Hand pulse meter instructions for use. Sports watches with a heart rate monitor: "The Devil's Dozen" tips for choosing and buying

Smartwatches are becoming more and more popular every day. A compact electronic gadget captivates with its versatility. From items for the elite, smartwatches are confidently moving into the category of must-have accessories. Supplemented with heart rate sensors, smart watch and bracelets offered users even more options.

A heart rate monitor with an optical sensor is popular with athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. When choosing it, you should pay attention to the type of sensor. Chest belt models, until recently, were the most common and were considered as accurate as possible. But in recent years, they have been actively replaced by watches with an optical heart rate monitor.

What is an optical heart rate monitor and why is it convenient?

An optical heart rate monitor illuminates the skin with a light beam. According to the pulsation of blood passing through the blood vessels, the frequency of contraction of the heart muscle is calculated. What is special about heart rate monitors with an optical sensor, what are their pros and cons?

Their main and indisputable advantage is convenience. The best optical heart rate monitors are traditionally integrated into a wristband. In the vast majority of cases, manufacturers try not to limit themselves to one heart rate sensor. Fitness bracelets and smartwatches offer the owner a standard set of sports statistics, they can interface with mobile devices are synced with apps.

Modern manufacturers have improved the technology of taking readings so much that they confidently claim that a wrist gadget is the most accurate optical heart rate monitor. The developers managed to fix almost all the shortcomings of the first generation wrist heart rate monitors. In many ways, this became possible due to the fact that the devices integrate the latest optical heart rate monitor, the principle of which is based on the best biomedical technologies.

And sports from SMA allow you to monitor your health and be always in touch. Smart devices will remind you that the owner has overstayed, wake up in the morning with a quiet vibration signal. And with their help, you can remotely control the camera of your smartphone. The fitness tracker measures the pulse every 15 minutes and at the same time works on a single charge for 5 days. He discerns different types sports and sleep tracking.

The MIO collection has many wrist devices with a heart rate monitor. With them, the user can control the work of their cardiovascular system during rest and training. The accuracy of measurements and their second generation are comparable to professional medical equipment. The devices use not one, but two light beams and proprietary algorithms. You can swim in the bracelet. also waterproof, but designed specifically for cyclists. positioned as the most accurate heart rate monitor on the market. And so “smart” that it will help the owner avoid diseases, become more active, healthier and happier.

It differs from other heart rate monitors not only in its original design. The gadget counts steps, heart rate, tracks training data, calculates the user's fitness level, analyzes his activity and makes personalized tips and recommendations.

The watch is designed specifically for runners. In addition to the full range of fitness features, the gadget is distinguished by an affordable price, the presence of a GPS module and a collection of interchangeable straps. The model is universal. It is an accessory for daily use. Smart watches are stylish appearance and capacitive battery.

Smart watches or bracelets with a heart rate monitor clearly take readings not only at rest, but also during intense exercise. They eliminated the need for chest straps. In order to count the pulse, a person does not need to stop. On the inside of the body of the heart rate monitor is an electronic optical element that measures the pulse using a narrow light beam. The software block records the amount of light scattered in the bloodstream and calculates the pulse rate. To achieve maximum absorption, optical heart rate monitors use a green LED with a value of 525 nm. Many manufacturers offer strap bracelets of different styles and designs, into which a heart rate monitor with an optical sensor is inserted, you can buy them separately and change them depending on your mood and situation.

When using wrist heart rate monitors, it should be remembered that the device will give the result with an error in case of a loose fit to the skin. Low temperatures can also lead to inaccurate heart rate measurements. And, of course, you should not wear a wrist heart rate monitor over clothing.

If you play sports, want to lose weight, or just carefully monitor your health, then the topic of heart rate monitors should be of interest to you. The first such gadgets for domestic use began to be produced back in the 80s. Since then, they have been actively exploited by athletes who want to monitor the work of their own heart, because this is important both in terms of health and to achieve maximum efficiency workouts. Today we will try to figure out how to choose a heart rate monitor, what to look for, and also find out which are the best heart rate monitors on the market.

Why do you need a heart rate monitor?

The name of this device tells us one obvious thing. A heart rate monitor is needed to measure the pulse, i.e. monitor the heart rate in real time, record peak loads and respond to them in a certain way. For each type of physical activity, there is an optimal heart rate, and if you want training to be beneficial, not harmful to health and lead to the achievement of your goals, then your heart rate must not go beyond certain values. The range of these values ​​is called target area.

Target zones and the maximum allowable heart rate are calculated according to the method of Martti Karvonen, a Finnish physician. According to his method , maximum heart rate(MHR) = (220 - age). If you are 20 years old, then the MHR will be 200 beats / min, if you are 40 - 180 beats / min, etc.

There are such target areas:

• 50-60% of the MHR is a zone of light loads that help improve physical fitness and recover from training;
• 60-70% of the MHR is a “therapeutic zone”, light loads for poorly trained athletes. With such a pulse, a morning workout or a walk at a fast pace takes place. Loads with such a pulse can improve endurance and burn fat;
• 70-80% of the MHR is the "fitness" zone. Such a pulse is typical for jogging, climbing stairs. Training in this target zone promotes fat burning and weight loss;
• 80-90% of the MHR is the "aerobic zone". With such a pulse, not only fats are burned, but also carbohydrates, maximum results are achieved. Such a pulse is typical for sports dancing;
• 90-95% of the MHR is the “anaerobic zone”, carbohydrates are consumed and endurance is trained. Cycling, skating, skiing and other active sports activities take place in this target area;
• above 95% of the MHR - the zone of maximum load, intended only for professional athletes. For ordinary people, these are too high and very dangerous loads.

