How accurate are the heart rate displays on cardio machines?
I was running on a new treadmill at my local gym yesterday, and I had really exerted myself and my breathing started getting a little out of control (I'm asthmatic, so I'm careful not to overdo). I slowed to a walk, and as I did so, I put my hands on the heart rate monitors, and ... according to the display, my heart rate was at only 112, but I know from monitoring it at other times, at a similar intensity, it has shown 180+. Huh?I've noticed before that my heart rate fluctuates considerably depending on the day, but never looked into it. Yesterday, though, it made me realize that I really have no idea what heart rate I reach at my peak, and what I maintain.
Gallery: Heart monitors
If you want to actually monitor your heart rate, you'll need to get a personal heart rate monitor. Fortunately, there are loads of options in tons of price ranges, so you should be able to find something that works for you. I'm hoping to find one for myself, too, so if you have a recommendation, leave it in the comments!
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
4-16-2008 @ 11:16AM
RK said...
Not only are the heart rates given on the machines not accurate, they don't have enough information to give you an accurate calorie count. Heart Rate Monitors will have your own personal information (male/female; height; weight; age; and resting heart rate) so you will get a more accurate number. I have the Polar F4 and have used it almost daily for the last year and a half - I love it.
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