Identification
Heart rate monitors are usually very small devices, about the size of a wristwatch, that track the pulse of the wearer in real time. Some store heart rate data, make estimates of calories burned, and might even provide GPS information.
Benefits
Before the heart rate monitor, the only way for an athlete to track his heart rate was to do it himself, either at his wrist or neck. This method is awkward and imprecise.
Purpose
Checking a heart rate aids in cardiovascular conditioning. If an athlete is aware that his heart rate is slowing, it means he has either improved his conditioning and can take his training up a notch, or he is not working as hard as he needs to and should pick up the pace.
Wrist Model
A common heart monitor wraps around the wrist and both monitors a heart rate and serves as a watch. These types collect data from direct contact with the pulse point running through the wrist.
Chest Model
The chest model is strapped around the chest and under the shirt, since a heart rate monitor needs direct contact with the skin to work.
Users
Athletes who can make good use of heart rate monitors include runners, racing cyclists, mountain bikers, boxers, basketball players and soccer players.
Article Written By Edwin Thomas
Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.
