In the box of reasons FOR buying another gadget instead of running with an app on your phone is the fact that even novice runners need to know their heart rate, pace and mileage. And for those who are ready to achieve goals and progress, they cannot do without a smart and sometimes speaking assistant.
Choosing a watch is almost like buying a car. We read reviews, consult with a friend, go to shops to feel. Marathon Academy takes the headache away from you and offers a complete watch selection guide. Enjoy!
First, let's figure out what features you need. There are a lot of them in watches, and the chosen model and its cost depend on your needs.
GPS. Thanks to it, the speed and distance are measured, the route track is drawn. If you happen to run in the woods and get lost, an advanced GPS watch will make the task of rescuers much easier. Also measures height.
heart rate monitor essential for runners of all skill levels. Without understanding your heart rate zone, it will not be possible to give an adequate load and understand the effectiveness of training. The watch comes with or without a chest strap, in which case you need to buy it separately. Modern models already come with a built-in LED sensor, it measures the pulse directly on the wrist. This allows you to measure during the day or in your sleep if the watch is not removed.
VO2max. Measurement of the maximum amount of oxygen consumed - an indicator of endurance. Usually the measurement is made in the laboratory, but sports watches have also learned to cope with it.
Recovery time. The device analyzes the indicators and gives a forecast of how much time is needed for rest and recovery so that the training is as effective as possible.
Calorie counter. A feature that came from fitness bracelets. The calories burned during the workout are counted.
Autopause- a useful feature for those who run down the street and stop at traffic lights. The tracker pauses your run.
Virtual partner(for solo runners). Creates the illusion of running with a partner who is running slightly faster than you.
Workout planner. Advanced watch models can make a plan for you depending on your goals. But it is better to consult with a live coach.
Synchronization with smartphone or computer. All gadgets have this feature, but manufacturers have different applications.
Watch weight. Pay attention to how comfortable you are to run with the device.
Battery. The battery capacity of different models is about the same, but the use of GPS and Bluetooth makes the watch sit faster. You don't want to be without a tracker for a marathon, do you?
Important: Heart rate monitors built into the watch (at least on top Garmin models) for a full-fledged interval training unsuitable. They have large delays in readings and a serious inaccuracy, up to 15 beats of a difference. Therefore, it is better to purchase a chest heart rate monitor separately, the same Garmin or Polar. The latter are a little cheaper and no worse.
But the main criterion when choosing a watch is the budget. Below we present the most popular models in three price categories. Prices are indicated in two versions: in Russia and from foreign sites. Official dealers in Russia have watches in stock and with a Russian guarantee. But the goods are much more expensive than if you buy in Europe / USA. You can order on trusted Western sites. Find a suitable design model in Moscow stores, and then place an order on one of these sites:
ebay.com
bike24.com
bike-discount.de
wiggle.ru
Despite the tangible difference in price, remember that when buying a watch from an official representative, you also receive warranty support and service. Whereas when ordering online, you will have to wait for delivery and you will receive only a worldwide guarantee.
So, checklist before buying:
WITH chest heart rate monitor(the clearest way to determine the pulse).
So that there is synchronization via Bluetooth (it is convenient to synchronize workouts with the application).
Within your budget.
Up to 10.000 rubles
Suunto SS015855000
They have the simplest functions for controlling heart rate with the transition to pulse zones, calorie consumption, and even provides real-time workout recommendations.
They have several color options if that matters to you.
In Russia - from 7,400 rubles
Polar M200
They have all the features for successful workouts: GPS, pedometer and total physical activity meter, sleep tracker, heart rate sensor. Completely waterproof and have interchangeable straps.
In Russia - from 6,150 rubles
Bike 24 - from 6,000 rubles
10.000-20.000 rubles
Garmin 35
The Garmin Forerunner 35 is the entry-level sports watch with GPS navigation, built-in heart rate monitor, activity tracker that tracks sleep and calories.
