Definition:
A heart rate monitor tracks the body's level of exertion by measuring the heart's electrical activity. Before you exercise, calculate your target heart rate, then use the heart rate monitor to measure the intensity of your workout and adjust accordingly.
Most heart rate monitors include a strap that must be worn around the chest. The strap transmits data to a readout device (usually a wristwatch), which allows the user to view current heart rate. Some straps are also compatible with elliptical machines, treadmills, and the like. A heart rate monitor may also include other features such as features such as alarms, timers, clocks and stopwatches, calorie counters, and pre-fab workout programs.
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