Heart rate monitors usually count the heart rate in real time, report the transition from one zone to another, and show the maximum heart rate values.

Types of heart rate monitors

All heart rate monitors on the market, and there are many of them, can be divided into two types:

• with remote or external sensor;
• with built-in sensor.

The first group includes heart rate monitors, which collect heart rate information and transfer it for processing to another device(smartphone, fitness bracelet, computer). These include the following types of heart rate monitors:

The external sensor can transmit analog type signal, thanks to which the data can be read by the simulator or smartphone. But during group training, the reader can pick up a signal from someone else's heart rate monitor, and near power lines, the heart rate monitor can fail completely. Sensor digital type will not be able to transmit data to the simulator, but is not afraid of interference and transmits more accurate data.

Most sensors today use data transfer technology Bluetooth. In more expensive devices may meet technology ANT+, which ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, and in terms of economy, this technology wins.

There is gadgets with built-in heart rate monitor. They themselves measure the pulse and process the received data. For constant training, this option is not very suitable - rather for one-time measurements, but there are exceptions. This group of devices includes a fitness bracelet and a heart rate monitor ring.

Additional functions of heart rate monitors

In addition to measuring heart rate, heart rate monitors, depending on the model, may also have a set of additional functions, among which are the following:

• calculation of speed and distance covered;
• counting calories. It is carried out on the basis of pulse data, i.e. with a large share of conventionality, but still interesting;
• keeping a history of training;
• laps, lap time and average heart rate. The function will be of interest to those who drive or run the same distance during a workout and want to monitor the results;
• target zones. The simplest model will calculate three target zones based on your age and gender, more expensive models - 5-6 zones;
• sound signal or vibration when moving from one zone to another. The function is necessary for those who do not want to go beyond certain heart rate values;
• fitness test. Interesting feature For those just getting started on the training path. This is something like an entrance test by a fitness trainer and determining your form;
• recovery mode. Allows you to detect the time during which the pulse returns to normal after sports. Interesting for those who are engaged in interval training and sprint;
• the function of displaying the time, the current heart rate, as well as an alarm clock, a timer and a stopwatch is available in all heart rate monitors with a screen;
• Most models have synchronization with a smartphone, fitness bracelet and computer. Some can even sync with action cameras;
• built-in GPS module allows you to accurately determine the distance traveled, speed, slopes, ascents and descents.

Separately, we note waterproof models that will be useful for training in the pools. As a rule, heart rate monitors are powered by their own batteries, but there are models with disposable batteries. You will have to change them less often than recharge the battery.

The best heart rate monitors

POLAR H10

Company POLAR is a pioneer in home heart rate monitors. Since the release of the first
more than 30 years have passed since then, and today the manufacturer boasts an impressive range and a number of its own developments. Among the new products, one can single out the POLAR H10 chest heart rate monitor. It replaced the POLAR H7, which was a great success.

The sensor is attached to an elastic band made of polyamide, polyurethane, elastane and polyester. Silicone dots on it prevent slipping, a convenient clasp allows you to securely fix the gadget, and built-in belt additional electrodes reduce the measurement error due to interference prevention. The sensor itself weighs 21 g, the belt another 39 g. Total 60g, which is 20 g less than the POLAR H7. At the same time, the company managed to build a battery twice as capacious into the sensor. Now it's enough for 400 hours of training. The sensor operates in the temperature range from -10 to +50 0 C, allows you to dive on depth up to 30 meters.

The model did not receive its own screen - it transmits all data to a smartphone (in a special application) or a fitness bracelet when Bluetooth assistance, at a frequency of 5 kHz. Moreover, she had the opportunity transmit heart rate data to camerasgopro. Now you can overlay heart rate data on the video of action scenes - it will turn out even more effectively and spectacularly. Another feature of the model is the built-in memory for one workout. If there is no smartphone with you or there is no way to take it with you to training, then the sensor will record everything in its own memory. You can buy a gadget for 6390 rubles in the Inspector Gadgets store at the link.

POLAR OH1

Another interesting gadget from a well-known company. The device is intended for attachments on the forearm, hand or wrist, equipped with a 6-diode optical sensor, does not have its own screen - all data is transmitted to a smartphone in a special application via Bluetooth. In wearing, the heart rate monitor is very comfortable, does not restrict movement, the belt is adjusted smoothly.

fit in a small sensor memory for 200 hours of training, operating time without recharging - 12 hours. The model can be safely recommended to those who are engaged in swimming, since water resistance is maintained at a depth of up to 30 meters. The model costs about 5600 rubles.

Garmin Hrm Tri

A very high-quality heart rate monitor from a company that knows a lot about fitness gadgets. The tracker is mounted on the chest with a comfortable strap, transmits data to the paired watch using ANT+. Supported synchronization with most watch modelsGarmin. Since ANT+ data transmission is not possible in water, the sensor stores all data in its own memory, and then, when the pool session is over, it transmits it to the watch. Memory is enough for 20 hours of recording.

In addition to heart rate, sensor Measures cadence, vertical oscillation and ground contact time. The capabilities of the standard application are quite extensive. This is not only the collection of your own results and training planning, but also the ability to share achievements with other users. It costs about 7500 rubles.