In Russia - from 7,900 rubles
Bike 24 - from 6,500 rubles
Suunto Spartan Trainer Wrist HR Black
A complete running and triathlon watch with built-in optical heart rate, power measurement (for running and cycling), navigation support, multisport features, extensive sport configuration and sleep tracking. Fully justify their cost.
In Russia - from 17,000 rubles
Bike 24 - from 11,000 rubles
Garmin 235
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is a great sports watch with GPS navigation, a built-in heart rate monitor, an activity tracker that tracks sleep and calories, and a built-in accelerometer to track distance and pace while you run. Designed to be worn 24 hours a day, this device won't miss the slightest detail in your activity. Branded software transmits notifications from a smartphone to the watch screen, and the number and colors of interchangeable straps make them suitable for both men and women.
In Russia - from 15,500 rubles
Above 20.000 rubles
Garmin 735XT HRM Run
Smart watches have revived the watch market, offering users a range of new and useful features. One such feature is a heart rate monitor, or heart rate monitor.
According to a study conducted by scientists at Stanford University and the Swedish School of Sports and Health, it was found that Apple Watch the lowest error in determining the accuracy of the user's heart rate.
The experiment was carried out in comparison with the stationary method - ECG. Despite the tolerance of +/- 5%, Apple's smartwatch showed a minimal deviation of only 2%, in contrast to the rest of the wearables participating in the experience.
One of the most important elements The Apple Watch Series 4 is a set of four heart rate sensors built into the back of the case. University of California (San Francisco) researchers determined that the Apple Watch was able to detect heart problems with up to 97% accuracy.
The built-in GPS system is used to measure pace, distance and speed in sports and cycling. But the main feature is waterproofing. The new model is water resistant up to 50 meters (5 ATM) and can be worn while showering and even swimming. And for runners, there's a special version of the Apple Watch Nike+ with some built-in Nike features.
Characteristics:
- AMOLED, 1.5″, 272x340 (290 ppi) and 1.65″, 312x390 (304 ppi)
- WiFi
- Bluetooth4.0LE
- waterproof 50 m (5 ATM), IPX7, can be used in the pool
- Light sensor
- battery life 18 h
- Compatibility: iOS only
Conclusion. Designed with sports and fitness in mind, Apple Watch Series 4 comes in a variety of sizes and colors to suit both women and men. They offer best heart rate monitor without a chest strap, which honestly got the first place in our top sports smartwatch with a heart rate monitor and a pedometer.
The price ranges from $269 to $699, offering various modifications and product design.
Video: Apple Watch Series 4
Garmin Fenix 5
Garmin Fenix 5, presented by the company in January 2017, is equipped with a whole package of functions, as well as optical sensors from Elevate, which are able to track almost all user actions.
The accuracy of the Garmin Fenix 5's heart rate monitoring has been verified through testing by an employee of the Androidauthority website. He compared the performance of the Fenix 5 heart rate monitor to the Wahoo TICKR X chest strap, which, in his opinion, is considered very reliable.
Please note that the Garmin optical heart rate monitor is not designed for use in the pool. It works great when exercising and doing outdoor sports.
During the 8 km run, Garmin recorded the maximum heartbeat 175 beats, when the TICKR X showed 182. Typically, the heart rate sensors on the watch during high-intensity workouts deviate by 5 beats per minute, although this does not happen as often and does not become problematic. In this workout, the Fenix 5 recorded an average heart rate of 152 and the Wahoo TICKR X recorded an average heart rate of 163, plus it took a while for the watch to register a heart rate in excess of 150 beats per minute, and the chest strap delivered readings almost immediately.
If you want more accurate results, you can use the Garmin Fenix 5 in combination with ANT+ or Bluetooth Smart heart rate sensors.
