Wrist heart rate monitor or heart rate monitor?

A fundamental aspect of physical activity is the monitoring of the heart rate under stress.
It is in the common interest, in fact, to have a device capable of recording this important data as correctly as possible.
Technology, fortunately, comes to our rescue thanks to a constant evolution capable of providing increasingly precise measurements.
However, when faced with a simple question such as “Is it better to have a watch with wrist heart rate or a heart rate monitor?” it is a good idea to articulate an answer that is as complete as possible and which takes into account all the aspects to be considered.

THE DIFFERENCES!

Wrist Cardio.
The wrist cardio sensor allows the heart rate to be measured by means of an optical sensor that analyses the volume of blood flowing through the veins. Under normal conditions, it has a very good measurement quality. However, as it is an optical reader, its accuracy can be affected by many factors such as the presence of hair, tattoos and layers of clothing, wrist size, type of activity (e.g. cycling) or skin colour.

Heart rate monitor.
The heart rate monitor reacts to electrical impulses from the heart, in the same way as an electrocardiogram. It should be worn correctly, at sternum height, and should be tightened properly, preventing it from slipping with sweat. It should also be moistened before starting the activity, for easier and more correct data transmission.

WHICH IS THE MOST ACCURATE INSTRUMENT?

Without further ado, it’s easy to say.
The heart rate monitor is always the most accurate tool for measuring heart rate!
Even the most accurate and sensitive of wrist heart rate sensors cannot compete with the accurate detection and immediate data transmission that a heart rate monitor can provide.

WHY WRIST HEART RATE MONITOR?

The convenience that wearing a simple watch with a wrist heart rate sensor can give us may, however, be a factor not to be overlooked. In fact, the latest generation of heart rate sensors guarantee increasingly precise and reliable detection and, although they do not reach the levels of the elastic band, they can come very close. All this without the potentially annoying bulk of the band.
In summer, for example, or in higher temperatures, the heart rate belt can create irritation due to rubbing and sweating. It is therefore advisable, in such cases, to use a good wrist heart rate sensor, such as those fitted on the most modern Garmin watches.

WHY THE HEART RATE MONITOR?

After these premises, it is quite clear that the elastic band is to be preferred for its global precision. Consequently, especially in the presence of specific training such as interval training, fartlek, repetitions or Conconi tests, it becomes a decidedly indispensable tool.
There are, moreover, different types: from the classic Hrm-Dual with Ant+ and Bluetooth connectivity, to the Hrm-Run, which can also record running dynamics, passing through theHrm-Swim (designed for use in the pool) and arriving at the more modern Hrm-Pro, ideal for triathlons and able to monitor both running and swimming dynamics (both in the pool and in open water) and which has replaced the previous Hrm-Tri.

Ultimately, it is always best to keep in mind what the real needs of those about to buy a Garmin device to monitor their heart rate may be. As we have seen, the merits of the heart-rate monitor can also be ‘overshadowed’ by the simplicity and convenience of using a wrist-mounted sensor, with technologies that are more and more advanced. Particularly if our activity level does not require such careful and scrupulous monitoring.

So now that we know a little more… discover your next best friend with MioMio Run!

Heart rate bands

Cardio wristwatches