Best Heart Rate Monitor For Crossfit: 9 Devices Tested & Reviewed

Are you looking to take your Crossfit performance to the next level? If so, you’re in luck! The secret weapon that can help you optimize your workouts and push your limits is a high-quality heart rate monitor. By tracking your heart rate during your Crossfit sessions, you can gain valuable insights into your training intensity, recovery, and overall performance. But with so many options available on the market, how do you choose the best heart rate monitor for your needs? That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll help you choose the Best Heart Rate Monitor For Crossfit.

Best Heart Rate Monitor For Crossfit: 9 Devices Tested

1- Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor: Best Overall

Key Features

1.41 ounces
Silicone material
Wireless
1 training session built-in memory
Low energy connectivity
ANT+ and Bluetooth
5 kHz transmission (Gymlink)
30m waterproof
400 hours of battery life

The polar H10 heart rate monitor stands out for its exceptional accuracy and seamless connectivity. It ensures precise heart rate monitoring and allows you to connect with a wide range of training devices.

In terms of design, the H10 features enhanced electrodes and a user-friendly buckle with silicone dots. The strap is both interference-free and comfortable, ensuring a pleasant experience even during extended use.

What sets the heart monitoring sensor of the H10 apart is its unparalleled accuracy and precision. Experts have hailed it as the most precise heart rate sensor in the history of Polar. Its reputation for top-notch accuracy has made it the preferred choice of professional athletes who rely on precise HR measurements.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this monitor is its versatility. Whether you’re cycling, rowing, training indoors, running, or swimming, the Polar H10 can accompany you effortlessly.

In addition to heart rate monitoring, the Polar H10 offers a host of other features. It seamlessly integrates with popular sports and smartwatches, such as Apple, Garmin, Polar, and Suunto. You can also use HRM-compatible Cardio equipment apps like Strava and Nike. Regular software updates ensure that your HRM remains up to date.

When it comes to connectivity, the H10 excels with Bluetooth and ANT+ options, providing a wide array of connection possibilities, including Peloton. It also boasts internal memory to store data from a single training session. Furthermore, the H10 is fully water-resistant, and its CR2025 battery offers an impressive 400 hours of usage. Monitoring the battery level is possible through the Polar Beat app, though the level is only displayed while wearing the device.

Pros

Comfortable
Accurate readings in testing
Good battery life
Waterproof
It doesn’t require a phone nearby

Cons

App charges for features

Verdict

In conclusion, the Polar H10 surpasses expectations in terms of accuracy, comfort, battery life, water resistance, and connectivity. The only drawback we found is that the app charges for certain features. However, if you are willing to invest in the app’s additional features, we wholeheartedly recommend the Polar H10.

2- Garmin Dual Chest Strap Monitor: Runner Up

Key Features

1.9 ounces
30mm bandwidth
CR2032 (3 volts) battery
1 ATM water-resistivity
Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
Strap is washable

The Garmin 12883 heart rate monitor is renowned for its exceptional accuracy, just like other Garmin devices. It incorporates an advanced and highly precise HR sensor to deliver accurate readings.

In terms of design, this monitor features a comfortable and adjustable soft strap. The strap can be easily washed by removing the heart rate module, ensuring hygiene and durability.

The standout feature of this premium heart rate monitor is its ability to transmit real-time heart rate data through Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity. This allows you to train both outdoors and indoors, as well as participate in online training platforms like Zwift. You can consistently receive accurate heart rate readings on your device, whether you’re using compatible fitness equipment or attending your favorite gym class.

One aspect we particularly appreciate about this heart rate monitor is its lightweight design, weighing only 54.4g. This ensures maximum comfort, even during extended wear. Additionally, it operates effectively within a temperature range of 23°F–122°F (-5°C–50°C).

In terms of battery life, the Garmin 12883 utilizes a user-replaceable CR2032 (3 volts) battery, which offers an impressive lifespan of up to 3.5 years.

While the monitor boasts a water-resistivity rating of 1 ATM, making it sweatproof, it is not recommended for swimming.

