not provide the same caliber of data.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your preference.