Sigma PC 15.11

One of the most popular analog heart rate monitors. The set consists of a watch, which is distinguished by a waterproof case, and a chest strap sensor that takes heart rate data and transmits information to the watch in an analog way.

The gadget measures the average, normal and maximum heart rate, immediately displays the data on the screen, and in which case, gives sound or light warning signals. The heart rate monitor can count target zones, workout time, laps and calories. A bonus is the function of the usual clock, stopwatch and date. Backlighting is used to view information in the dark. The model costs about 4000 and causes only positive emotions in athletes.

Wahoo Fitness TICKR X

The new series of heart rate monitors from Wahoo Fitness turned out to be perfectly balanced in all respects. The sensor in TICKR X on the chest strap allows you to analyze heart rate and movement patterns, drawing conclusions not only about the intensity of the workout, but also about its correctness. Data can be transferred via Bluetooth and ANT+.

The gadget captures heart rate, counts the number of calories burned determines the duration of training, as well as a number of other important indicators for athletes, including cadence in cycling, vertical oscillation and ground contact time for running, etc. The sensor has built-in memory, but can sync with a smartphone and send data to popular fitness apps. There is also its own application that helps you choose the right workout to achieve your goals. Another advantage is that it is water resistant, although only at a depth of 1.5 m, so this is not an option for swimmers. This functional heart rate monitor costs about 4,700 rubles.

Nexx HRM-02

One of the best deals on the market. The model is perfect for those who are just starting to play sports. Too extensive functionality of the heart rate monitor will only interfere, and in this gadget there are at least a few possibilities. The sensor is attached to the chest on an elastic strap and transmits data to the smartphone. gadget compatible with most popular fitness apps. The disadvantage of the model is that it does not work with Samsung devices based on Android 5.1, but even this does not make this workhorse less attractive, especially considering the price of 1500 rubles.

Ozaki O!Fitness Fatburn

Another inexpensive chest heart rate monitor. Made in China, transmits data via Bluetooth, can count calories burned and steps. In addition, the model is able to notify the user when the heart rate becomes high. Interesting feature models - the presence of a voice fitness instructor. The gadget has its own application, with which you can create an individual training plan. The minus of the model is a rather large weight (140 g), when compared with analogues, but the price does not bite - about 1050 rubles.

The variety of heart rate monitors can confuse even sophisticated athletes - a large number of manufacturers are now mastering the market of sports watches and fitness trackers. However, despite the variety of offers, all heart rate monitors are similar in their principle of operation.

Cardiosignal

Our heart has electrical activity - however, other organs also have it, but that's another story. It was the heart that was the first organ whose activity was accurately measured using special instruments - this was back in 1902. Since then, technology has changed a lot and now the device for changing the pulse weighs less than 100 grams instead of the initial 270 kg (!).

So, the chest strap of a heart rate monitor usually has 2 electrodes and a transmitter that transmits data to devices - a watch, a phone or a tablet.

The accuracy of such measurements is very high - manufacturers claim 99% agreement with ECG data. The data obtained in this way usually makes it possible to analyze not only heart rate data, but also R-R intervals, which can also be useful.

The disadvantage of this method of measuring the pulse is the need to wear a sensor, as well as the fact that from time to time it will run out of battery - it should not be changed often, but nevertheless.

It is this method of measuring the pulse that is preferred by all seriously trained athletes, both professionals and amateurs.

But progress does not stand still, and in recent years, other methods of measuring the pulse that do not require wearing a tape, such as plethysmography, have become popular.

Plethysmography

This mysterious word means a method of studying blood flow, based on the registration of fluctuations in the volume of any part of the body, associated with the dynamics of blood filling of blood vessels.

In sports gadgets, photoplethysmography is mainly used - that is, the filling of blood vessels is recorded using an optical sensor.

It happens like this - one part of the sensor, the emitter, "shines through" the desired part of the body, and the other part receives the signal reflected from the tissues. Vasoconstriction and dilation caused by arterial pulsation will change the characteristics of the reflected signal.

On the this moment there are several ways to implement the technology (note that here we are talking about proven manufacturers and mass-produced devices).

The first is the measurement of the pulse in the auricle, which is offered by the Jabra brand. To measure the pulse, you need to insert a special Jabra Pulse model earphone into your ear, which, in addition to measuring the pulse, will play music from your player or smartphone, and also give you voice prompts about the progress of your workout or about incoming calls.

The device can transmit the pulse both to a smartphone and to a watch that works with Bluetooth Smart - Polar V800, for example.

The second implementation option is to measure the pulse from the location of the watch, that is, from the wrist.

Many manufacturers of sports gadgets are actively using this technology, and Polar was no exception - in 2015, watches saw the light of day. The watch is a synthesis of a fitness tracker and a sports watch, measures the pulse from the wrist, but is also friendly with a chest strap - if you need very accurate heart rate data.

Disadvantages of optical sensors

The technology is not yet perfect, but meets the needs of most amateur athletes in the world.

The accuracy of the displayed data is affected by the ambient temperature - the device may “lie” a little in the cold.

In addition, during particularly intensive movements, for example, during sharp running accelerations, the sensor moves slightly on the arm, shakes - the result may be incorrect heart rate data.

Also, a sharp jump in heart rate during exercise can lead to incorrect readings - our tests have shown that optical sensors do not cope very well with such situations.

