Introduction to Heart Rate Monitors

Using a heart rate monitor during workout has become the latest trend for sport circles. Why? Because it can determine the efficiency and impact of an individual’s training through his/her heart rate for a specific activity.

Our body uses oxygen to fuel our cells and generate energy. When there is an increase in the activity, the demand for oxygen also rises. The heart compensates with this by increasing the rate of its pumping to effectively deliver adequate amount of oxygen to vital tissues. As one increases his exercise intensity, the heart rate also increases. Over time, the body begins to adapt to this and will require you to work harder to improve your cardiovascular and muscular performance. To prevent over and under-training, a device called a heart rate monitor determines whether you are working out with the intensity that is appropriate for you.

Heart rate monitors allows immediate feedback about a person’s training effort.  It uses the same technology like that of the electrocardiogram—electrodes attached to the chest by means of straps or microprocessor fabrics that monitor the electric signal emitted by the heart for each beat. The electrodes deliver the signal wirelessly to a receiver that can be worn by the user. Some models do almost all calculations needed and identify whether you are training on the right level.

The great thing about modern heart monitors is that it gives you real time and reliable objective results rather than based on your feelings. Other than counting heart rates per minute, it also includes a number of features. Calorie expenditure can be estimated by some heart rate monitors. Additional accessories, such as foot pods, are available depending on its usage.

In the past, most athletes were used to extreme exercise, pushing themselves to the limit, and eventually suffer from exhaustion, injuries, and medical disorders. But with the arrival of heart rate monitors, improving athletic performance can now be done safely.