Instructions for How to Install an Accurate Heart Monitor
A typical heart monitor consists of two parts --- the chest strap and the wrist watch that display the rate of your heart beats. Some companies sell wireless heart rate monitors, which consist of just the chest strap. The wireless monitor works only in conjunction with a cardio machine such as the treadmill or an elliptical machine with a built-in heart rate display in the dashboard. The smart exerciser invests in the two-part monitor because this works everywhere and ensures the most accurate heart rate reading. While using a cardio machine, this exerciser can compare dashboard readings with the ones on the watch.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Ensure the chest strap is clean and that the battery in the watch has been used less than 2,500 hours. (Reference 1) Moisten the wide part of the chest strap --- the transmitter --- with water before putting it on. The logo should be right side up. The transmitter works only when wet and, most likely, you have yet to break a sweat.
-
2
Secure the chest strap right below the chest muscle so it runs horizontally over the heart. "The elastic strap should stretch at least 4 to 6 inches and the logo should be in a central, upright position," according to Sark Products. Adjust the strap so it fits your rib cage properly. Extra-large straps are available in most sporting goods stores or websites.
-
-
3
Set the watch to your target zones. Your target zone is the lower and upper heart rate range within which your heart rate should remain while you work out. (Reference 2) The Sark Products company website "recommends 120 for the low limit and 150 for the high limit for new users with no cardiac problems." While this guideline is good for beginners, know that target zones apply differently depending on the goal of the exerciser. Someone who wishes to burn as many calories as possible or just improve her cardiovascular capability should strive for the upper limits of the zone, while someone who desires only to achieve minor health benefits should stay closer to the lower zone.
-
4
Attach the watch to your wrist as you would any other watch. Push the button that starts the heart rate monitor. Most watches will display a heart-shaped icon. To be safe, follow closely the instructions that came with your purchase.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Make sure you do not exercise within 3 yards of any other sources of electromagnetic interference such as cell phones, TVs or other heart monitor users because these may interfere with your readings.
References
- Photo Credit shirtless runner image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