In terms of specifications, they include:
- 1.2" 240x240 color LCD non-touch (5S model has a screen resolution of 218x218)
- WiFi
- ANT+
- Bluetooth4.0LE
- battery life up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode (depending on settings), up to 24 hours in GPS mode and up to 100 hours in UltraTrac power saving mode
The new lineup, which includes the Fenix 5 and Fenix 5S models, offers 64MB of memory, where 54MB is available for use. It is worth noting the Fenix 5X model, which has 12 GB for installing maps, where you can navigate along the route.
Conclusion. The Garmin Fenix 5 bills itself as a running watch and makes your workout a pleasure. It can act as the best men's sports watch with heart rate monitor and pedometer.
The price varies from $600 to $850, depending on the model: F5, F5S or F5X. Learn more about this line.
Video: Garmin Phoenix 5
Polar M430 is an all-in-one all-in-one sports device that allows you to measure your heart rate on your wrist during training and running with location, and tracks your daily activity, steps, calories and sleep. Paired with the Polar Flow Server, the M430 turns into a trusted trainer that can provide personalized feedback, an adaptive training plan and live guidance for athletes at different stages of their training.
Polar M430 is equipped with performance monitoring features such as training guide, recovery analysis, vibration alert intervals and more.
This model can use a wrist-based heart rate monitor without a chest strap and offers 6 LED elements for optical heart rate measurement, built-in GPS and Bluetooth connectivity with a smartphone.
For a month, CardioCritic tested the Polar M430 alongside Suunto Spartan Sport HR and Garmin Edge 820 chest straps. The results were amazing. The difference in heart rate readings using chest straps and sports watches was practically not noticeable. The peaks and valleys of the Polar M430 chart follow the heart rate tracked with the chest strap with extreme accuracy.
TO technical specifications can be attributed:
- monochrome 1.4-inch screen with a resolution of 128x128
- WiFi
- GPS (SiRFInstantFix satellite communication technology)
- Bluetooth 4.1
- moisture protection 30 m (3 ATM)
- 8 MB memory
- vibration signal
- activity sensor
- 240 mAh battery with 8 hours of service with working sensors
Conclusion. Polar has created a solid contender to Garmin, a GPS and heart rate sports watch with essential runner features that confidently takes third place in the rankings. Thus, on this list, this is the best watch with a heart rate monitor without a chest strap.
The Polar M430 is priced at $229.
Video: Polar M430
Suunto Spartan Sport was launched in March 2017 as the ultimate multi-sport watch for sports that require speed, distance and heart rate tracking, including triathlon.
It's the ultimate heart rate watch, with 16 hours of training time and water resistance up to 100m, plus a variety of functions and training options for each of the 80 sports modes, allowing you to customize training performance to suit your personal needs.
They guarantee precision and comfort without the need for chest straps. However, to achieve exceptional heart rate accuracy, it can be paired with an external heart rate monitor via Bluetooth.
Sports watch with heart rate monitor and pedometer, Spartan Sport monitors your heartbeats 24/7 and is compatible with Suunto Smart sensor strap for heart rate tracking while swimming. In addition to positioning support, it is possible to add POI navigation waypoints.
Characteristics:
- color touch display with a resolution of 320x300
- GPS and GLONASS
- digital compass
- heart rate monitor
- pedometer
- moisture protection 100 m (10 ATM)
- compatible with iOS / Android and Suunto Movescount
- battery life 16 h
Conclusion. This device occupies the fourth place and can be attributed to one of the best watches for running with a heart rate monitor. After all, they use a top-notch heart rate sensor from Valencell, trusted by many leading brands, for the most accurate readings.
The Spartan Sport Wrist HR is on sale for $522.
Video: Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR
Sports smartwatch with heart rate monitor has optical sensors that can read heart rate, allowing athletes, and in particular runners, to monitor their health. However, until now, none of their smartwatch heart rate monitors measures heart rate as accurately as chest straps that fit snugly directly to the heart do.
If you have already purchased any of the above optical sensor watches, please share your experience in the comments.
