Should you buy a heart rate monitor for the wrist or the chest?

Heart rate monitors on the chest feature a wireless sensor that detects your beating heart electronically. Because they are worn closer to the heart and less prone to sliding around during routines, they offer more accurate readings. By contrast, wrist-based monitors contain optical sensors that measure your beats either from the watchband or case back. A study conducted by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) has determined that chest-based monitors are more accurate than those on the wrist.

Having a successful workout isn't just about the amount of time you spend getting your body into shape — the intensity of the workout is also important. By using a heart rate monitor and compatible software, you can better pace yourself and speed up or slow down for optimal results.

Regardless of the type of heart rate monitor you select, each provides one key feature that's essential to successful workouts: the ability to track target zones. When achieved, these aerobic zones, which vary by age group, provide different results such as weight loss, cardiovascular health, and enhanced lung capacity.

Heart rate monitors can benefit anyone who wants to improve their health. However, there are ideally suited for walkers, joggers, runners, cyclists and triathletes. Those seeking weight loss or who are rehabilitating from an injury should also consider getting a monitor.