All heart rate monitors are not created equal. Some have features that are only limited to a watch and a heart rate monitor. Some have additional features to include calorie burned count and percentage of fat burned count. Higher end heart rate monitors have computer connectors for data uploading and easy reference. Some are with belt chest while some are strapless.
Some can store multiple data while some can store only one. But with these differences, a good heart rate monitors designed for fitness maintenance does not have to be very basic or very high-tech. It has to be functional and very suitable for the particular fitness demand.
Here are the things you should know when choosing heart rate monitor for fitness.
Basic features: Heart rate monitors most basic feature is its ability to measure the heart rate. And since they are usually worn on the wrist, heart rate monitors also acts as a sports watch. Some have backlights while some have none. Most are water resistant and shock resistant. These basic features might appear on every heart rate monitors on the market so you will not have any problem in these areas.
Expanded features: While it is advisable for beginners to get the basic heart rate monitor and work from there, others might be very eager to try higher-end heart rate monitors with calorie counters, built-in training program, and built-in trainer-like features that would guide user throughout the whole training, the choice is still up to you.
Other special heart rate monitor features include VO2, altitude measurement, average, lowest and maximum heart rate reading, and many more. Just make sure that you can use most of the features and not allow yourself to get confused on the complicated features and procedures of the heart rate monitor.
Memory: To be able to record the data of your previous training, you should need a heart rate monitor that has a good memory storage capacity. It is important to note that the lesser memory size can normally record 1 to 2 training sessions while heart rate monitors with large memory storage can record multiple heart rate data. If you need to have a record on your previous trainings better have a large memory storage heart rate monitor.
Computer compatibility: This might be a great tool to further monitor your fitness progress. All the data you record on the heart rate monitor can be uploaded on the computer. If you need this better have it.
These 4 are key things you should know on choosing heart rate monitor. Consider these and you can have a good device suited for your needs.