Pros

Comfortable
Highly accurate
Long battery life
Use ANT+ and Bluetooth
Safe strap-washable

Cons

Can’t connect to the Garmin app directly

Verdict

Overall, the Garmin 12883 heart rate monitor excels in accuracy, comfort, and battery life. The only downside is that it cannot directly connect to the Garmin app. However, despite this limitation, we highly recommend choosing this heart rate monitor for all your fitness needs.

3- Power Labs Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor: Best Heart Rate Monitor For Crossfit for Small Budget

Key Features

ANT+/ Bluetooth support
Water and sweatproof
Six months battery life
Indoor and outdoor training
55 grams
Works with third-party apps
Plastic material

We have chosen to highlight the Power Labs heart rate monitor due to its exceptional comfort. The chest strap, constructed from soft and stretchable material, provides a comfortable experience throughout your workout routine.

When it comes to quality, this monitor is designed to meet waterproof standards. Whether you’re running in the rain or sweating profusely during a workout, you can trust that it will withstand the conditions.

The Power Labs HR monitor delivers highly accurate heart rate readings, thanks to its advanced sensors. It has been rigorously tested for durability, which is a feature we greatly appreciate. Furthermore, experts and professionals in various activities such as running and cycling have verified the accuracy of these heart rate chest straps.

In terms of usability, the Power Labs heart rate monitor is beginner-friendly and easy to set up. It offers fast connectivity, allowing you to effortlessly pair it with your preferred Bluetooth or ANT+ fitness hardware and apps.

Compatibility is another advantage of this monitor, as it works seamlessly with several popular fitness apps, including Zwift, Strava, Polar Beat, Garmin, Peloton, and Wahoo. Using the ANT+ protocol, you can connect the monitor to bike computers, spin bikes, or other fitness equipment.

Additionally, the monitor features a pairing light with a custom logo that flashes for 20 seconds during the pairing process, ensuring convenient setup.

With a battery designed to last for 6+ months, the Power Labs heart rate monitor boasts an impressive battery life.

Pros

Excellent price
Comfortable
Adjustable strap
IP67 water resistance
Wahoo compatibility

Cons

Not ideal for swimming

Verdict

In conclusion, we highly recommend this heart rate monitor for its accuracy and comfort. It offers numerous advantages, although it is not suitable for swimming. Apart from this limitation, it is an excellent choice for tracking your heart rate during workouts.

4- Wahoo TICKR X Heart Rate Monitor

Key Features

1.7 ounces
Synthetic material
Cr2032 battery type
500 hours of battery life
50 hours of built-in memory
IPX7 (5 FT) water-resistant
Cadence
Ground Contact Time
Vertical Osciallation
LED’s

The Wahoo Tickr X goes beyond the capabilities of a typical heart rate monitor, serving as a versatile run tracker that can be used both indoors and outdoors. Additionally, it has the unique ability to count reps during strength training sessions.

Compared to its predecessor, the first-generation Tickr X, this new model boasts a slimmer, lighter, and more comfortable design. The updated shape enhances the user experience.

What sets this monitor apart is its ability to monitor more than just your heart rate. It also measures three advanced running metrics: vertical oscillation, cadence, and ground contact time. Additionally, the new model features two blinking LEDs placed on the top of the device for easy visibility and assurance that the sensor is functioning correctly.

The Tickr X comes with a built-in memory that can store up to 50 hours of workout data, allowing you to exercise without the need for a phone. The Run Smart feature enables you to track efficiency and improvements in form, and you can use the Wahoo Fitness app to report running dynamics. The app also facilitates the recording and automatic upload of workout data to various training platforms such as Strava. Moreover, the Tickr X is compatible with over 50 apps, including Zwift, Wahoo Fitness app, Runtastic, UA Record, Runkeeper, Peloton, and Endomondo.

Equipped with Bluetooth and ANT+ technology, the Tickr X offers quick pairing with your smartphone. The device runs on a CR2032 battery, providing an impressive battery life of 500 hours. It is also IPX7 rated, making it water-resistant up to 5 feet.

Pros

Lighter and slimmer design
Records three advanced running metrics
Features ANT+ and Bluetooth support
It can be paired with three Bluetooth devices at onc
Highly accurate

Cons

Doesn’t record heart rate during swims

Verdict

In summary, we appreciate the Wahoo Tickr X for its high accuracy, comfort, and the inclusion of three advanced running metrics. It can be paired with up to three devices simultaneously. The only drawback we found is that it does not record heart rate during swimming. However, aside from this limitation, it is an exceptional heart rate monitor. We highly recommend choosing the Tickr X for your fitness tracking needs.