Running is one of the most popular types sports. It is suitable for men and women, helps to lose excess weight and keep in shape. In the absence of contraindications, they can be practiced at any age. Everyone who chooses this sport has a common desire - to increase the effectiveness of training. A running watch will help with this task. You can buy these for both beginners and professionals - in modern models everyone will find the necessary functions.
Everything you need for an effective workout
How to evaluate the effectiveness of a runner's training? For many athletes, the distance traveled is one of the main criteria for evaluation. Modern sports watches for running can count traveled path accurate to tenths of a metre. It does not matter whether the lesson takes place in a stadium or in an open area.
Someone is used to assessing success in kilometers, and someone in the number of steps taken. A few years ago, athletes had to use a separate pedometer, but today this function is implemented in watches. The smart gadget will calculate how many steps the runner took during the workout and save the result for further statistics.
A timer and a stopwatch are two useful options that a running watch cannot do without. The timer will help you count down the required time for your workout. The stopwatch function is indispensable for short distance races.
Special features for demanding users
For those who are serious about their health, a running watch with a heart rate monitor will come in handy. Most models allow you to know the heart rate at any time. Professionals will like gadgets with the function of setting heart rate zones: the device constantly monitors the heartbeat and beeps if the athlete leaves the specified zone.
It's no secret that in the fight against overweight helps physical activity. Many choose running for weight loss. The clock in this case will be faithful assistant, which will count not only steps, but also “burnt” calories. It's always nice to see the result of your work in numbers, regardless of whether it's been 15 minutes of class or an hour of running. How many calories can you burn with this activity? It all depends on the individual parameters of height, weight and gender, many models provide for "smart" calorie counting, taking into account these indicators.
GPS navigation is a useful feature that characterizes sports watches today. Running can be carried out along a strictly defined track, and freely moving around the area. Some devices not only record the route traveled, but allow you to instantly share achievements on social networks for athletes.
Achieve your goals and set your personal records, and you can purchase the right gadget for you in the Watchsport store.
Wearable technology is increasingly included in the set of accessories that modern man uses in the course of his life. Although such devices are questioned in terms of their real usefulness, the increase in the army of fans of such gadgets gives reason to think otherwise. Actually, the set of their functions speaks for itself. As a rule, these are sports watches with a heart rate monitor and a pedometer, a tonometer and a whole range of auxiliary options. It remains only to get acquainted with the best representatives of the segment and determine the most suitable option.
Model Polar RCX5 SD RUN
It must be said right away that sports watches with the capabilities of “smart” wearable technology have a few differences and do not always have the same capabilities as their full-fledged intellectual counterparts. However, Polar is also showing remarkable success in this category, regularly surprising its fans. In this case, for example, multifunctional and technologically advanced "smart" watches are considered. A review of the model will reveal its strengths and weaknesses.
As already noted, this modification has an extensive list of options, including a heart rate monitor, a running sensor, etc. The kit includes a special textile chest strap that helps to record the necessary vital parameters of the body. Added to this is the presence of a GPS sensor, thanks to which the owner can navigate the terrain in the process of making long-distance races. In general, this is a good sports watch with a heart rate monitor and a pedometer, a tonometer and navigation capabilities, a feature of which is the relatively high accuracy of the calculated data.
Suunto Quest GPS model
This is a variant from a lesser-known but promising participant in the wearable gadgets market. In terms of functionality, the model can be put on a par with the development of Polar. In particular, sports watches from Suunto include a belt heart rate sensor, a GPS tracker and a USB adapter. This set is quite enough for tracking the distance traveled, registering speed limits and even laying routes.
Of course, special attention should be paid to the possibilities of monitoring the state of the body. In addition to basic tools like a heart rate monitor and a blood pressure monitor, the option of recording calories burned is offered. To visualize the dynamics of the results achieved, special graphs can be drawn up - this function is also provided by these sports watches. The instruction also recommends using the social component and, in particular, participating in training program provided on the manufacturer's website. All data will be processed automatically, providing the user with a clear picture of sports success.
