Heart Rate Monitors...need help

1. 75

   TIMETRAVELER2posted 6 years ago

   Can anybody guide me to a simple to use but accurate an inexpensive heart rate monitor that can be worn on the wrist during exercise.  There are so many out there that this is confusing.  Must be one you don't need to have a smart phone to use.  Thanks

   replyreport
   1. 0

      Will Apseposted 6 years agoin reply to this

      I recently used a super cheap but effective device that measures heart rate, blood pressure and distance walked/run. But as soon as I was reassured that the way I feel is a good measure of how hard my heart is working, I started leaving it at home.
      
      To be honest taking your own pulse is all you really need. Plus a blood pressure monitor at home.
      
      I paid 10 dollars for this: I8 Fitness Tracker Watch Smart Bracelet IP68
      
      It works fine but the strap will break quickly.
      
      A friend of mine swears by this: Garmin Vívofit Fitness Band at around 60 dollars.
      
      Easy to find on Amazon.

      replyreport
      1. 75

         TIMETRAVELER2posted 6 years agoin reply to this

         Good info.  Thanks.  Hubby is being treated for AFIB, so needs more than pulse taking.  Already have a home monitor...want something he can wear while exercising.  Will check these out.  Appreciate the info.

         replyreport
         1. 0

            Will Apseposted 6 years agoin reply to this

            There are implantable cardioverter defibrillators which give the heart a shock  if an abnormal rhythm is detected. Apparently Apple watches are supposed to be able to detect AFIB with the right software, but are not as good as an ECG.
            
            I declined an ICD on the basis that I didn't want a shock every time I got a bit anxious. A friend was flattened once in an airport by a shock triggered, she reckoned, by the stress of the journey. It might have saved her life or it might have merely ruined her holiday.
            
            I would ask a doctor if you want something that can be trusted.
            
            Incidentally, there are publicly placed defibrillators in Europe these days, mainly in rural areas. Don't know if you have that in the US. Might be handy to know where to go in an emergency, if a hospital is far away.
            
            Best of luck.

            replyreport
            1. 75

               TIMETRAVELER2posted 6 years agoin reply to this

               Yes, I'm aware of these gizmos, but my husband's situation is not that far along right now.  Found a doc who specializes in AFIB and will see him for a second opinion soon.  Spikes are random and do not happen daily at this point.  Trying to control the situation with diet and meds, but it's still a little scary.

               replyreport
2. 83

   Kenna McHughposted 6 years ago

   Fitbit is all I know. I may have to be connected to a smartphone.

   replyreport
   1. 75

      TIMETRAVELER2posted 6 years agoin reply to this

      Don't have a smart phone and Fitbits are pricey but thanks,

      replyreport