To obtain accurate data, the strap of such a watch must be tightly pressed in the user's hand - otherwise the receiving sensor simply will not be able to accurately receive the reflected signal.

However, for everyday heart rate measurement, as well as for moderate-intensity training, such a watch is quite a suitable option.

Results

So, if you are a lover of a healthy lifestyle and your physical activity does without working at the limit of your capabilities, explosive accelerations and very sharp movements, you may well use a gadget with an optical sensor, such as Jabra or.

If your workouts include serious work involving hard accelerations, jolting (mountain bike or trail biking for example), you train in cold weather - we advise you to use the good old chest strap. By the way, you can use the A360 along with a chest strap, putting it on for serious workouts, and using the optical sensor the rest of the time.

And we are waiting for new technologies and proposals from manufacturers!

Reading time: 21 minutes

The heart rate monitor is measuring device, which determines the heart rate. It is also called a heart rate monitor.

Heart rate monitor use to control the work of the heart, analyze the load, determine the zones of the pulse and go beyond these zones. A wide variety of models for monitoring heart rate are sold on the sports paraphernalia market. Let's see what a heart rate monitor is for, what are its advantages and benefits, how to choose it, and also consider the most popular models heart rate monitors on the market.

Heart rate monitor: what is it for and what are the benefits

If you need information about the work of your heart during a workout, then such a device as a heart rate monitor is a must for you. During exercise, the heart rate monitor helps maintain desired value heart rate, measures the number of calories burned and monitors the work of the heart and the load. Most often, the heart rate monitor is used during interval and cardio workouts, but during power loads it will not be superfluous at all. In addition, the heart rate monitor can be used during daily activities to monitor the work of the heart.

Who needs a heart rate monitor?

• Those who do cardio training for weight loss or endurance development.
• For those who practice high intensity interval training (HIIT).
• Those who have heart problems and need to control their heart rate.
• Those who want to control the number of calories burned during training.
• And also for those who want to regularly improve their results without harm to health.

Why do you need to measure your heart rate during a workout? Depending on your pulse or heart rate (HR for short), your body will use different sources of energy. Based on this, there are several load zones that determine the effectiveness of your workout:

The indicated percentage is taken from the value of the maximum heart rate. To calculate it, we use the formula: Maximum heart rate = 220 - age.

Accordingly, in order for the body to use fatty acids as a source, it is enough to keep the pulse in the zone of 60-70% of the maximum heart rate. For example, if you are 30 years old, then the following calculations apply to calculate your possible heart rate range:

• Lower threshold \u003d (220-30) * 0.6 \u003d 114
• Upper threshold \u003d (220-30) * 0.7 \u003d 133

With this pulse (114-133 bpm) you can practice long time maintaining a steady pace. In this case, the load will be aerobic, that is, using oxygen. Such cardio workouts help burn fat and train the heart.

If you are doing high-intensity interval training (for example, training according to the Tabata protocol), then at the peak moments your heart rate should be in the anaerobic zone, i.e. 80-90% of maximum heart rate:

• Lower threshold \u003d (220-30) * 0.8 \u003d 152
• Upper threshold \u003d (220-30) * 0.9 \u003d 171

The heart rate monitor helps you monitor your heart rate and keep it in the zone that meets your requirements. If the heart rate monitor model allows, then you can set the heart rate zones you are interested in, and you will be notified when your heart rate leaves the specified zone.

Advantages of the heart rate monitor:

• The heart rate monitor protects the heart from overloading during exercise because you control the heart rate value.
• You will work out in the heart rate zone you need - for fat burning or endurance, depending on your goals, which means you train more efficiently.
• With a heart rate monitor, it is easy to track your progress, analyze the level of load and its perception by the body.
• You will know exactly how many calories burned during your workout.
• You can use the heart rate monitor during your normal daily activities to assess your body's performance or monitor stress.
• The heart rate monitor is indispensable while running or brisk walking on the street, when there are no other sources to determine the level of load.

Many cardio machines already have a built-in heart rate monitor. But firstly, such heart rate monitors show inaccurate data, which is better not to focus on. Secondly, to fix the data, you need to hold on to the handles while running or walking, which is not always convenient. Therefore, if you want to get the most accurate data on heart rate and calories, then it is better to purchase a heart rate monitor.

You can also use manual heart rate monitoring. To do this, you need to stop and count the beats, fixing the received values. However, additional manipulations during training are not always convenient, and the obtained values ​​will have a strong error. In addition, constant stops lower your heart rate, which disrupts the rhythm of the session. That is why the heart rate monitor is indispensable: it will record data instantly throughout the entire workout.

The main functions of the heart rate monitor:

• Monitoring of heart rate (HR)
• Setting the heart rate zone
• Notification of a change in heart rate zone with sound or vibration
• Calculation of average and maximum heart rate
• Calorie counter
• Time and date display
• Stopwatch, timer

Some heart rate monitors have additional features: GPS navigation, alarm clock, pedometer, training history, automatic calculation of training zones, fitness test, calculation of heart rate for a separate lap (useful for runners), synchronization with applications and a computer. The more features a device has, the more expensive it is.

Types of heart rate monitors

Heart rate monitors can be divided into 2 large groups: chest(using a chest strap) and carpal. Heart rate monitor with chest strap enjoys b O more popular among those involved, but thanks to new technologies, models have appeared that allow you to accurately measure your heart rate even without a chest sensor.