Model Suunto M5
Another model from Suunto that deserves attention for the reason that it is somewhat of a basic version. sports watch-heart rate monitors. This means that, in addition to the heart rate sensor and the necessary means of maintaining performance, there is nothing in this model. What is the advantage of such an approach? Mainly in the possibility of independent formation of a list of functions suitable for a particular format of operation. That is, the owner himself equips the sports watch of this modification with the necessary sensors that will expand the capabilities of the gadget. On the one hand, this saves the user from the options already imposed in the main version, and on the other hand, it has a positive effect on the price tag, although you still have to pay extra for the necessary sensors.
Model Runsense SF-510F
If the previous version is offered as a platform for the further formation of optional content to your taste, then here, we can say, everything you need is provided in abundance. This is a classic sports watch with a heart rate monitor and a pedometer, a blood pressure monitor and a GPS module that will suit both a professional runner and an amateur. Again, there are also routing functions, and the ability to select the optimal "working" modes.
The peculiarity of this version is not in the functionality, but in the operational advantages of the device itself. The gadget is able to maintain performance for 30 hours, which is almost a record figure. Moreover, in the off state, the model will last almost 3 weeks. It turns out that in the form of SF-510F you can get a very practical and easy-to-use "smart" watch. which are presented below, will help to understand other operational subtleties that are important to consider when choosing a model.
Positive feedback about the models
As a rule, owners praise heart rate watches for the ability to obtain the necessary information about their own body in the process of playing sports. It should be noted that this part of the toolkit is not always considered as additional, since many users have medical indications for this kind of research. In a slightly different plane, purely sports metrological means, which are equipped with electronic sports watches with intellectual filling, are also positively evaluated. The same step meters, running speed and other tracking options are very convenient from the standpoint of monitoring your own sports results.
Negative Feedback
Still, the declared options do not always justify the expectations placed on them. First of all, it concerns the accuracy of measurements. Although manufacturers regularly increase this figure to minimize deviations from the actual data, it is not uncommon for owners to point out inconsistencies in the results from specialized devices. In addition, sports watches with a heart rate monitor and a pedometer, a blood pressure monitor and navigation system functions are not always easy to manage. The abundance of electronic tools and at the same time a minimum of controls do not mix well, and not every manufacturer manages to find an ergonomic solution for the interaction of the user and the "smart" filling.
Conclusion
One way or another, a huge range of heart rate watches with different capabilities and characteristics allows you to choose the best option for any interested person. True, for many, the question of the cost at which sports watches are sold is also important. The price in the initial segment can be approximately 5-7 thousand rubles. Of course, if you do not take into account frankly counterfeit products, which are available for 3 thousand rubles. The most functional, productive and stylish design solutions can cost 15-20 thousand rubles. These are models from companies like Polar and Casio.
News healthy lifestyle life - plans for every Monday and the promise that millions make to themselves before going to bed on Sunday. And in the morning, after the first one, with muscle pain, lethargy and apathetic fatigue, this decision takes the opposite turn. There is nothing good in such a way of life and there is neither desire nor necessity to lead it when it is so painful and not pleasant.
But it's all about the wrong organization sports training. To choose the intensity of the load and set the right pace so that the lesson brings not only benefits, but also pleasure - tasks that must be approached with all seriousness. In a world where digital technologies are firmly rooted in every field, sports are no exception. We bring to your attention an overview of men's and women's sports watches with a heart rate monitor, stopwatch, tonometer and pedometer.
What are sports accessories for?
During training, it is impossible to objectively assess the state of the body. Fatigue, increased heart rate and, as a result, pressure problems and general fatigue cause health problems. In this regard, it is recommended to go in for sports using special devices that are designed to monitor the state of the body during training.
