Beginner Heart Rate Monitors for Basic Fitness

Do you need to get into shape? Or stay in shape? Maybe you need to lose a couple of pounds. Or maybe you’re an occasional runner. Or you like to take a spin on your bike every weekend.

For all of these cases, and many more, you could benefit from a heart rate monitor intended for basic fitness.

There are many great features of advanced heart rate monitors. Some are intended for serious runners or cyclists with the capability to record GPS location, speed, distance. Some will upload workout routines for later analysis. Those are great features if you need them. However, depending on your needs, an entry-level heart rate monitor may be enough.

All heart rate monitor companies have basic models made for beginners. These watches have a very limited amount of features, but are delivered at a price intended to capture you early in your fitness journey. Cheap or expensive- they all measure your heart rate the same way.

Chest strap or strapless: A strapless heart rate monitor can be more convenient and more comfortable than a heart rate monitor with a chest strap. The downside is that the strapless heart rate monitor is not as accurate. Both types of their uses. Most of the heart rate monitors we review have a chest strap, however, do certainly list strapless heart rate monitor reviews.

Here are the heart rate monitors we have reviewed in the basic fitness category.