How Accurate Is A Heart Rate Monitor?
One of the biggest concerns about using heart rate monitors for exercising is that they may not be very accurate. That is actually more a myth than fact. The accuracy of the heart rate monitor depends on many factors and it is usually up to you to ensure the accuracy of the device. If you use the device correctly you should be able to get very accurate results.
The first modern heart rate monitor for personal use was invented in 1977. It was modeled after the EKG and made to be just as accurate. This first monitor was used on a cross country skiing team to help them with their training.
Since the time of the first heart rate monitor, all subsequent monitors made have aimed for only the highest accuracy, since precise readings are an essential feature of such a device. In fact, heart rate monitors are pointless to have if not accurate since you can also get the pulse rate manually. Any inaccuracies of the devices would have been quickly noticed.
The heart rate monitor is meant to make the process of keeping track of heart rates as easy as possible and to also help you be sure that your workouts are optimal and not overly strenuous. If the device is not able to provide accurate readings, then there would be no point in having one.
With heart rate monitors being a top selling fitness device, there has to be something right with them. If they were inaccurate then everyone would know and people would stop buying them. However, there have been some problems reported with the accuracy of some heart rate monitors. These reports, though, have prompted changes and advancement in the newer monitors now on the market.
One of the biggest problems with early models was that electromagnetic waves from other electronic equipment would interfere with the heart rate monitor. This would result in readings that were not accurate. However, this is not an issue anymore since almost all newer models have a built-in feature capable of blocking this interference.
Another common issue is user error. If you are not using the monitor correctly or not putting it on right then you could end up with inaccurate results. It is important to read all literature that comes with the monitor so you understand how to properly use it.
Finally, make sure that you purchase the right kind of heart rate monitor. Usually the chest band models are the most accurate, but there are also many other styles and it is possible that one of them will be more suitable for you. The only way to know is to test the different models in advance, such as at a gym, and determine which provides you with the most accurate results.
For a wide selection of quality heart rate monitors, stop by Bodytronics for good advice on polar heart rate monitors.