Sports watches - a novelty in the world of gadgets perform all these functions. A heart rate monitor, a pedometer and a blood pressure monitor, which are built into such an accessory, effectively and accurately monitor all vital signs and inform their owner about it. Such a device allows:
- Set the right pace for the workout;
- Define optimal time for rest and its intervals;
- Calculate the duration of rest, which will fully restore strength.
The use of a heart rate monitor is to determine the level of fluctuations in the walls of blood vessels, which is individual for each person.
It is he who determines the moment when it is better to stop all physical activity.
The pedometer helps to track and control the distance traveled and draw up an individual load schedule, gradually increasing the mileage.
confirmed fact that 11,000 steps must be taken daily to maintain vitality and health. If the goal is to lose weight, then this figure should be increased to 13,000 - 16,000 per day.
And finally, a tonometer is a device for measuring blood pressure.
The sensor in the watch will measure the pressure in the largest artery in the body - the aorta, which is located closest to the heart and brain. With excessive physical exertion, this indicator determines the critical point when the activity should be urgently stopped in order to prevent the occurrence of a stroke or heart attack.
Criteria for choosing a sports watch
The range of sports accessories is so large that it is extremely difficult to decide on a device that will suit each individual lifestyle. When choosing a sports watch, consider the following features:
- Operating time - the more functions they perform, the more energy they spend, which means they require frequent and prolonged recharging;
- Synchronization - the ability to connect to mobile platforms and operating systems;
- Warning method - a sound signal that warns of the approach of a critical point. It is better if the watch is equipped with a vibration alert;
- The accuracy of the displayed data;
- Waterproof;
- impact resistance;
- Design.
The functionality of a sports watch is not limited to devices that measure steps, pulse and pressure. If you wish, you can purchase a watch that will record the history of training, keep track of calories burned, determine the "fat burning zone", as well as conduct a fitness test and determine own program training based on level physical training. It is worth remembering that a watch is only a mechanism, and the indicators that they give out are purely mathematical calculations based on numerical data.
Sports watch manufacturers
Among the huge number of manufacturers, the reputation of quality and functionality has earned:
Polar is a Finnish manufacturer that has been on the market for 30 years. Watches of this company are distinguished by relatively high cost and a wide range of functions. The initial cost of such watches is 130 USD.
Casio- versatility and innovation are the hallmarks of the brand's watches. It was this company that became the pioneer in the production of sports watches with a pedometer. The cost varies from $100. up to 450 USD
Beurer is a German manufacturer of sports watches. Depending on financial capabilities, you can purchase both the budget version of the PM18, which costs about 100 USD, and the more expensive and functional PM200, the price of which is 500 USD.
Suunto is a Finnish manufacturer whose sports watches are distinguished by their versatility and quality. One of the most expensive in its segment and the purchase will cost 200 USD.
Torneo- a Chinese company that produces very high quality sports products at an affordable price. Sports watch with basic set functions are estimated at 125 USD.
Suunto sports watch video review:
The choice of a sports watch with a heart rate monitor, a pedometer and a blood pressure monitor should be based on the width of the additional functionality. After all, sometimes basic functions are enough, and excesses will only increase the cost without adding a single gram of utility.
Basic rules of use
In order for the sports watch to correctly display the necessary data, you must follow the rules and operating instructions. For each model, individual recommendations have been developed, but there are also general ones for everyone.
The blood pressure is calculated by the sensor based on a manually entered baseline parameter.. These data must be updated regularly and entered with great care, because this will minimize the error in the readings.
Basic indicators are indicators that include data in a calm state and after physical activity. Please note that you need to perform the exercises that are listed in the instructions. When setting up a pedometer, the necessary parameters will be the average step length, body weight and age.
The principle of operation of a sports watch is reduced to the supply of impulses through the back cover, so it is important that it fits snugly against.
The hand must be necessarily left, only in this case one should expect reliable data.
Of course, you should not expect magical abilities from a sports watch by putting it in your pocket or wearing it over a thick sleeve.