5- Garmin 10997 Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor: Premium Choice

Key Features

2,1 ounces or 59 grams
Six running dynamics
5 ATM water-resistant
ANT+ heart rate
Supports heart rate variability
Advanced heart rate features
CR2032 battery type
Up to 1 year of battery life

For those seeking the most advanced running metrics, the Garmin 10997 stands as the ultimate choice. The Garmin HRM-Run offers an impressive array of 6 different running dynamics metrics, empowering you to elevate your performance to new heights.

With real-time data provided by this monitor, you can enhance your running technique and push your activities to the next level. In terms of design, the HRM-Run features a small, lightweight module that seamlessly fits within the width of the strap.

What sets this monitor apart is its exceptional accuracy, allowing you to access key information beyond just your heart rate. It enables you to determine the specific energy source you are utilizing during your exercise sessions.

Additionally, the HRM-Run excels in providing the six most advanced running metrics alongside heart rate monitoring. These metrics include cadence, stride length, ground contact time, balance, vertical oscillation, and vertical ratio.

The strap of this monitor offers a perfect blend of comfort and adjustability, ensuring a pleasant experience even during prolonged wear.

In terms of water resistance, the HRM-Run is waterproof up to 5ATM, making it suitable for use in water-related activities. While it does not transmit data underwater, triathletes often wear it under their wetsuits during the swim portion, and it automatically connects to their device once they exit the water.

As for battery life, the HRM-Run operates on a CR2032 battery, providing an impressive lifespan of up to 1 year when used for approximately 1 hour per day.

Pros

Unique design
Highly accurate
Comfortable
Six advanced running stats
Amazing battery life

Cons

Not machine washable

Verdict

In conclusion, we highly recommend the Garmin HRM-Run for runners who seek advanced running dynamics metrics. It offers exceptional accuracy, comfort, and a long-lasting battery life. The only drawback we found is that the strap is not machine washable. Despite this minor limitation, it remains an outstanding choice for serious runners.

6- Polar H9 Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor: Best For Cyclists

Key Features

0.1 kg
Polyester material
Coin cell CR2-25 battery type
400 hours of battery life
Waterproof
Supports third-party apps

If you are seeking a reliable heart rate monitor to track your cardiac data during workouts or training, the new Polar H9 is worth considering. It proves to be an all-around sensor suitable for various sports and activities. With the Polar H9 heart rate monitor, you can obtain accurate heart rate and calorie data, making it a trustworthy choice that fulfills your needs.

One of the standout features of the Polar H9 is its gold standard heart rate tracking, backed by decades of scientific research and development. It has gained recognition from researchers and users worldwide, making it a reliable option. By using this monitor, you can optimize your cardio workouts and track your heart rate and calorie burn accurately during activities such as gym workouts, indoor cycling, group exercises, and jogging.

The connectivity options of the Polar H9 are highly commendable. It can effortlessly connect to sports and smartwatches, including Polar, Wahoo, Garmin, Peloton, Zwift, gym equipment, activity trackers, and other Bluetooth and ANT+ devices. Transforming your phone into a fitness tracker becomes a possibility with this monitor, offering endless connectivity options with apps like Polar Club, Polar Beat, Nike+ Run Club, Peloton, and various fitness and training apps.

The battery life of the Polar H9 is impressive, powered by a coin cell CR2025 battery. With daily one-hour heart rate training sessions, the battery can last up to 400 hours, ensuring long-lasting usage without frequent replacements.

In terms of water resistance, the heart rate sensor of the Polar H9 is designed to withstand water activities, thanks to its water-resistant capabilities. However, it’s important to note that Bluetooth wireless technology will not function in water.

Pros

Competitive price
Accurate and comfortable
Easy to use
Long battery life
Waterproof

Cons

It lacks some features you get with pricier monitors

Verdict

In conclusion, we appreciate the Polar H9 heart rate monitor for its accuracy, fast connectivity, long battery life, and comfort. It performs exceptionally well in various aspects. The only downside is that it may lack certain features found in more expensive monitors.