A chest heart rate monitor is a sensor with electrodes that is worn under the chest and transmits data to a watch receiver or a mobile application. There are two types of models of chest heart rate monitors, which differ in configuration:

• Heart rate monitor without clock-receiver. In this case, the data is transferred to the smartphone via Bluetooth Smart technology. The sensor is synchronized with special applications in a smartphone, where all the necessary information about heart rate and calories burned is automatically stored. This is handy for training analysis as the app keeps the entire history of the data. Most often, heart rate monitors are synchronized with applications in operating rooms. Android systems and iOS.
• Heart rate monitor with watch-receiver. In this case, the sensor sends the data to the receiver watch, where it is processed and you can see it on the screen. Such models are more expensive, but also more convenient. You do not need to additionally use a smartphone, all information will be displayed on the watch. For example, it is more convenient to use such heart rate monitors on the street.

If you purchase a heart rate monitor with a watch-applicant, then also pay attention to the type of data transfer. There are two types of data transfer from the chest strap to the watch:

• Analog (non-coded) type of data transmission. May be subject to radio interference. It is considered less accurate, but if there is an error, then it is very small. The analog heart rate monitor can sync with cardio equipment by picking up heart rate data from your belt. However, if someone in your immediate vicinity (within a meter) is using a heart rate monitor with the same type of data transmission, for example, in a group workout, interference may occur.
• Digital (coded) type of data transmission. More expensive and more accurate type of data transmission, not subject to interference. However, a digital heart rate monitor cannot be synchronized with exercise machines.

Both analog and digital heart rate monitors are quite accurate, so the type of data transfer does not play a key role when choosing a heart rate monitor. It does not make sense to overpay for a digital type of data transfer.

Wrist heart rate monitors

The convenience of wrist heart rate monitors is that you do not need to wear a chest strap with a sensor. To measure data, you only need a watch that is worn on the wrist. However, this version of heart rate monitors has a number of features and disadvantages, so despite the apparent convenience, wrist heart rate monitors are still less popular.

There are two types of wrist heart rate monitors that differ in how heart rate is monitored:

• Pulse is measured when fingers and touch touch on the front of the device. You simply put the heart rate monitor on your wrist, touch it, and the device gives you heart rate values. The disadvantage of such monitoring is that you will measure the pulse not for a certain period of time, but on demand, only after the fingers and the electrodes on the case come into contact. Such a heart rate monitor is more suitable for hiking, mountaineering, or for those who, due to health restrictions, are forced to periodically monitor the pulse zone.
• Pulse is measured using tracking behind the blood vessels. The principle of operation of such heart rate monitors is as follows: you put the bracelet on your hand, the LEDs shine through the skin, optical sensor measures vasoconstriction and the sensor displays the obtained values ​​on the watch screen. But the disadvantages of such devices are also obvious. For data accuracy, the strap must be tightly tightened on the wrist, which is not always convenient during training. Also, heavy sweating or rainy weather may interfere with sensor performance.

Of course, a watch is more familiar equipment than a chest strap. Therefore, if you are uncomfortable wearing a belt under your chest, we recommend purchasing the second version of the wrist heart rate monitor. But discomfort and inconvenience is perhaps the only argument in favor of a wrist heart rate monitor. Most trainees still opt for a heart rate monitor with a chest strap because of the convenience and accuracy of the data.

Prices for a heart rate monitor are determined by the following parameters:

• Manufacturing company
• Type of heart rate monitor: chest or wrist
• Options: is there a receiver watch, interchangeable straps, cases, etc.
• Data transfer type: analog or digital
• Moisture protection
• Belt, its width, quality, ease of fastening
• The quality of the watch-receiver case
• Availability of additional functions

Heart rate monitors: a selection of the best models

We offer you a selection of models of heart rate monitors with brief description, prices and pictures. Based on this review, you will be able to choose the right heart rate monitor for you. Prices are based on Yandex Market data as of September 2017 and may differ from the cost of a heart rate monitor in your store.

Sigma heart rate monitors

Popular models of Sigma heart rate monitors are developed by a Taiwanese manufacturer. Among heart rate monitors, Sigma is considered one of the market leaders, their models are almost ideal in terms of price and quality. They mainly offer models of heart rate monitors with a chest strap and watch:

• Sigma PC 3.11: the most primitive model with basic function counting the heart rate. Calories are not counted.
• Sigma PC 10.11: The optimal model with all the necessary basic functions, including calculation of the average and maximum heart rate, calorie counter, sound signal when the target heart rate zone is violated.
• Sigma PC 15.11: This model is suitable for runners, as it adds features such as lap counter, average and maximum heart rate per lap, calories burned per lap, time per lap.
• Sigma PC 22.13: This uses a heart rate monitor digital transmission data, so its price is a bit more expensive. The model is offered in several body colors. The functions are standard: calculation of average and maximum heart rate, calorie counter, zone indicator, sound signal when the target heart rate zone is violated.
• Sigma PC 26.14: model similar to the previous one, but with the addition of new features. For example, this device has a lap counter, an automated function for calculating the target zone, a memory for 7 training sessions, totals per week.

Polar heart rate monitors

Polar is one of the most well-known brands in the heart rate monitor market. Polar produces quality devices, but their price is much higher. You can purchase a chest strap with a sensor that will transmit data to your smartphone, or a set of a strap and watch receiver for more convenient data tracking.

