Maybe you've asked yourself:
Why run with a chest heart rate monitor?
When you run with a running watch from , the watch measures your heart rate through the wrist sensor. This works well most times. But if running short intervals, the watch might struggle to capture fast heart rate changes. often doesn't register quick rises, making it hard to run by heart rate during intervals. A heart rate belt is more accurate and measures fluctuations faster.
To read more on using heart rate belts vs. wrist sensors, check Jesper's article in our inspiration universe testing wrist vs. belt measurements.
If you've decided to run with a , your next question may be:
Which heart rate belt should I choose?
Garmin offers several chest belts, but what can they do and which should you pick when buying your first belt? This article guides you through Garmin's chest monitors and their features.
HRM-Run
With HRM-Run, you get precise data from your run. Besides heart rate, HRM-Run measures Running Dynamics: cadence, vertical ratio (%), vertical oscillation (cm), stride length, ground contact time (ms), and left/right balance, beneficial on your run. It's useful for pulse-based running and training cadence. HRM-Run is a great tool for serious runners.
Buy here
HRM-Swim
Garmin's HRM-Swim is for swimmers, designed for pool use. It features a wider strap and more grip points, keeping it secure during quick turns. HRM-Swim stores data and sends it to compatible devices when out of water.
HRM-TRI
This Garmin belt is for triathletes, combining running, swimming, and cycling. It offers running dynamics like HRM-Run, stores swim data, and sends it post-swim. Unlike HRM-Swim, HRM-Tri DOES NOT tolerate pool chemicals, suited for open water.
HRM-PRO
HRM-Pro is Garmin's top belt, merging HRM-Run, HRM-Swim, and HRM-Tri features. It provides all running data, stores pulse data during activities, and sends data post-activity.
HRM-DUAL
HRM-DUAL is a pure heart rate monitor, lacking running dynamics but offering up to 3.5 years battery life, the longest among belts.
Running Dynamics Pod
If you don't need heart rate data beyond your watch but want dynamics like HRM-Run offers, Running Dynamics Pod is for you. Pair it with your watch or phone, clip it on your waistband, and you're set.