7- Garmin Forerunner 935

Key Features

1.2 inches round display
240 x 240 screen resolution
Transflective technology
Wrist-based heart rate monitoring
Strong battery life
5 ATM water-resistant
Built-in GPS
UltraTrac mode

The Forerunner 935 is an exceptional multi-sport watch designed to provide deep insights into your performance and aid in its improvement. Equipped with a wrist-based heart rate monitor, it is also compatible with ANT+ chest heart rate monitors.

In terms of design, the Forerunner 935 features a unique silhouette with a comfortable silicone strap that stretches smoothly between the lugs, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist.

The heart rate monitoring feature of the Forerunner 935 encompasses both the wrist-based heart rate monitor and the option to connect with an ANT+ chest heart rate monitor. You can view the wrist-based heart rate data on the heart rate widget, and the device utilizes the ANT+ heart rate data when both options are available.

To pair the Garmin 935 heart rate monitor, follow these steps:

Install the sensor or wear the heart rate monitor.
Bring your device within 1 cm of the sensor and wait for the device to establish a connection. A message will appear once the sensor is detected.
If needed, navigate to Settings > Sensors and Accessories to manage ANT+ sensors.

The Forerunner 935 offers more than just heart rate monitoring. It allows you to evaluate your training status, indicating if you are overdoing or undertraining, and it provides additional performance monitoring features.

In terms of battery life, the Forerunner 935 impresses with up to 2 weeks of battery life in watch mode, up to 24 hours in GPS mode, and up to 50 hours in UltraTrac mode (with wrist-based heart rate).

With a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, the Forerunner 935 is waterproof, making it suitable for water sports and equipped with swimming features.

Pros

Varied sports tracking
Amazing battery life
Excellent fitness information
Wrist-based heart rate
Highly accurate and comfortable

Cons

No onboard music

Verdict

Overall, we consider the Forerunner 935 to be the best heart rate monitor due to its inclusion of a wrist-based heart rate monitor and its array of smartwatch features. We highly recommend choosing the Forerunner 935 if you desire both smartwatch functionality and heart rate monitoring capabilities.

8- Garmin VivoSmart HR Crossfit Activity Tracker

Key Features

Acrylic lens material
Silicone strap
160 x 68 pixels
Up to 5days of battery life
5 ATM water-resistant
Sleep monitoring
Garmin Elevate wrist-based heart rate monitor
Barometric altimeter
Accelerometer
Smart notifications
Step counter
Calories burned
HR zones
HR alerts
HR calories

The Vivosmart R is an elegant and intelligent activity tracker that utilizes wrist-based heart rate monitoring to track your heart rate accurately and provide information on calories burned. With Garmin’s Elevate Wrist Heart technology, you can effortlessly monitor your heart rate using this tracker. Its sleek and lightweight design ensures comfort, and you might even forget you’re wearing it.

The standout feature of this tracker is its accurate wrist-based heart rate monitoring, which enables precise tracking of heart rate and more accurate information on calories burned. This unique technology eliminates the need for an additional heart rate strap, providing you with the freedom to work out unencumbered. By utilizing this heart rate technology, you can receive better credit for your efforts and quantify the intensity of your fitness activities.

In addition to heart rate monitoring, the Vivosmart HR boasts an integrated barometric altimeter that measures floors climbed, along with steps, calories, and distance. It also keeps you active and connected through smart notifications. Whenever you receive a notification on your smartphone, your watch will gently vibrate and display the information directly.

The tracker includes intensity minutes, allowing you to monitor your progress against aerobic activity goals recommended by health organizations.

With a battery life of up to 5 days, as promised by Garmin, the Vivosmart HR ensures long-lasting usage. Furthermore, it is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it suitable for various water activities.

Pros

Accurate
Continuous heart rate monitoring
Comfortable
Waterproof
Crisp display

Cons

Overly complex settings menu

Verdict

In conclusion, we find the Vivosmart R to be an excellent choice for heart rate monitoring, thanks to its wrist-based heart rate monitor. It also offers additional features that greatly assist in your daily activities.