Chest straps with sensor:

• Polar H1 Features: GymLink communication interface, Android and iOs support, waterproof.
• Polar H7: GymLink and Blutooth Smart communication interfaces, Android and iOs support, moisture protection.
• Polar H10: A new generation of heart rate monitors that replaced the H7, one of the most popular heart rate monitor models.

Chest heart rate monitor with watch included:

• Polar A300: besides standard features this device also has many additional "chips": a pedometer, sleep monitoring, a reminder function, goal setting, an accelerometer. It is also possible to connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth.
• Polar FT60: this model includes a calorie counter function, as well as a number of auxiliary, but very convenient and useful features, such as: alarm clock, second time zone, low battery indicator, button lock from accidental pressing.
• Polar M430: Another very versatile gadget, waterproof, with GPS navigation and backlight. Added a notification function for incoming calls, received messages and notifications from applications for social networks GPS.

Beurer heart rate monitors

This brand includes models of heart rate monitors with a chest strap and models in which you need to touch the sensor of the device to measure data. For training, we recommend choosing heart rate monitors with a chest strap, it is more convenient and practical.

• Beurer PM25: simple and convenient model, there are all important functions, for example, a built-in calendar, clock, alarm clock, stopwatch, calorie counter, notification when leaving the training zone.
• Beurer PM45: Same feature set as PM25, but add interchangeable straps, bike mount, storage case.
• Beurer PM15: this is a wrist heart rate monitor with a touch of the sensor, the device controls the heart rate, notifies you when you leave the training zone, but does not count calories. Price: 3200 rubles.

Suunto heart rate monitors

Another well-known company in the sports equipment market, which produces a series of sports watches with the ability to measure heart rate. Suunto offers chest straps and chest straps with your watch:

• Suunto Comfort Belt: chest strap suitable for all T-series sports watches and computers that can be used as a heart rate monitor.
• Suunto Smart Belt: chest strap with Bluetooth technology smart. Compatible with Suunto's Movescount app.
• Suunto M2: a chest strap with a watch that has all the basic functions, including heart rate control, calorie counting, automatic selection desired heart rate zone.
• Suunto M5: This heart rate monitor is equipped with additional features, which will help you determine the optimal training regimen for your individual performance, as well as get reliable information about the speed and distance during running training.

Sanitas heart rate monitors

Sanitas doesn't have many models, but they are low priced, so we mention them as well.

• Sanitas SPM22 and SPM25: A heart rate monitor with a chest strap that includes all the essential features and is great for regular use.
• Sanitas SPM10: You don't need a chest strap to measure your heart rate with this model. You simply put the device on your wrist and touch the sensor on the front of the device with your finger. Such a device is suitable for people who do not want to wear a chest belt or, for example, for tourism.

Other models

• Nexx HRM-02. A budget option for a chest strap with a sensor, which is suitable for those who are not ready to seriously spend money on fitness gadgets. The device has built-in Bluetooth Smart and is compatible with almost all mobile applications that support the function of transmitting data from a wireless heart rate monitor. Counts heart rate and calories burned.
• Torneo H103. Chest strap with watch-receiver. It is endowed with all the main functions: heart rate calculation, calorie counter, setting heart rate zones, measuring time in the target zone, stopwatch, calendar and alarm clock, water resistance.
• Wahoo TICKR. Another option is a chest heart rate monitor that transmits information via Bluetooth to a smartphone. In addition to the pulse, it keeps track of characteristics such as steps taken and calories burned.

Which heart rate monitor to choose:

• If you want to buy a heart rate monitor with the best value for money, then buy the Sigma or Beurer models.
• If you want to get the most reliable and accurate device, then buy Polar or Suunto models.
• If you want to purchase the simplest and most inexpensive option for a heart rate monitor, you should pay attention to the models that are offered on the Aliexpress website (review below).

Heart rate monitors: a selection of the best models on Aliexpress

We offer you a selection of heart rate monitors that can be purchased on Aliexpress at an affordable price. All heart rate monitors have similar functions and are located in approximately the same price range, so we suggest you focus on customer reviews, the average rating of the product and the total number of orders for this product.

Chest strap without watch

If you purchase a chest strap without a watch, heart rate data will be sent to the smartphone app. The chest straps are compatible with all devices with Bluetooth system Smart (4.0) and ANT. The presented sensors are quite accurate in measuring the pulse.

We suggest you pay attention to the following chest sensors:

Hello everyone!

It's only a short time before our crowdfunding EMVIO stress watch campaign starts. There was a small respite and fingers were asked to the keyboard.

A little about our heart

What do we consider pulse

Attention!!! We would like to point out important point, which confuses terminology and is often found in comments to articles about heart rate gadgets. In fact, the pulse, which is measured by the contractions of the walls of blood vessels, and the pulse, which is measured by the electrical activity of the heart, have a different physiological nature, a different shape of the time curve, a different phase shift and, accordingly, require different registration methods and processing algorithms. Therefore, there can be no RR-intervals when measuring the pulse by modulating the volume of blood filling of arteries and capillaries and mechanical vibrations of their walls. And vice versa, it cannot be said that if you do not have RR intervals, then you cannot measure intervals similar in physiological significance to the pulse wave.

How do gadgets measure heart rate?

1. Measurement of pulse by electrocardiosignal

For his work in 1924 he won the Nobel Prize. It was Einthoven who first received a real electrocardiogram (he invented the name himself), developed the lead system - the Einthoven triangle and introduced the names of the EKS segments. The most famous is the QRS complex - the moment of electrical excitation of the ventricles and, as the most pronounced element of this complex in terms of its time and frequency properties, the R wave.

