Heart rate monitors, first introduced in the 1960s, help individuals monitor their heart rate during activity. A heart rate monitor can assist athletes, from recreational to professional, in getting the most out of their workout. The device can also help patients with heart conditions monitor their heart rate during moderate activity.
Typical costs:
There are various types of heart rate monitors. The most common type features a strap, worn around the chest, and a watch, which displays the heart rate. This type of monitor costs between $30 and $470. Serious athletes may opt for a more expensive heart rate monitor, which can include a variety of features, such as GPS tracking of mileage completed, alerts that relate to the individual's target heart rate [1] and the ability to store or send heart rate reports to a computer.
Recreational athletes or those just beginning an exercise program will likely want to purchase a heart rate monitor like the PC3 Heart Rate Monitor. The PC3, which retails for $30, is a simple monitor, strap and watch with a stopwatch. It offers no additional features.
The Polar FT80G1 GPS[2] , which costs more than $400, offers the standard heart rate monitor features along with the ability to store target heart rate ranges and GPS to obtain accurate workout mileage.
Other types of heart rate monitors include those that measure the heart rate in the fingertip or wrist. These monitors can cost between $20 and $50. These types of monitors typically lack the features of the watch and strap heart rate monitors.
Insurance does not typically cover the cost of a heart rate monitor. However, in rare cases, when a physician writes a prescription for a heart rate monitor, insurance coverage may apply. If an individual does have coverage for a heart rate monitor, typical coinsurance and copay rates will apply. These can range from $5 to $100, depending upon the insurance plan.
Each heart rate monitor should include a device for measuring the heart rate, a device for displaying the heart rate, batteries and instructions for use. Some devices will also include a strap, which holds the measuring device in place. More expensive heart rate monitors may come with computer software and cables to download data to a computer.
Not all heart rate monitors will come with a warranty, especially those that are less costly. For individuals who are looking at device with many features, look for a monitor with at least a three-year warranty.
Additional costs:
Heart rate monitors and the included watches need batteries to operate. The batteries required will vary depending upon the brand of the device. Batteries typically cost less than $10.
Expert opinions vary on how to best optimize training using a heart rate monitor. Athletes, both recreational and professional, can purchase books which outline particular training methodologies. Most training books, many of which include a logbook, cost less than $25.
Discounts:
Watch advertisements from local sporting goods stores or medical supply stores for discounts on heart rate monitors.
Shopping for a heart rate monitor:
Individuals who do not have a prescription for heart rate monitor should start shopping online. An online search will give the individual the chance to determine what features are important. For example, some heart rate monitors are waterproof. Others offer the ability to program alerts when the athlete is outside the targeted heart rate zone.
Online retailers, like Bodytronics[3] and Online Fitness.com[4] offer a host of heart rate monitors.
Those seeking insurance coverage for a heart rate monitor will need to see a physician prior to purchase. The doctor may write a prescription for one specific heart rate monitor.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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