9- Fitbit Charge 2 For Crossfit

Key Features

Steps taken
Distance covered
Calories burned
Active minutes
Floors climbed
All-day heart rate and zones
Reminders to move
Real-time stats
5 days battery life
1 ATM water-resistant

Fitbit Charge 2 is highly regarded for CrossFit due to its ability to measure calorie burn continuously throughout the day, thanks to its automatic wrist-based heart rate measurement. The device boasts an improved design, featuring a larger screen and accurate activity tracking, which enhances the overall user experience.

One remarkable feature of the Charge 2 is its comprehensive heart rate monitoring capabilities. It tracks your heart rate throughout the day and during exercise. The tracker displays a heart icon to indicate which heart rate zone you are in, including the Peak zone, Cardio zone, fat burn zone, and out of the zone. Furthermore, you have the flexibility to customize your heart rate zones using the Fitbit app.

The Charge 2 offers a personalized cardio fitness score, providing insights into your fitness level and allowing you to track improvements over time. During run mode, when connected to GPS, you can view real-time stats such as pace and distance directly on your wrist. Additionally, the device tracks steps, distance, calories burned, floors climbed, and active minutes throughout the day.

With a battery life of up to 5 days, the Charge 2 ensures long-lasting usage. It is also water-resistant up to 1 ATM, capable of withstanding splashes and sweat.

Pros

Interchangeable bands
Large display
Comfortable
Consistent tracking
Updated with sleep stages and sleep insights

Cons

No GPS

Verdict

In summary, we consider the Fitbit Charge 2 to be an excellent choice for heart rate monitoring. Its ability to track heart rate throughout the day is a notable advantage. If you are seeking additional tracking features along with heart rate monitoring, we highly recommend the Fitbit Charge 2.

Importance of Monitoring Heart Rate During Crossfit Workouts

Monitoring your heart rate during Crossfit workouts is essential for maximizing your performance and achieving your fitness goals. Your heart rate is a direct reflection of your body’s exertion level, and by keeping track of it, you can ensure that you’re training at the right intensity. Whether you’re aiming to improve your endurance, increase your strength, or lose weight, understanding your heart rate can provide valuable feedback on how your body is responding to your workouts. By wearing a heart rate monitor, you can easily track your heart rate in real-time, allowing you to make adjustments to your training as needed. This data-driven approach can help you avoid overtraining, prevent injuries, and optimize your recovery.

Another important reason to monitor your heart rate during Crossfit workouts is to ensure that you’re hitting the right training zones. Different heart rate zones correspond to different training goals, such as fat burning, aerobic endurance, or anaerobic threshold. By staying within the appropriate heart rate zone for your desired outcome, you can make the most of your time in the gym and see faster progress. For example, if you’re aiming to improve your cardiovascular fitness, you’ll want to spend more time in the aerobic zone, where your heart rate is elevated but sustainable. On the other hand, if you’re focusing on building strength and power, you might want to target the anaerobic zone, where your heart rate is higher and your muscles are working at maximum effort. By using a heart rate monitor, you can easily track whether you’re hitting the right zones and adjust your training accordingly.

In addition to optimizing your training intensity and targeting the right heart rate zones, monitoring your heart rate during Crossfit workouts can also help you gauge your recovery. After an intense workout, your heart rate should gradually return to its resting rate. By tracking this recovery time, you can assess your overall fitness level and determine how well your body is adapting to the demands of Crossfit. If your heart rate remains elevated for an extended period after your workout, it may indicate that you need to dial back the intensity or increase your recovery efforts. By paying attention to these trends over time, you can make informed decisions about your training schedule, rest days, and overall recovery strategy.

Benefits of Using a Heart Rate Monitor for Crossfit

Using a heart rate monitor for Crossfit can provide a wide range of benefits that can help you take your performance to the next level. Here are just a few of the advantages of incorporating heart rate monitoring into your training routine:

Accurate Training Intensity: One of the biggest advantages of using a heart rate monitor is that it provides accurate feedback on your training intensity. By tracking your heart rate, you can ensure that you’re pushing yourself hard enough to see results without overexerting yourself. This can be especially useful during high-intensity workouts, where it can be challenging to gauge your effort level based on perceived exertion alone.
Personalized Workouts: Heart rate monitoring allows you to tailor your workouts to your individual fitness level and goals. By knowing your target heart rate zones, you can design your training sessions to align with your specific objectives, whether it’s improving endurance, building strength, or burning fat. This personalized approach can help you see faster progress and avoid plateaus.
Real-time Feedback: With a heart rate monitor, you can get real-time feedback during your workouts, allowing you to make immediate adjustments. If your heart rate is too high, you can dial back the intensity to prevent overtraining. If it’s too low, you can push yourself harder to maximize your effort. This instant feedback can help you stay motivated and on track towards your goals.
Recovery Optimization: By monitoring your heart rate during your recovery periods, you can ensure that you’re giving your body enough time to rest and recharge between workouts. This can help prevent burnout, reduce the risk of injuries, and improve your overall performance. By paying attention to your heart rate trends over time, you can fine-tune your recovery strategies and make the most of your rest days.
Goal Tracking: Heart rate monitoring allows you to track your progress over time and see how your fitness level is improving. By setting specific heart rate targets and monitoring your performance against them, you can stay motivated and track your progress towards your goals. Whether you’re aiming to run a faster mile, lift heavier weights, or complete more reps, a heart rate monitor can help you stay accountable and measure your success.

With so many benefits to offer, it’s clear that incorporating a heart rate monitor into your Crossfit training routine can be a game-changer. But with a wide range of options available on the market, how do you choose the best heart rate monitor for your needs? In the next section, we’ll explore the different types of heart rate monitors available for Crossfit enthusiasts and discuss the features you should consider when making your selection.

Types of Heart Rate Monitors Available for Crossfit

When it comes to choosing a heart rate monitor for Crossfit, there are several options to consider. Each type of heart rate monitor offers its own unique benefits and features, so it’s important to understand the differences before making your decision. Here are the main types of heart rate monitors available for Crossfit:

Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitors

Chest strap heart rate monitors are considered the gold standard when it comes to accuracy. These monitors consist of a chest strap that you wear around your torso, which is equipped with sensors that detect your heart’s electrical signals. The data is then transmitted wirelessly to a wrist unit or a smartphone app, where you can view your heart rate in real-time. Chest strap heart rate monitors provide highly accurate readings and are suitable for all types of workouts, including high-intensity Crossfit sessions.

Wrist-based Heart Rate Monitors

Wrist-based heart rate monitors are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and comfort. These monitors use optical sensors on the back of the watch to measure your heart rate directly from your wrist. While they may not be as accurate as chest strap monitors, they provide a good estimate of your heart rate during most activities, including Crossfit. Wrist-based heart rate monitors are generally more comfortable to wear, and they often come with additional features like GPS tracking and smartphone notifications.

Smartphone Apps

If you’re on a budget or prefer not to wear a separate device, smartphone apps can be a great option for monitoring your heart rate during Crossfit workouts. Many apps use the camera on your smartphone to detect changes in skin color and movement, which are then used to estimate your heart rate. While these apps may not be as accurate as dedicated heart rate monitors, they can still provide valuable insights into your training intensity. Some apps even offer additional features like workout analysis and training plans.

When choosing a heart rate monitor for Crossfit, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If accuracy is your top priority, a chest strap heart rate monitor may be the best option for you. However, if comfort and convenience are more important, a wrist-based heart rate monitor or a smartphone app may be a better fit. In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into the features you should consider when choosing a heart rate monitor for Crossfit.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Heart Rate Monitor for Crossfit

With so many heart rate monitors available on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. To help you make an informed decision, here are some key features to consider when choosing a heart rate monitor for Crossfit:

Accuracy

The accuracy of the heart rate monitor is crucial for reliable data. Look for monitors that have proven accuracy and are known for providing consistent readings, especially during high-intensity workouts. Chest strap heart rate monitors are generally considered the most accurate, but wrist-based monitors and smartphone apps can also provide reliable results.

Comfort

Since you’ll be wearing your heart rate monitor during your workouts, it’s important to choose one that is comfortable and doesn’t restrict your movement. For chest strap monitors, look for straps that are adjustable and made from soft, breathable materials. Wrist-based monitors should have a comfortable band that stays securely in place during your workouts.