Painfully familiar signal and RR-interval!

In modern clinical practice, various lead systems are used to record the pacemaker: limb leads, chest leads in various configurations, orthogonal leads (according to Frank), etc. From the point of view of measuring the pulse, you can use any leads, because. in a normal EX-R wave in one form or another is present in all leads.

Sports chest heart rate monitors

An example of the design of the strap and Mister Gadget 80 lvl. Sensor pad - these are two ECG electrodes on different sides of the chest.

HRM straps from Garmin and Polar are popular on the market, and there are also many Chinese clones. In such straps, the electrodes are made in the form of two strips of conductive material. The strap can be part of the entire device or fastened to it with clip-on fasteners. Heart rate values ​​are usually transmitted via Bluetooth using the ANT+ or Smart protocol to a sports watch or smartphone. It is quite convenient for sports activities, but constant wearing causes discomfort.

We experimented with such straps in terms of the possibility of assessing heart rate variability, considering them as a standard, but the data coming from them turned out to be very smoothed. A member of our Kvanto25 team published a post on how he figured out the Polar strap protocol and connected it to a computer through the Labview environment.

With two hands

Example of a heart rate monitor with a front electrode (Beurer heart rate monitor)

An interesting device using this technology is the Phyode W/Me wristband, which has had a successful Kickstarter campaign and is commercially available. There was a post on Habré about him.

Electrode system PhyodeW/Me

The top electrode is combined with the button, so many people, looking at the device from the pictures and reading the reviews, thought that the measurement takes place simply by pressing the button. Now you know that on such bracelets, continuous registration with free hands is in principle not possible.

The advantage of this device is that the measurement of the pulse is not the main goal. The bracelet is positioned as a means of conducting and controlling breathing techniques, such as an individual trainer. We bought Phyode and lost with it. Everything works as promised, a real ECG is recorded, corresponding to the classic first ECG lead. However, the device is very sensitive to the movements of the finger on the front electrode, it moved slightly and the signal swam. Taking into account the fact that it takes about three minutes to collect statistics, the registration process looks stressful.

Here is another version of the two-handed principle in the FlyShark Smartwatch project, which is posted on Kickstarter.

Heart rate registration in the FlyShark Smartwatch project. Please hold your thumb.

What else is new in this area? Be sure to mention an interesting implementation of the ECG electrode - capacitive electric field sensor EPIC Ultra High Impedance ECG Sensor manufactured by Plessey Semiconductors.

Capacitive EPIC sensor for non-contact ECG recording.

A primary amplifier is installed inside the sensor, so it can be considered active. The sensor is quite compact (10x10 mm), does not require direct electrical contact, therefore, it does not have polarization effects and they do not need to be wetted. We think this solution is very promising for gadgets with EKS registration. We have not yet seen ready-made devices on these sensors.

2. Heart rate measurement based on plethysmography

Impedance plethysmography

Electrode system of impedance plethysmography. Picture from here

The main condition for the signal generator is the constancy of the current, its value is usually chosen no more than 10-15 μA. When the signal passes through the tissue, its amplitude is modulated by a change in blood supply. The second system of electrodes removes the modulated signal, in fact, we have an impedance-voltage converter circuit. With a point-to-point circuit, the electrodes of the generator and receiver are combined. Further, the signal is amplified, the carrier frequency is removed from it, the constant component is eliminated, and the delta we need remains.
If the device is calibrated (for the clinic it is required condition), then along the Y-axis you can plot values ​​in Ohms. The result is the following signal.

Examples of ECG time curves, impedance plethysmogram (rheogram) and its derivative during synchronous registration. (from here)

A very revealing picture. Pay attention to where the RR-interval is on the EX, and where is the distance between the peaks, corresponding to the duration of the cardiac cycle on the rheogram. Also note the sharp front of the R wave and the gentle front of the systolic phase of the rheogram.

Quite a lot of information can be obtained from the pulse curve on the state of the blood circulation of the studied organ, especially synchronously with the ECG, but we only need the pulse. It is not difficult to determine it - you need to find two local maxima corresponding to the maximum amplitude of the systolic wave, calculate the delta in seconds ∆T and beyond BMP = 60/∆T.

Examples of gadgets that use this method we haven't found yet. But there is an example of the concept of an implantable sensor to control the blood circulation of an artery. Here's about him. The active sensor sits directly on the artery and communicates with the host device via inductive coupling. We think this is a very interesting and promising approach. The principle of operation is clear from the picture. The match is shown to understand the size :) It uses a 4-point registration scheme and is flexible printed circuit board. I think, if you wish, you can finish the idea for a wearable micro-gadget. The advantage of this solution is that the consumption of such a sensor is vanishingly small.

Implantable blood flow and pulse sensor. Looks like a Johnny Mnemonic accessory.

At the end of this section, let's make a remark. At one time, we believed that this is how the pulse is measured in the well-known startup HealBeGo, since in this device the basic functionality is implemented by impedance spectroscopy, which, in fact, is rheography, only with a variable frequency of the probing signal. In general, everything is already on board. However, according to the description of the characteristics of the device, the pulse in HealBe is measured mechanically using a piezo sensor (more on this method in the second part of the review).

