These heart rate monitors help you achieve your fitness goals (2023)

Polar's H10 heart rate sensor is almost universally recognized as one of the best heart rate monitors money can buy. The chest strap is waterproof so you can wear it while swimming and has non-slip silicone dots that help it stay in place for accuracy and comfort.

It has a built-in memory for storing workout data, so you can leave your phone at home and download your data when you're done exercising. It has its own Polar Beat app, which can give you information about calories burned and fat in addition to heart rate, and is compatible with other apps and devices.

Another notable feature is that it can connect to two devices at once, so you can use it with your smartwatch and compatible workout equipment at the same time.

Important specifications

If budget is an issue, the HRM-Dual from the trusted Garmin brand is a solid choice. This heart rate monitor has everything you need - it's handy, accurate and connects to most machines and gym equipment - for a reasonable price.

It also has an extremely long battery life of an estimated 3.5 years if you use it for an hour a day. While it doesn't offer many bells and whistles, the HRM-Dual is compatible with most apps, so you can get the most out of your workout.

Important specifications

If you find an HRM chest strap uncomfortable, an armband is a good option, especially if you plan to use it for activities where an armband is pointless. The Wahoo Tickr Fit can be worn on the forearm or upper arm, with an optical sensor that delivers the same accuracy wherever you wear it.

It can be linked to Wahoo's Run Fit app, as well as other third-party apps such as Strava and Runtastic. You can connect it to your phone or smartwatch, as well as fitness equipment such as treadmills and exercise bikes, and view your real-time heart rate.

Important specifications

Another acclaimed heart monitor from Polar, the H9 offers comfort and accuracy similar to the H10, but without onboard storage or additional connectivity. (Only one device can be connected at a time.)

However, the price for this is lower, which is attractive to new users trying a heart rate monitor for the first time. It connects to the Polar Bear app (as well as other compatible apps and devices), which not only tracks your heart rate, but also offers exercise routines to help you improve your fitness.

Important specifications

Investing in the Garmin HRM-Pro can be worthwhile for serious athletes. This chest heart rate monitor has its own app for Android and iOS, but it is also compatible with other apps such as Strava. It's especially good for runners because it provides vertical oscillation, stride length, and contact time in addition to the standard stats.

The HRM-Pro can store up to 18 hours of data, giving you a few weeks before you need to download it to your phone. It can also connect to multiple devices at once if you want to connect to your smartwatch and the devices you use.

Important specifications

Not sure if you prefer a chest strap, bracelet or wrist heart rate monitor? The MyZone MZ-Switch is equipped with ECG and optical sensors, as well as adjustable chest, arm and wrist straps, so you can switch between them at will.

The HRM automatically detects how you wear it and selects the best sensor to use. It can store up to 36 hours of data before you need to connect to download it, and is compatible with most devices and apps in addition to its own, although many find it cumbersome.

Important specifications

While you could use any heart rate monitor with your Peloton device, it should come as no surprise that the most compatible HRM is Peloton's. This bracelet connects to your Peloton bike or treadmill to show your heart rate. However, it also has five LED lights that show your heart rate zone, which is useful for maximizing your workout.

They also correlate with your Strive Score, which Peloton describes as a "personal, non-competitive, heart rate-based measure" that measures how hard you're training. The band will work with non-Platon devices as long as they can connect via Bluetooth. However, there are probably better options if you don't own a Peloton device.

Important specifications