Durability

Crossfit workouts can be tough on your gear, so it’s important to choose a heart rate monitor that is built to withstand the demands of your training. Look for monitors that are sweat-resistant, water-resistant, and shock-resistant. A durable heart rate monitor will be able to withstand the rigors of your workouts and last for years to come.

Battery Life

The battery life of your heart rate monitor is an important consideration, especially if you plan to use it for long workouts or multiple sessions without recharging. Look for monitors with a battery life that meets your needs and consider whether you prefer a replaceable battery or a rechargeable one.

Connectivity

Depending on your preferences, you may want a heart rate monitor that can connect to other devices or apps. Some monitors offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to sync your data with your smartphone or fitness tracker. Others may have built-in GPS for tracking your outdoor workouts. Consider which connectivity options are important to you and choose a monitor that meets your requirements.

Additional Features

While heart rate monitoring is the primary function of these devices, many heart rate monitors come with additional features that can enhance your Crossfit experience. These features may include GPS tracking, workout analysis, sleep tracking, smartphone notifications, and more. Consider which additional features are important to you and choose a monitor that offers the functionality you need.

By considering these features and prioritizing your needs, you can narrow down your options and choose the heart rate monitor that is best suited for your Crossfit training. In the next section, we’ll explore how to use a heart rate monitor during your Crossfit workouts to maximize your performance.

How to Use a Heart Rate Monitor During Crossfit Workouts?

Using a heart rate monitor during your Crossfit workouts is simple and can provide valuable insights into your training intensity and performance. Here are some steps to follow to get the most out of your heart rate monitor:

Choose the Right Heart Rate Zone: Before starting your workout, determine your target heart rate zone based on your goals. This will help you gauge your effort level and ensure that you’re training at the right intensity. For example, if you’re aiming to improve endurance, your target heart rate zone might be between 70-80% of your maximum heart rate. If you’re focusing on strength and power, your target heart rate zone might be higher, around 80-90% of your maximum heart rate.
Warm up and Calibrate: Before your workout, take a few minutes to warm up and calibrate your heart rate monitor. This can help ensure accurate readings throughout your session. For chest strap heart rate monitors, wet the sensors before putting on the strap to improve conductivity. For wrist-based monitors, make sure the watch is snug against your wrist and in the correct position.
Start Tracking: Once you’re ready to begin your workout, start tracking your heart rate using your heart rate monitor. Make sure the monitor is securely in place and that you can easily see the display or access the data on your smartphone app. Most heart rate monitors will display your heart rate in real-time, allowing you to monitor your effort level throughout your workout.
Adjust Your Intensity: As you progress through your workout, pay attention to your heart rate and adjust your intensity as needed. If your heart rate is too low and you’re not hitting your target zone, push yourself harder. If your heart rate is too high and you’re exceeding your target zone, dial back the intensity to prevent overexertion. By staying within your target heart rate zone, you can optimize your training and maximize your results.
Monitor Your Recovery: After each intense interval or set, take note of how quickly your heart rate recovers. A faster recovery time indicates better cardiovascular fitness and suggests that your body is adapting well to the demands of your workout. If your heart rate takes longer to recover, it may indicate that you need to adjust your training or recovery strategy.
Track Your Progress: After your workout, take a moment to review your heart rate data and track your progress. Many heart rate monitors and smartphone apps offer detailed analysis and insights into your performance, allowing you to see how you’re improving over time. Use this information to set new goals, adjust your training, and stay motivated on your fitness journey.

By following these steps and using your heart rate monitor consistently, you can make the most of your Crossfit workouts and see faster progress towards your fitness goals. In the next section, we’ll share some tips for maximizing your performance with a heart rate monitor.

Conclusion

When joining Crossfit, you need a device that can easily track your progress. You also need to transition between workout modes with just a simple click of a button.

A device with an extended battery life that can keep up for 24 hours is your perfect companion during your most extended endeavors.

On top of that, you need a reliable barometric altimeter to calculate your running stress accurately.

So far, the abovementioned gadgets are the top nine sports watch products I have personally tried.

I love hiking in the woods and want to see my climb data in real-time, so I need a device with sophisticated sensors and insights into my training.

I also need a device to help me relax and tell me if it’s a good idea to train or if I should recover from an intense workout instead.

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