Optical plethysmography or photoplethysmography

An illustration of how photoplethysmography works

The method found wide use in the clinic and soon the technology was applied in household devices. For example, in compact pulse oximeters that record the pulse and oxygen saturation of the blood in the capillaries of the finger. Hundreds of modifications are made in the world. For the home, for the family, it will do, but it is not suitable for constant wear.


Pulse oximeter and ear clip. Thousands of them!

There are options with ear clips and headphones with built-in sensors. For example, such an option from Jabra or new project Glow Headphones. Functionality is similar to HRM straps, but more stylish design, familiar device, hands-free. You will not wear earplugs all the time, but just right for jogging in the fresh air to the music.

Jabra Sport Pulse™ Wireless and Glow Headphones. The pulse is recorded by the intra-ear (in-ear sensor) method.

Breakthrough

The most tempting was the measurement of the pulse from the wrist, because this is such a familiar and comfortable place. The first was the Mio Alpha watch with a successful Kickstarter company.

The creator of the product Liz Dickinson (Liz Dickinson) pathetically proclaimed this device the Holy Grail of heart rate measurement. The sensor module was developed by the guys from Philips. To date, this is the highest quality device for continuous measurement of pulse from the wrist using photoplethysmography.

You give smart watches a lot and different!

Now we can say that the technology has been worked out and introduced into mass production. In all such devices, the pulse is measured by the reflected signal.

Selecting the wavelength of the emitter

Now a few words on how to choose the wavelength of the emitter. It all depends on the task at hand. The rationale for the choice is well illustrated by the graph of light absorption of oxy and deoxyhemoglobin with curves superimposed on it. spectral characteristics emitters.

Light absorption curve by hemoglobin and main emission spectra of pulsed photoplethysmographic sensors.

The choice of wavelength depends on whether we want to measure pulse and/or SO2 oxygen saturation.

Just a pulse. For this case, the region where the absorption is maximum is important - this is the range from 500 to 600 nm, not counting the maximum in the ultraviolet part. Typically, 525 nm (green) is selected, or with a slight offset of 535 nm (used in the OSRAM SFH 7050 - Photoplethysmography Sensor).

The green LED pulse sensor is the most popular option in smart watches and bracelets. In the smartphone sensor samsung galaxy S5 red LED is used.

Oximetry. In this mode, it is necessary to measure the pulse and evaluate blood oxygen saturation. The method is based on the difference in absorption of bound (oxy) and non-bound (dezo) oxygen hemoglobin. The maximum absorption of deoxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) is in the “red” (660 nm) range, the maximum absorption of oxygenated (Hb02) hemoglobin is in the infrared (940 nm). To calculate the pulse, a channel with a wavelength of 660 nm is used.

Yellow for EMVIO. For our EMVIO instrument, we chose from two ranges: 525 nm and 590 nm (yellow). In doing so, we took into account the maximum spectral sensitivity of our optical sensor. Experiments have shown that there is practically no difference between them (within the framework of our design and the selected sensor). Any difference is interrupted by motion artifacts, individual skin properties, the thickness of the subcutaneous layer of the wrist and the degree of pressure of the sensor to the skin. We wanted to somehow stand out from the general “green” list and so far settled on yellow.

Of course, measurements can be taken not only from the wrist. There are non-standard options for choosing a pulse recording point on the market. For example, from the forehead. This approach was used in the project of a smart helmet for cyclists Life beam Smart helmet developed by the Israeli company Lifebeam. In the offers of this company there are also baseball caps and sun visors for girls. If you always wear a baseball cap, then this is your option.

The cyclist is pleased that there is no need to wear an HRM strap.

In general, the choice of registration points is quite large: wrist, finger, earlobe, forehead, biceps of the hand, ankle and foot for babies. Full expanse for developers.

A big advantage of the optical method is the ease of implementation on modern smartphones, where a standard video camera is used as a sensor, and a flash LED is used as an emitter. In the new Samsung smartphone Galaxy S5 on the back wall of the case, for the convenience of the user, there is already a regular pulse sensor module, it is possible that other manufacturers will implement similar solutions. This can be decisive for devices that do not have continuous registration, smartphones will absorb their functionality.

New horizons of photoplethysmography

Further development of this method is associated with a rethinking of the functionality of the optical sensor and the technological capabilities of modern wearable devices in terms of processing video images in real time. As a result, we have the idea of ​​measuring the pulse from the video image of the face. The backlight is natural light.

An original solution, taking into account the fact that a video camera is a standard attribute of any laptop, smartphone and even smart watches. The idea of ​​the method is disclosed in this work.

Subject N3 is clearly tense - the pulse is under 100 beats per minute, probably handing over work to his supervisor Subject N2. Subject N1 was just passing by.

First, a fragment of the face is selected on the frames, then the image is decomposed into three color channels and unfolded along the timeline (RGB trace). Pulse wave extraction is based on image decomposition by independent component analysis (ICA) and selection of the frequency component associated with pixel brightness modulation under the action of blood pulsation.

Philips Innovation Lab has taken a similar approach with Vital Signs Camera for iPhone. A very interesting thing. The averaging of the values ​​is certainly large, but in principle the method works. A similar project is developing.

Vital Signs Camera Screen Views.

So in the future, video surveillance systems will be able to measure your heart rate remotely. The NSA office will rejoice.

End of the review in the next post “How do smart watches, sports trackers and other gadgets measure heart rate? Part 2 ". In that part, we will talk about more exotic ways to register the pulse that are used in modern gadgets.

Good luck! And once again we invite you to the website of our EMVIO project.

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