Do accurate strapless heart rate monitors exist?
I'm a runner. I've been using a Garmin with GPS to track my runs, which I enjoy. I have issues with the chest strap, though. (Not just Garmin's.) I find chest straps to be very uncomfortable to wear; they get stuck under the band of my bra and chafe, or they twist, or they slip. It doesn't matter how well-adjusted it is, I just don't like them.
I've tried the FitBit and a few other gadgets, but they estimate calorie burn based on weight and age.
Is there such a thing as an accurate heart rate monitor that doesn't use a chest strap? I know there are some watches that have sensors that sit against your wrist pulse. Are these anywhere close to accurate?
Note that I'm not looking for continuous monitoring; I only want an HRM to use during exercise.
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If you are a true sports enthusiast and you require accurate results, I recommend you to consider the Adidas miCoach Seamless Sports Bra, it has an in built strap and hence wont be uncomfortable. The two buttons in front on the outside is where the miCoach HRM can be attached. This HRM supports Ant+ and hence can be used with various devices including Suunto, Garmin, etc
Here is a reference link: shop.numetrex.com/product/adidas-micoach-seamless-sports-bra/
I'm using one called Mio Link, and I'm liking it a lot. It's new tech, so I've kept my Polar Beat handy in case I have issues, but so far so good.
There is relatively new technology, which others have linked to, called optical heart rate monitoring. Examples of products that use it include:
Mio Link
TomTom Cardio Runner
and others
And a few others. Based on the customer reviews from the early adopters of these devices, and the product testing that the device manufacturers say about the limitations of the devices, here's a quick summary:
When they are working, they are every bit as accurate as the generic strap HRM.
They typically work best when there is no wrist rotation, i.e. best for running.
Activities that will have problems include weightlifting, swimming, and possibly cycling (particularly if you change how you grip the handlebars).
The technology is still very new, so they are working on addressing those limitations.
I've got my eye on these devices, as it's difficult to keep from hitting your chest with certain movements in the weight room. Unfortunately for me, the technology isn't ready for what I do. Fortunately for you, it should handle running quite well.
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