How Do Strapless Heart Rate Monitors Work?
Seasoned runners and other athletes know the benefit of using a heart rate monitor when performing. Depending on the model, these devices can track heart rate levels and calories burned as well as time a workout and provide information on the distance run or walked. Traditionally, heart rate monitors have had two parts: a transmitter (chest strap) and a receiver (typically a digital watch). Athletes now have the option of a strapless model.
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Losing the Strap
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Strapless heart rate monitor models are often watches. In a traditional heart rate monitor, the chest strap monitors electric current from the heart and transmits that information to the receiver display, or watch. Most strapless heart rate monitors include smaller transmitters located on the watch itself. In some models, these transmitters must be touched with the fingers to calculate heart rate. Other models can strap onto the upper arm or be held in-hand during a workout.
Benefits of Strapless Models
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Since strapless heart rate monitors do not require a chest strap, they can be more convenient than their conventional counterparts. Chest straps often have to we wetted with sweat or saliva in order to accurately read electric heart currents. Additionally, a reading from a chest strap can be inaccurate if the strap is ill-fitting or it reacts adversely to the fabric worn above it.
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Problems With Strapless Monitors
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Without a chest strap, it becomes more difficult to receive a constant reading of the heart rate. Since many of the models require the user to touch the sensor, users receive only intermittent readings. This can be troublesome for serious athletes, who monitor their entire workouts. It also does not allow for an accurate count of calories burned, since the heart rate is measured sporadically.
Pay for Quality
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The higher-quality a strapless heat rate monitor is, the more expensive it is. Often, the more expensive versions use better technology to ensure a more accurate and continuous read. If being fully aware of your fitness condition is the goal, a higher-tech strapless heart rate monitor is worth the investment.
Multifunctions
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Strapless heart rate monitors can provide valuable workout information. High-quality strapless heart rate monitors can give users much more than a constant heart rate read. Many new models also provide GPS information, track terrain and convert metabolic rate into calories burned. Some even gauge the user's heart rate maximum and provide an output percentage during a workout. Read product reviews and capability functions before choosing the right strapless heart rate monitor.
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References
- Photo Credit young girl dance exercises image by david hughes from Fotolia.com Crown of a digital wrist watch image by GenerImageN from Fotolia.com fitness 11 image by Nathalie P from Fotolia.com
